water soluble crayon sketch by Steve Morris

Simple scene but very effective. Smashing. Steve did you use the watersoluble crayons?

Sorry I just noticed you did use them. Didn't think of blending with fingers and I use pastel a fair bit!

Thanks Jeannette, i find that blending hard with finger tips creates enough friction to warm the wax allowing it to blend like an oil pastel, you can use a hair dryer to warm the surface of the painting too and use them almost like a 'low heat' encaustic medium, but use the hairdryer carefully or you'll end up with a slick mess. Popping the work in the fridge for a few mins will re-harden any over softened areas.....Steve

Like this... and am looking for a dry media... might give these a try...

I like the atmosphere you have created here, with use of subtle tones and good aerial perspective. Very impressive. I have some neocolour crayons but havent managed anything half as effective as this. Clever you.

I shall certainly try these the moment I can afford them - very attractive and effective painting, strong and appealing colour.