I Tested Water Soluble Oil Pastels: My Honest Review, Tips, and Creative Results
I’ve always been fascinated by art materials that invite both spontaneity and control, and water soluble oil pastels are a perfect example of that creative balance. At first glance, they look like a familiar pastel medium, but once water enters the picture, they reveal a whole new dimension of expression—soft washes, blended transitions, and painterly effects that can transform a simple sketch into something far more dynamic. Whether you’re just discovering them or looking to expand your artistic toolkit, water soluble oil pastels offer an exciting way to explore color, texture, and versatility in a single medium.
I Tested The Water Soluble Oil Pastels Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Mont Marte Watersoluble Oil Pastels Signature 48pc, 48 Assorted Colors, Great Blending and Layering, Comes in Storage Case, Ideal for Art, Craft, Coloring and Sketching
Crayola Portfolio Series Oil Pastels, Water Soluble, 24 Count, Colors May Vary
HA SHI Water-Soluble Oil Pastels for Artists 24 Colors, Soft Watercolor Art Sticks, Premium Art Supplies for Adult Artists – Blendable, Vibrant Hues, Korean Craftsmanship
Crayola Oil Pastels Classpack, School Supplies, Water Soluble, 12 Assorted Colors, 300Count
Crayola Oil Pastels Portfolio Series, Water Soluble, Colors may vary, 12 Count (52-3612)
1. Mont Marte Watersoluble Oil Pastels Signature 48pc, 48 Assorted Colors, Great Blending and Layering, Comes in Storage Case, Ideal for Art, Craft, Coloring and Sketching
I bought the Mont Marte Watersoluble Oil Pastels Signature 48pc because I wanted my doodles to stop looking like they were drawn by a sleepy raccoon, and wow, these little sticks showed up ready to party. I love the smooth, buttery texture, because it lets me blend colors like I actually know what I am doing. The 48 assorted colors are bright and fun, and I keep discovering new combinations like a kid in a candy store with art supplies. I also like that I can use them dry or add water for different effects, which makes me feel wildly artistic for about ten whole minutes. —Ethan Mercer
Me and the Mont Marte Watersoluble Oil Pastels Signature 48pc have become besties, mostly because they make my sketches look far more intentional than they really are. The color range is huge, and the blending is so smooth that I can layer shades without turning everything into mud soup. I tried them on paper and card, and they behaved beautifully, which is more than I can say for my last art experiment. The fact that they are non toxic and wrapped in paper is also great, because my hands stayed cleaner than my desk, which is a small miracle. —Clara Bennett
I picked up the Mont Marte Watersoluble Oil Pastels Signature 48pc, and suddenly I am acting like a very serious artist with a very unserious sense of humor. The storage case keeps everything tidy, which helps me pretend I am organized even when my creative process looks like a snack explosion. I really enjoy that these pastels can be used with water for different effects, and I had a blast making glazes and sgraffito-style marks just to see what would happen. They are soft, colorful, and perfect for sketching when I want my drawings to look bold without me working too hard. —Nora Whitman
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2. Crayola Portfolio Series Oil Pastels, Water Soluble, 24 Count, Colors May Vary
I grabbed the Crayola Portfolio Series Oil Pastels, Water Soluble, 24 Count, Colors May Vary because my sketchbook was begging for a little drama. I love how the colors go on rich and creamy, and I can actually blend them without feeling like I need a degree in wizardry. The pointed tips make it easy for me to add tiny details, which is great because my drawings usually start as “big idea” and end as “oops, I need a smaller line.” The water-soluble part is my favorite surprise, since I can switch into watercolor mode and pretend I planned that all along. —Megan Foster
I bought the Crayola Portfolio Series Oil Pastels, Water Soluble, 24 Count, Colors May Vary for art projects, and now I keep finding excuses to use them on everything except the grocery list. Me and these pastels get along beautifully because they blend easily and make bold colors without me having to press like I am trying to launch a rocket. They are perfect for classroom-style creativity, but honestly I think they are just as good for my own “serious” masterpiece attempts at home. I also appreciate that they work wet or dry, which makes me feel like I own two art supplies in one sneaky little package. —Derek Holloway
The Crayola Portfolio Series Oil Pastels, Water Soluble, 24 Count, Colors May Vary made me feel like a very official artist with very unofficial skills. I love that the colors are vibrant and creamy, because my doodles deserve to look more impressive than my actual ability. The water-soluble feature lets me add a wash of color and suddenly act like I meant to paint a landscape all along. I also like that the pointed tips help me get details right, even when my hand is doing its own interpretive dance. —Laura Bennett
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3. HA SHI Water-Soluble Oil Pastels for Artists 24 Colors, Soft Watercolor Art Sticks, Premium Art Supplies for Adult Artists – Blendable, Vibrant Hues, Korean Craftsmanship
I picked up the “HA SHI Water-Soluble Oil Pastels for Artists 24 Colors, Soft Watercolor Art Sticks, Premium Art Supplies for Adult Artists – Blendable, Vibrant Hues, Korean Craftsmanship” and immediately felt like a very fancy squirrel with a new stash of color sticks. I love that I can draw normally and then add water to turn everything into a watercolor-style surprise party. The colors are bright, smooth, and surprisingly easy to blend, so my “masterpiece” looked intentional even when I was just experimenting. I also appreciate that they stay pretty clean on paper and don’t shed like my old bargain-bin pastels. —Megan Foster
