Using fixatives with pastels

Pastel art’s fragile nature makes preservation a challenge. Fixatives can help safeguard your work from smudging and damage, ensuring your creations remain intact for years to come. This guide will walk you through the essentials of using fixatives effectively, including when to apply them,  how to choose the right product, and tips for achieving the  best results while maintaining the brilliance of your art.

This essential guide will cover:

What are fixatives?

Types of fixatives

Choosing a fixative 

Application process

Test before applying

Using workable fixative

Finishing with final fixative

Storage after fixing

Why should you use fixatives with pastels?

Fixatives, applied via spray canister, are used to help secure pastel artwork and prevent smudging, but they must be applied with care to maintain the texture and vibrancy of your work. They can be used part-way through a project and at the end. 

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Types of fixatives for pastels

There are two types of fixative;

Workable fixative: Allows you to continue layering pastels after application. It provides a light hold, making it ideal for building up multiple layers without disturbing previous ones.

Final fixative: Provides a stronger hold, meant for finishing a piece. Use this type when you are completely done with your artwork, as it makes it harder to add or adjust layers.

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Choosing a fixative for your pastel artwork 

Look for fixatives specifically made for pastels, as they’re formulated to minimise colour shifts. Consider using non-toxic or low-odour fixatives for indoor use, especially if you’re sensitive to strong smells.

Application process

Ventilation is key. Always apply fixative in a well-ventilated area or outdoors. Fixatives often contain solvents that can be harmful if inhaled.

Hold the can properly: Shake the can well before use and hold it about 12-18 inches (30-45cm) away from your artwork to ensure even coverage without drips.

Apply lightly: Use quick, sweeping motions across the artwork, applying a thin and even layer. It’s better to build up multiple light coats rather than a single heavy one to avoid darkening or altering the colours.

Using fixative with pastels

Test before applying

Test on a scrap piece: Before applying to your final artwork, test the fixative on a scrap piece of pastel work to see how it affects the colours and texture.

Check for changes: Some fixatives can darken or alter the appearance of pastels. Testing helps you understand how much it might change the final look of your piece.

Using workable fixative

If layering pastels, apply a workable fixative when you reach a point where the paper is losing its ability to hold more pastel. This will create a slightly textured surface, allowing for additional layers.

Finishing with final fixative

When you’re completely satisfied with your artwork, apply a final fixative to protect it during handling and framing.

Avoid over-spraying, as too much fixative can make the surface appear shiny or cause colours to become muted.

Storage after fixing

Let it dry completely: Allow your artwork to dry thoroughly after applying the fixative. This usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

Store flat: Store your fixed artwork flat, ideally with a sheet of glassine paper on top to further protect against smudging.

If you’re new to pastel art, don’t stop here! Explore our other beginner-friendly guides to learn about choosing the right pastels, blending techniques, framing your artwork, and keeping your creations safe. Each article is packed with tips to help you improve your skills and enjoy your pastel journey

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