How I Use Kyoto Color Pastels in My Watercolor Art
I first discovered Kyoto Color Soft Pastels when a friend gifted me a set for my birthday. I had never worked with pastels before, so I was curious to see how they could fit into my art practice.
Handmade in small batches, Kyoto Color Pastels come in bright, vibrant hues that capture the magical light of Kyoto City. They're crafted by Gondola, a fourth-generation, family-owned company — which makes using them feel even more special.
I use these pastels in two main ways:
- As a flat background color
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As a base layer or underpainting for watercolor designs
Let’s dive into a few of my favorite techniques!
Technique 1: Watercolor + Pastel Backgrounds
In this series of painted plants and cacti, I started by sketching the plants in pencil, outlining them with a black fine liner, and then painting with watercolor. Once dry, I filled in the background using Kyoto Color Pastels.
Because these pastels are short in length, I recommend using the side of the pastel to gently swipe on color. Then, blend with a cotton bud or dry paintbrush to smooth out the area and get into smaller spaces.
Tip: There will be pastel dust! I suggest wearing a mask while working. To clean up, I take my sketchbook over the trash and gently shake off the excess.
This is a quick and simple way to add a vibrant background to your watercolor artwork.
Technique 2: Layered Pastel Base + Watercolor Details
For the black watercolor tulips on a pink background, I used a layering technique:
- First, I applied a light pink pastel base
- I blended the color using a tissue, letting some of the white sketchbook paper peek through
- Then I added a deeper pink shade on top
Once the background was ready, I painted the tulips using black watercolor pan paint. To finish, I added a delicate gold outline using a gel pen. The contrast is striking and makes the florals pop!
Technique 3: Pastel & Watercolor Floral Experiment
This next floral piece was a true experiment — and I’m so glad I took the creative risk!
I began by drawing circular, overlapping flower-like shapes with different colored Kyoto Color Pastels. After brushing off the pastel residue into the trash, I smudged the colors lightly with a tissue.
Next, I painted the flowers and leaves with watercolor. Once dry, I added vein details to the leaves using a darker green soft pastel. As a final touch, I embellished one of the flowers with a gold gel pen.
I could totally see this style on greeting cards or packaging!
Now it’s your turn!
How will you incorporate Kyoto Color Pastels into your next creation?
Tag me on Instagram @DivineNY — I’d love to see what you make!