Derwent’s Alphacolor Soft Square Pastels in Char-Kole black are a niche product aimed at artists who need a reliable, deep black pastel in a square format. This set of 12 sticks is marketed for sketching, tonal work, and mixed media. After spending time with them, they prove to be a solid option for certain tasks, though they come with trade-offs that potential buyers should consider.
The first thing you notice is the shape. Square pastels offer a distinct advantage over round ones: you can use the edge for sharp lines and the flat side for broad strokes. Each stick measures approximately 2.5 inches long and 0.4 inches square, fitting comfortably in the hand. The Char-Kole formula is softer than traditional compressed charcoal but firmer than many oil pastels, striking a balance that works well for both detailed work and covering large areas quickly. The black is rich and opaque, laying down smoothly without excessive dust. In practice, these pastels are particularly useful for life drawing sessions where speed and expressiveness matter. The square edge allows for quick definition of features, while the flat side can block in shadows efficiently. They also work well for underdrawings in pastel paintings, providing a dark base that other colors can be layered over. However, they are not as blendable as some softer pastels; attempting to smudge them with a finger or tortillon yields limited results, and they tend to leave a slightly gritty texture on the paper. This can be an advantage for artists who want texture, but a drawback for those seeking smooth gradients.
One of the main limitations is the mess. Like most charcoal-based products, these pastels produce a fair amount of dust. Without fixative, the finished drawing remains susceptible to smudging. Even with fixative, some lightening occurs, though the deep black holds up reasonably well. The sticks are also relatively brittle; dropping one can easily cause it to snap. While this is common with soft pastels, it’s worth noting for those who are hard on their materials. Additionally, the set only includes black, so it’s not a standalone solution for color work. It’s best seen as a specialized tool rather than a complete pastel set.
In terms of composition, Alphacolor Char-Kole is a blend of pigment and binder that results in a soft, velvety feel. The pastels are non-toxic and conform to ASTM D-4236, which is standard for art materials. They are not lightfast in the same way as high-quality pigments, but for black, fading is less of a concern. The 12-pack offers a good quantity for the price, especially compared to individual sticks from premium brands. However, the lack of a protective case means you’ll need to store them in a container to prevent breakage and dust transfer.
Compared to other black pastels, such as Conte à Paris or General’s Charcoal, the Derwent Alphacolor sticks are softer and less dense. Conte sticks are harder and more suited to detailed line work, while General’s are oil-based and behave differently. The Alphacolor square shape is a unique feature that sets them apart from round competitors. For artists who prefer square pastels, this is a significant plus. However, if you’re used to the control of a harder pastel, these might feel too soft and crumbly.
Who is this for? It’s well-suited for intermediate to advanced artists who already have experience with pastels and charcoal. Beginners might find the softness and dustiness challenging to control, and the lack of a full color range limits its use for those just starting out. It’s also a good choice for artists who enjoy mixed media, as the black can be used alongside colored pencils, pastels, or even acrylics (though it may not adhere well to slick surfaces). Not ideal for those who need a precise, hard-edged drawing tool or for artists who prefer oil pastels, as the dry, powdery finish is quite different.
In summary, the Derwent Alphacolor Soft Square Pastels in Char-Kole black are a functional, affordable option for artists seeking a soft, square black pastel. They excel in expressive sketching and tonal work but come with the usual caveats of soft pastels: dust, fragility, and limited blendability. If you’re looking for a versatile black pastel that offers the unique benefits of a square shape, this set is worth considering. Just be prepared to handle them with care and invest in a good fixative.