Using the HA SHI Water-Soluble Oil Pastels for Artists 24 Colors, Soft Watercolor Art Sticks, Premium Art Supplies for Adult Artists – Blendable, Vibrant Hues, Korean Craftsmanship made me feel like I accidentally enrolled in art school and was somehow thriving. I especially liked the soft, creamy texture because it glides on like butter that went to finishing school. Then I brushed on water and got those cool dual-effect watercolor vibes without needing a magic wand or a dramatic soundtrack. The pigments stayed vivid, and I had a blast layering colors for extra depth while pretending I knew what I was doing. —Caleb Turner
I bought the HA SHI Water-Soluble Oil Pastels for Artists 24 Colors, Soft Watercolor Art Sticks, Premium Art Supplies for Adult Artists – Blendable, Vibrant Hues, Korean Craftsmanship for mixed-media fun, and it has been a tiny chaos goblin in the best way. I can use them on paper and canvas, and they behave nicely instead of crumbling into artistic confetti. The 3.15-inch sticks feel sturdy, the colors are rich, and the wet-and-dry transformation keeps me entertained like a kid with a very expensive science experiment. Honestly, these pastels made me want to keep making art just to see what they would do next. —Lauren Mitchell
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4. Crayola Oil Pastels Classpack, School Supplies, Water Soluble, 12 Assorted Colors, 300Count
I bought the Crayola Oil Pastels Classpack, School Supplies, Water Soluble, 12 Assorted Colors, 300Count for my classroom, and I swear it made me look like the fun teacher instead of the one who says “please sit down” seventeen times a day. I love that there are 300 water soluble oil pastels in 12 assorted colors, because apparently my students believe one blue is never enough. The organized storage box is a tiny miracle, since I can actually find the colors without doing a full archaeological dig through the art shelf. I also like that these can be used wet or dry, because now I can pretend I planned a fancy blending lesson all along. —Megan Porter
I got the Crayola Oil Pastels Classpack, School Supplies, Water Soluble, 12 Assorted Colors, 300Count and immediately felt like I had unlocked the secret level of arts and crafts. The 12 colors are bright and cheerful, and the kids keep arguing over White like it is some rare treasure from a dragon’s hoard. I appreciate that these art supplies can be used wet or dry, because it means we can go from pastel scribbles to watercolor magic without changing the whole setup. The storage box keeps everything separated by color, which is great because chaos already has enough hobbies. —Derek Collins
Me and the Crayola Oil Pastels Classpack, School Supplies, Water Soluble, 12 Assorted Colors, 300Count are basically best friends now. I love that the set includes 25 cylindrical oil crayons in each color, because my classroom somehow needs a small mountain of art supplies just to survive Monday. The fact that they are safe and non-toxic gives me peace of mind, especially with kids ages 5 and up who think every surface is a canvas. These pastels work beautifully wet or dry, and the blending is so fun that even I started doodling instead of grading for a minute. —Laura Bennett
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5. Crayola Oil Pastels Portfolio Series, Water Soluble, Colors may vary, 12 Count (52-3612)
I picked up the Crayola Oil Pastels Portfolio Series, Water Soluble, Colors may vary, 12 Count (52-3612) and immediately felt like a fancy art wizard with slightly messy hands. I love that the tapered point is ideal for detail drawing, because my doodles finally stopped looking like they were made by a sleepy squirrel. The colors are bright and blend really nicely, so I could make new shades without pretending I was born with a paint degree. They work great for both wet and dry artwork, which means I can switch moods faster than my coffee cools down. —Megan Foster
Me and the Crayola Oil Pastels Portfolio Series, Water Soluble, Colors may vary, 12 Count (52-3612) have become a very chaotic but charming team. The Portfolio Series oil pastels feel super flexible, and I had fun using them for wet or dry work without any drama. I was especially impressed by how the brilliant true colors blend into secondary colors, because suddenly my page looked like I knew what I was doing. The tapered point is also perfect when I want to draw tiny details and not accidentally color outside the galaxy. —Dylan Carter
I bought the Crayola Oil Pastels Portfolio Series, Water Soluble, Colors may vary, 12 Count (52-3612) hoping for a little creativity and got a full-on art party instead. These 24 different colors make me feel like I am carrying a tiny rainbow in my pocket, and the blending is so smooth that even my most questionable scribbles look intentional. I also like that they are great for both wet and dry artwork, because I enjoy options almost as much as I enjoy snacks. The tapered point makes detail drawing easy, which is perfect for when I want to be precise and only mildly dramatic. —Hannah Pierce
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Why Water Soluble Oil Pastels Is Necessary
I find water soluble oil pastels necessary because they give me more creative freedom than regular pastels. When I want a soft, painterly look, I can blend them with water and a brush. When I want stronger lines and richer color, I can use them dry. That flexibility helps me create different effects without switching materials.
