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A fine art paper pad tailored for pastel techniques, built to accept many pigment layers while avoiding saturation, Clairefontaine Pastelmat Pastel Card Pad. The adherent surface lets artists push energetic strokes and subtle blending with confidence. Is this pad the right choice for serious pastel practice and mixed-technique experiments?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Surface Texture: Soft, adherent Pastelmat surface that accepts multiple layers of pigment
- • Best for: Dry pastel artists who layer, blend and require surface grip
- • Not ideal for: Users seeking a very abrasive sanded ground or ultra-velvety paper
Soft, adherent surface accepts repeated pastel layers without saturation. The glued block contains 12 sheets in assorted shades, designed for easy detachment.
Deeper Colour and Texture – with the soft, adherent Pastelmat surface
The Pastelmat surface is engineered to hold pigment, allowing multiple layers without saturation and without the need for fixative. The slightly toothy yet compliant finish takes both energetic strokes and fine shadings.
Artists can build richer colours and subtle gradients, useful for portraiture and textured landscapes while avoiding blotchy buildup.
Reliable Mixed-Media Support – thanks to 360gsm heavyweight card
A 360gsm support gives structural strength, and the paper retains its grain when wet or gummed, so wet techniques and alcohol do not damage the gripping surface. The board-like weight keeps the sheet flat during handling.
Work that combines dry pastel with occasional wet blending or alcohol-based solvents stays predictable, reducing the risk of warping or surface breakdown.
Clean Handling and Protection – with glued block and crystal spacers
The pad is glue-bound for secure storage, and a crystal paper spacer sits between each sheet to prevent rubbing and smudging. The glued finish enables sheets to be detached cleanly when required.
Drawings stay protected while stored, and individual sheets come away neatly for framing or mounting, keeping finished pieces in better condition.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Clairefontaine Pastelmat Pastel Card Pad
- 360gsm Heavyweight Card – Maintains shape under heavy layering and mixed techniques
- Wet-Technique Compatible Surface – Keeps grain when wet or gummed, ideal for mixed media
- Crystal Paper Spacers – Protect each sheet from smudging during storage and transport
- Acid-Free Neutral pH – Preserves drawings for long-term archival stability and framing
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Pastel paper pad
- Paper Weight: 360gsm
- Format / Size: 24 x 30 cm
- Sheets: 12 sheets, glue-bound block
- Shades included: White, sienna, brown, anthracite (3 sheets each)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this paper suitable for dry pastel techniques?
A: Yes, the paper is specifically formulated for dry pastel, allowing energetic strokes and delicate shadings while accepting multiple layers of pigment.
Q: Can I use water or alcohol on the surface?
A: Yes, the surface supports wet techniques and alcohol without affecting the grain or gripping surface, and it retains its properties once wet or gummed.
Q: How many sheets and which sizes and colours are included?
A: The block contains 12 sheets in a 24 x 30 cm format, with four shades (white, sienna, brown and anthracite), and a crystal paper spacer between each sheet.
🏆 Our Verdict
Perfect for dedicated pastel artists who build layers and explore mixed techniques. The combination of a heavyweight 360gsm support and the Pastelmat surface accepts many pigment layers while retaining grain, and acid-free construction helps preserve work over time. The pad’s durable materials and protective spacers make it a practical, long-lasting choice for serious practice and finished pieces.
