How Good Are Unison Soft Pastels for Artists?

Unison soft pastels are widely regarded as one of the finest pastel ranges available, prized by professional artists for their exceptionally rich pigment and buttery texture. Unison soft pastels are handmade in small batches, which allows for a higher concentration of pigment than most mass-produced alternatives a key reason serious artists consistently reach for them.

What sets Unison apart is the texture. Each pastel has a soft, slightly crumbly consistency that glides across paper with minimal pressure, allowing for smooth layering and effortless blending. This softness also means colour builds quickly, giving artists more control over depth and intensity without overworking the surface.

The pigment quality itself is another major factor. Unison pastels are known for their lightfastness, meaning finished artwork retains its vibrancy over time rather than fading an important consideration for pieces intended for framing or exhibition. The colour range is also broad and thoughtfully curated, with subtle tonal variations that make it easier to capture natural light, skin tones, and landscape detail accurately.

At Cowling & Wilcox, Unison pastels are available individually or in curated sets, giving artists the flexibility to test specific shades before committing to a larger collection.

For working artists, the investment often pays off through fewer pastels needed per piece, since the pigment covers well and blends efficiently. Beginners exploring soft pastels for the first time may find the price point steep, but many find the performance difference noticeable enough to justify starting with a small set rather than a budget alternative.

Overall, Unison soft pastels hold up to their reputation — rich pigment, smooth application, and long-lasting colour make them a genuinely strong choice for artists serious about their craft.

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