Questions & Answers

Can I purchase extra lids and storage jars?

Yes, extra lids and storage jars can be purchased from your PanPastel retailer: RETAIL

Can I use my fingers to blend / apply PanPastel Colors?

The color payoff is reduced when using fingers to apply PanPastel Colors instead of using Sofft tools. Also, for any artists’ medium it is always best to avoid using fingers when there is a tool, such as Sofft Tools, that can do the job better!

Should PanPastel Color lids be replaced every time I stop painting?

It is not necessary to “close” the pans every time you finish painting. As with pastel sticks, you can simply leave the colors “open” in the studio, until you resume painting. Many painters love this aspect of painting with PanPastel Colors, so much more convenient than tubes of paint.

It is, of course, good studio practice, as with pastel sticks, to store the colors “closed” when not in use. The unique design of the pans and jars means that the tools and colors can be stored in a clean and organized manner quickly and easily.

What is the best way to clean off my Sofft Knife Covers?

By wiping left to right, (rather than up and down) to remove excess color on a paper towel, the cover will stay in place and will not get dragged off by the towel.

What makes Sofft sponge so special?

The sponge material used is unique to Sofft. We developed the formulations specifically for use with artists’ colors, and to ensure durability. They really do load and release the color perfectly for art applications.

PanPastel Colors are LOADED with artists’ pigments, and are used on many different surfaces. Requiring a very different type of artist’s sponge than has ever existed previously i.e. Sofft sponge. (Unlike cosmetic sponges, which are intended for use with colors that have very little pigment and are for very limited application on a special, gentle surface - the skin).

The shapes and sizes of Sofft Tools were developed for the marks that artists make. So for example, the knives and sponge bar shapes are based on brush shapes – round, flat, oval (filbert), pointed.

Our semi-absorbent material means that each Sofft sponge holds and releases liquid (water-based) mediums such as acrylics, water colors etc, giving controlled unique effects.

Sofft sponges can be used on a broad selection of surfaces, even with “toothy” surfaces such as Colourfix papers. Obviously, the more abrasive the surface the shorter the life of the sponge.

Finally, Sofft sponges are inexpensive and can be washed and re-used several times.

 

Hints & Tips

Tip: Don’t create un-necessary dust

One of the features artists love about PanPastel Colors is the low dust characteristic. However, it should be noted that it isn’t necessary to wipe the pan over and over to try to get more color on the Sofft Tool as this will only end up creating excess dust (& waste) on the pan. And as the colors are very richly pigmented, intense colors can be achieved as desired by layering them.

We advise swiping the Sofft Tool over the PanPastel surface 2 or 3 times to pick up the right amount of color. Then re-loading the tool as required.

Many questions about our products can be answered immediately by visiting our TECHNIQUES pages. However if you do have a question please