What pastel colors?

[Lacey Lewis]

I hope this is the appropriate forum for this question! (My best guess, anyhow.)

I have a set of 45 Rembrandt pastels, portrait colors. A couple softer brands have been reccomended to me, but I am wondering about what other colors in any brand I might want to buy as open stock. I am not in a position to buy lots of expensive sets right now, and was hoping that someone could give me some reccomendations for 'must have' colors or ones that they find very useful so that I can keep my eye out for them as I am looking into expanding my collection.

Upon request, I will list the colors that are included in my set so that you know what I already have.

[Molly Sherrick Phifer]

Here are a couple of great threads discussing colors, etc. of pastels. Unfortunately, I really got into some of the ideas in these and now have a HUGE collection of pastels. My favorites are Great American, Windsor & Newton, and Unison.

Sharon's suggestions
Chris Saper's thoughts

Colors I can't live without:
W&N - Burnt Sienna all values
W&N - Windsor Orange all values
W&N - Raw Umber all values
Great American - Dead Head (i.e. caput mortuum)
Great American - Dragon's Blood
I love the Unisons and have a full set, but can never remember favorite colors because of the naming (numbering) system.

The best thing would be to find a local place that has some open stock so you can see them. It can be expensive and disappointing to purchase sets.

Have fun, but be very careful. Pastels are addictive. Should be a controlled substance .

[Lacey Lewis]

Thanks a lot, Molly! This is just what I was looking for. Should've figured it would already be in the palette section.