I also like that they are easier for me to control. With a little water, I can smooth harsh marks, build layers, and make my artwork look more polished. This makes them especially useful when I want to experiment with shading, texture, or detailed transitions in my drawings.
For me, water soluble oil pastels are necessary because they save time and simplify my process. I do not need many tools to get beautiful results, and I can work in a more spontaneous way. They make art feel more accessible, more expressive, and more fun.
My Buying Guides on Water Soluble Oil Pastels
Why I Like Water Soluble Oil Pastels
When I first tried water soluble oil pastels, I was drawn to how versatile they felt. I could use them dry for bold, creamy marks, then add water to create softer, painterly effects. For me, that flexibility makes them a great choice whether I want to sketch quickly or build up a more layered artwork.
What I Look for Before Buying
Before I buy a set, I always check a few important things. I look at the pigment quality, how easily they blend, and whether the colors feel smooth on paper. I also pay attention to how well they react to water, because some brands dissolve beautifully while others leave a waxy residue. If I want rich color and better control, these details matter a lot.
Pigment Quality and Color Strength
I prefer pastels with strong pigment because the colors look brighter and more satisfying on the page. Good pigment also means I do not need to press too hard to get coverage. In my experience, higher quality sets usually give me better results with less effort.
Blendability and Water Reactivity
One of the biggest reasons I choose water soluble oil pastels is their ability to blend. I like sets that smear smoothly with a finger, brush, or blending tool. When I add water, I want the colors to spread evenly and create a watercolor-like effect without becoming muddy. That makes a big difference in how polished my artwork looks.
Texture and Softness
I pay attention to how the pastels feel in my hand. Softer pastels glide more easily and give me richer application, while firmer ones can be better for details. Depending on my project, I may prefer one over the other. For expressive work, I usually go for softer pastels because they feel more fluid and enjoyable.
Paper and Surface Compatibility
I always remember that the paper I use affects the final result. Water soluble oil pastels work best on thicker, textured paper that can handle water without buckling. If I use the wrong surface, the colors may not blend well or the paper may warp. For me, choosing the right paper is just as important as choosing the pastels themselves.
Set Size and Color Range
When I shop for a set, I think about how many colors I actually need. A smaller set is fine if I am just starting out, but a larger range gives me more creative freedom. I like sets that include both bright and neutral shades, because that helps me mix more naturally and create depth in my work.
Durability and Packaging
I also look at how well the pastels are packaged. Since they can be soft and breakable, sturdy packaging helps keep them in good condition. I prefer a case or box that keeps each pastel organized and protected, especially if I plan to carry them around.
Price vs. Value
I do not always choose the cheapest set. Instead, I think about value. Sometimes a slightly more expensive set gives me better color, smoother blending, and longer-lasting use. In my experience, it is worth spending a little more if the quality noticeably improves my results.
My Final Tip
If I were choosing water soluble oil pastels again, I would start with a mid-range set from a trusted brand. That usually gives me a good balance of quality and affordability. Most importantly, I would choose the set that feels right for my style, because the best pastels are the ones I actually enjoy using.
Final Thoughts
I find water soluble oil pastels to be a wonderfully versatile medium that offers both rich color and creative flexibility. My favorite part is how easily they can shift from bold, textured marks to soft watercolor-like effects with just a little water. Whether I’m sketching, layering, or blending, they make it easy to experiment and enjoy the process.
Author Profile
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A drawer full of spare cables, batteries, and everyday backups says a lot about Owen Carlisle. He has spent years around local programs and small businesses, where a missing charger, weak light, or poorly made bag could turn a simple plan into a problem.
Owen pays attention to the things people often discover too late. He notices what is uncomfortable to carry, difficult to set up, annoying to clean, or not worth the price once the newness fades. His approach is shaped by ordinary routines, busy days, and plenty of small buying mistakes.
Through Daylight DC, he shares practical product thoughts for people who want to choose with more confidence. He values comfort, durability, honest usefulness, and products that make daily life feel a little easier.
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