I complied a list of my top 3 favorite brands of oil pastels and soft pastels. Pastels can get pretty pricey when shopping for artist grade materials, however there are plenty of student grade options that produce fabulous results for a fraction of the price. Do you have a favorite brand of oil pastel or soft pastel? Let me know in the comments!

1. Sakura Cray-Pas Expressionist Oil Pastels - set of 50/$24
2. Caran d'Ache Neopastels - set of 12/$30
3. Van Gogh Oil Pastels - set of 12/$19

1. Blick Studio Pastel Sets - set of 48/$17
​2. Derwent Academy Soft Pastels - set of 24/$17
3. Faber-Castell Goldfaber Studio Soft Pastels - set of 72/$29

When it comes to watercolor pencils there are a lot of different brands out there, which can make it difficult to decide what to purchase. Below I have compiled a list of 5 brands that are of quality and are also affordable. I usually will try to shop sales too, for example I have used a 40% off coupon at Michael's to purchase a tin of Prismacolor Watercolor pencils.  The most affordable option on the list is the triangular watercolor pencil by Staedtler, which comes in a pack of 24 for around $14.50.  When deciding on a set, think about the amount of pencils you get for your money. A set of 24 Prismacolors do provide most colors you'll need, but Arteza's set of 72 gives you a lot more options. Do you have a favorite brand of watercolor pencils? Let me know in the comments!