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The short answer: Oil pastels crack or smear primarily due to improper surface preparation, heavy layering without a fixative, or using low-quality pastels. The fix is simple: use a textured paper, apply thin layers, and seal your work with a fixative. In most cases, you can resolve the issue in under five minutes.
Oil pastels are a blend of pigment, oil, and wax. Their creamy texture makes them easy to blend, but that same softness can lead to issues. Cracking often happens when you apply too much pastel in one layer, creating a thick film that dries and contracts, pulling apart. Smearing, on the other hand, occurs when the pastel hasn’t set properly, especially in warm conditions or if you use too much binder. Another culprit is working on a smooth surface like regular printer paper, which doesn’t grip the pastel, causing it to slide and smear.
If you’re facing cracking, the fastest fix is to gently scrape off the excess pastel with a palette knife or a flat edge, then reapply a thinner layer. For smearing, place a piece of parchment paper over the area and run a warm (not hot) iron over it. This melts the wax slightly, allowing it to set. Alternatively, you can pop the artwork in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to harden the pastel. These methods work wonders on minor issues.
To avoid these problems altogether, start with the right paper. Look for a heavy, textured paper like pastel paper, watercolor paper, or even a canvas with a gesso coating. The texture gives the pastel something to grip. When applying, build up your colors in thin layers, letting each layer dry or set before adding the next. Avoid overworking an area because that can disturb the layers and cause smudging. Also, consider using a dedicated oil pastel primer or a light coat of acrylic medium to create a barrier.
Not all oil pastels are created equal. Student-grade pastels tend to have more wax and less pigment, making them harder and more prone to cracking. Artist-grade pastels, like those from Sennelier or Holbein, have a softer, creamier consistency that layers beautifully without cracking. If you’re on a budget, there are decent mid-range options. When shopping, check reviews and look for pastels that mention “high pigment load” or “professional grade.” For a curated list of top-rated oil pastels, check out this buying guide.
Once your masterpiece is finished, proper storage prevents future smearing. Keep your artwork flat in a portfolio or between sheets of glassine paper. Avoid stacking heavy objects on top, as pressure can cause smudging. If you need to roll it, use a large diameter tube and roll with the artwork facing out. For protection, apply a fixative designed for oil pastels. Spray in a well-ventilated area, holding the can about 30 cm away, and apply several light coats rather than one heavy one.
The paper you choose is the single biggest factor in preventing cracks and smears. Oil pastels need a surface with enough tooth to grab the wax and oil, but not so rough that it shreds the stick. Look for papers labeled specifically for pastel, such as Canson Mi-Teintes, Fabriano Tiziano, or Strathmore 400 Series Pastel. These have a textured finish that holds multiple layers without flaking. Watercolor paper with a cold press or rough finish also works well, especially if you apply a coat of pastel primer or acrylic gesso first. Avoid hot press watercolor paper, Bristol board, or any smooth paper, as these offer almost no grip. If you are unsure, test a small corner: rub a pastel across it. If the color skips or slides, the paper is too smooth. For larger works, consider mounting the paper to a rigid board to prevent buckling, which can cause cracks as the paper flexes.
Many cracking and smearing problems come from how you apply the pastel, not just the materials. The key is to build up color gradually. Start with light pressure and thin layers, then increase pressure only after the initial layer has set. Avoid scrubbing back and forth in one spot, as this heats the wax and makes it smear. Instead, use short, controlled strokes. For blending, use a tortillon, a colour shaper, or your finger, but clean them often to avoid transferring dark colors into light areas. If you need to blend large areas, try a dry brush or a piece of felt. Another common mistake is using solvents like turpentine or baby oil to blend. These can break down the binder and lead to cracking as they evaporate. If you must use a solvent, use it sparingly and only on a test piece first. Finally, always work from light to dark, as dark pastels can contaminate lighter ones and create muddy smears.
Fixative is a controversial topic among oil pastel artists. Some use it religiously, while others avoid it entirely. The truth is that fixative can help prevent smearing, but it can also dull colors and change the texture. For oil pastels, a workable fixative or a dedicated oil pastel fixative is best. Apply it in thin, even coats from about 30 cm away, and let each coat dry completely before adding another. Do not soak the paper, as this can cause the pastel to run. If you plan to frame the artwork under glass, you may not need fixative at all, as the glass will protect it from smudges. However, if you are storing unframed work or handling it frequently, a light coat of fixative is wise. Never use hairspray, as it contains alcohol and other ingredients that can react with the oil pastels and cause discoloration or stickiness. Also, avoid applying fixative to a thick layer of pastel, as it can cause the surface to crack as it dries. Instead, apply fixative between layers if you are building up a lot of pastel.
Cracking can still occur if you apply too thick a layer or use a heat source to blend, which can dry out the binder. Try thinning your layers and avoid using solvents unless you’re experienced.
Hairspray is not recommended because it contains alcohol and other chemicals that might react with the oil pastels, causing discoloration or stickiness. Invest in a proper art fixative.
For fresh smudges, use a kneaded eraser to gently lift the pastel. For stubborn marks, let the artwork dry completely and then carefully scrape with a craft knife, then reapply color if needed.
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