Pentel PHN12CP Oil Pastel Set Review: Unleash Your Inner Artist!

Pentel PHN12CP Oil Pastel Set Review: Are These the Right Pastels for You?

Are you looking to explore the vibrant world of oil pastels? The Pentel PHN12CP Oil Pastel Set with Carrying Case offers a convenient and affordable entry point. This 12-color set promises rich pigmentation and smooth application, all housed in a handy carrying case. But does it live up to the hype? In this comprehensive review, we'll delve into the features, pros, cons, and overall value of the Pentel PHN12CP, helping you decide if it's the right art supply for your creative endeavors.

For beginners venturing into oil pastels, or for experienced artists looking for a portable set for sketching and plein air painting, the Pentel PHN12CP presents an interesting option. Its blendability and vibrant colors are often praised, making it a popular choice among students and hobbyists. However, oil pastels can be messy, and some find the texture and application challenging. Let's explore whether these Pentel pastels mitigate these common issues.

Key Features of the Pentel PHN12CP Oil Pastel Set

Here's a quick rundown of the key features that make the Pentel PHN12CP oil pastel set stand out:

• • 12 Vibrant Colors: The set includes a carefully selected range of 12 colors, offering a good starting point for a variety of subjects and artistic styles.
• • Smooth and Blendable: These oil pastels are designed for smooth application and easy blending, allowing you to create subtle gradations and rich color mixtures.
• • Carrying Case Included: The included carrying case makes it easy to store and transport your pastels, keeping them organized and protected.
• • Rich Pigmentation: Pentel claims that these pastels offer rich pigmentation, delivering intense and vibrant colors on paper.
• • Student-Grade Quality: These are designed to be student grade; designed for artists learning and practicing the art of Oil Pastels.

Pros: The Advantages of the Pentel PHN12CP Oil Pastel Set

• • Excellent Color Payoff: The colors are surprisingly vibrant and offer good coverage. Even with a limited palette of 12, you can achieve a wide range of hues through blending.
• • Smooth Application and Blendability: These pastels glide smoothly on paper and blend easily, making them ideal for creating gradients and subtle color transitions. This is a HUGE benefit for new users!
• • Convenient Carrying Case: The included carrying case is a major plus. It keeps the pastels organized and makes them easy to transport, which is perfect for travel or outdoor sketching.
• • Affordable Price Point: At around $26, this set offers excellent value for money, making it a great entry-level option for beginners or budget-conscious artists. Especially great for the learning artist!
• • Great for Underpainting: Because of their blendability, the pentel pastels can be spread evenly to create a solid base for other drawing/painting materials.

Cons: The Drawbacks of the Pentel PHN12CP Oil Pastel Set

• • Limited Color Selection: While the 12 colors are a good starting point, experienced artists may find the limited palette restrictive. Compared to larger sets from brands like Sennelier or Caran d'Ache, the color range is considerably smaller.
• • Can be a little waxy: Some users find these pastels to be a little waxy, which can affect blending performance. A higher-quality pastel will feel less waxy and more buttery.

Who Should Buy the Pentel PHN12CP Oil Pastel Set?

The Pentel PHN12CP Oil Pastel Set is ideally suited for a few key user groups:

• • Beginners and Students: This set is perfect for those just starting out with oil pastels. The affordable price and ease of use make it a great way to experiment and learn the basics without breaking the bank. It’s a low-risk investment for exploring a new medium. Students especially will find them effective for color studies and basic drawing exercises.
• • Hobbyists and Casual Artists: If you enjoy sketching and drawing as a hobby, this set offers a convenient and portable option for creating colorful artwork on the go. The carrying case makes it easy to bring your pastels with you wherever you go, allowing you to capture inspiration whenever it strikes.
• • Artists Seeking a Budget-Friendly Option: While not professional-grade, the Pentel PHN12CP provides a good balance of quality and affordability. It's a great option for artists who want to experiment with oil pastels without committing to a more expensive set from brands like Mungyo Gallery or Prismacolor Premier.

Conclusion: Price, Performance, and Overall Recommendation

The Pentel PHN12CP Oil Pastel Set offers a fantastic entry point into the world of oil pastels. Its vibrant colors, smooth application, and convenient carrying case make it a worthwhile purchase for beginners, students, and hobbyists. While the limited color selection and slightly waxy texture might be drawbacks for experienced artists, the overall value and affordability of this set are hard to beat.

Ultimately, the Pentel PHN12CP stands out as a stellar, budget-friendly entry into oil pastels. Consider investing in this set if you are starting or just desire a set for on-the-go art. Just remember to have plenty of paper towels handy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

A: Oil pastels are generally considered permanent, but they can be easily smudged if not protected. Consider using a fixative spray to protect your artwork.

A: Yes, you can use them on a variety of papers, but thicker, textured paper is recommended for best results. Watercolor paper or pastel paper works well.

A: Use paper towels or a soft cloth to wipe off excess pastel from your hands and surfaces. Mineral spirits or turpentine can be used to remove stubborn stains, but always test on an inconspicuous area first.

A: Pentel generally adheres to safety standards. Check the packaging for specific safety information and certifications.