The debate rages on amongst artists – Are Faber Castell Polychromos Pencils Oil Based? Understanding the composition of your art supplies is crucial for achieving desired effects and ensuring the longevity of your artwork. The answer might surprise you and will definitely inform your artistic choices.
The Truth About Polychromos: Oil vs. Wax
So, are Faber Castell Polychromos pencils oil based? The simple answer is no. While they are often mistakenly referred to as oil-based, Faber Castell Polychromos pencils are actually wax-based pencils. However, their unique formulation sets them apart from other wax-based colored pencils. They are created with high-quality pigments, wax and binders. This specialized blend contributes to the pencil’s distinct characteristics, including its smooth laydown, vibrant color, and exceptional lightfastness. Their oil-like blending capability makes many assume they are oil based, but this is not the case.
The confusion often stems from the pencil’s exceptional blending capabilities. Unlike some wax-based pencils that can become chalky or crumbly when layered, Polychromos pencils blend seamlessly, almost like oil paints. This is due to the higher ratio of pigments and the specific type of waxes used in their production. Consider these characteristics that contribute to the confusion:
- Smooth, buttery application
- Easy to blend and layer
- Rich, vibrant colors
- Excellent lightfastness
Faber Castell themselves describe the Polychromos pencils as having an “oil-based feel” due to their permanence and resistance to smudging once applied. This feeling, combined with their blendability, leads many artists to believe they are oil based. This durability comes from the high pigment load and binders that create a strong bond with the paper.
To summarize, here’s a comparison:
| Feature | Faber Castell Polychromos |
|---|---|
| Base | Wax |
| Feel | Oil-like |
| Blending | Excellent |
Want to learn more straight from the source? Visit the official Faber Castell website or consult their product information sheets for detailed specifications on the composition and characteristics of Polychromos colored pencils.