Discover essential pastel safety tips for beginners. Learn how to handle, store, and work with pastels safely to protect your health while creating art.

Working with pastels is a rewarding creative experience, but it’s essential to practise safety, especially when using soft or chalk pastels that can release fine dust. Follow this guide to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment.

This essential guide will cover:

Workspace preparation

Personal protection

Handling pastels

Cleaning up

Material awareness

Safe storage

Workspace preparation for using pastels

Ventilation: Always work in a well-ventilated area to minimise inhalation of pastel dust. 
Open windows or use a fan  to circulate air.
Cleanable surfaces: Cover your workspace with plastic or a disposable cloth to make cleaning easier. Pastel dust can accumulate, so this helps in preventing it from spreading.

Personal protection when using pastels

Face mask: Use a dust mask or respirator, especially if you’re working with soft pastels or sanding pastel paper. It will protect your lungs from inhaling fine dust.
Gloves or barrier cream: Wearing latex or nitrile gloves can prevent skin contact with pigments. Alternatively, use barrier cream to protect your hands from potential irritation  or staining.

Handling pastels

Avoid blowing on your work: Blowing pastel dust can send it into the air where it’s more likely to be inhaled. Instead, tap or gently shake off excess dust into a trash bin or over a damp paper towel.
Damp cloth for cleaning: Keep a damp cloth handy to wipe your hands and surfaces regularly. It helps capture dust without sending it airborne.

Cleaning up after using pastels

Wet wipe clean-up: When cleaning your workspace, use wet wipes or a damp cloth to wipe surfaces. Avoid dry sweeping, as it stirs up dust.
Proper disposal: Dispose of pastel dust and wipes in a  sealed bag to prevent dust  from becoming airborne when thrown away.

Pastels: Material awareness

Check pigment labels: Some pastels contain pigments that may be toxic, like cadmium or cobalt. Always read labels and opt for non-toxic pastels if possible.
Use fixatives sparingly: Fixatives can help set your pastel work, but they often contain solvents. Use them in a well-ventilated space or outdoors and follow the instructions carefully.

Safe storage of pastels

Store in closed containers: 
Keep pastels in their original packaging or in airtight containers when not in use.  This prevents accidental spills  and minimizes dust exposure.

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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

• Beginner’s guide to pastels: Exploring different types and how to choose them
• Beginner’s guide to pigment and binder ratios in pastels
• Beginner’s guide to pastel paper: Types, textures and how to choose the right one
• Beginner’s guide to mastering key techniques in pastel art: Tips for stunning results

• Beginner’s guide to blending pastels: Easy techniques for smooth and vibrant artwork

• Beginner’s guide to correcting mistakes in pastel art: Tips and techniques
• Beginner’s guide to organizing your pastels: Tips for easy storage and access
• Pastel safety for beginners: Essential tips for safe and healthy art practices
• Beginner’s guide to using fixatives with pastels: Protect and preserve your artwork
• Pastel art and mindfulness for beginners: Relax, create, and reduce stress
• Beginner’s guide to framing pastel artwork: Tips to protect and display your pastel art

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