Hi Matthew,
I also looked into pastels a number of months ago. After gleaning everything on the forum, I realized that a simple 18 stick set would do nothing but frustrate me. The investment for a large set is indeed significant. I seem to remember that Daniel Green packages Unison's in his set, and if you're interested in those check out
Jackson's Art Supplies . They're in London, but their prices (including shipping) are significantly cheaper for Unison's than any other place I've seen in the US.
The Daniel Green portrait videos are very popular, and I hesitate to recommend this, but you could also check your local library system. Then when you're making lots of money you could go back and buy one of his videos for another library, or student, that doesn't yet have one.
Holly
Hybrid Mode
