Side by Side Comparison of Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit and Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set

Comparison of Pastel Media

When it comes to exploring different pastel media, two popular options on the market are the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit and the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set. Both products offer unique qualities and characteristics that make them valuable tools for artists of all skill levels. While the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit focuses on providing a comprehensive set for beginners, the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set is a high-end option favored by professional artists worldwide.

Texture:

• The Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit features a range of pastels that have a creamy and smooth texture. These pastels are easy to work with and glide smoothly across paper, making it simple to create bold and delicate strokes with ease.
• In contrast, the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 pastels have a slightly harder texture. This allows for more precise and controlled application, making them suitable for detailed work and intricate designs.

Color Intensity:

• The pastels in the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit offer vibrant color intensity. The colors appear bold and lively on paper, allowing artists to create eye-catching artwork.
• In comparison, the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 pastels exhibit a rich and intense color saturation. These pastels provide deep and highly pigmented colors that remain vibrant even after blending.

Blendability:

• The pastels in the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit blend easily, allowing artists to create smooth color transitions and gradients. This makes it convenient for beginners to experiment with blending techniques and achieve desired effects.
• The Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 pastels also blend effortlessly, providing a seamless transition between colors. The wax-based formula allows for smooth blending and layering, perfect for creating depth and dimension in artwork.

Overall Performance:

• The Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit is an excellent choice for beginners and those looking to explore pastel media for the first time. The variety of colors and the user-friendly texture make it easy to create beautiful artwork.
• The Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set, on the other hand, is a professional-grade option known for its exceptional quality and versatility. The intense color pigments and blendability of these pastels make them a favorite among experienced artists.

Variety of Colors

The Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit offers a wide range of colors for artists to choose from. With a total of 40 different pastel shades included in the kit, artists have plenty of options to bring their creations to life. The colors provided range from soft pastels to vibrant hues, ensuring that there is a suitable shade for every project. The variety of colors allows artists to experiment with different tones and create depth and dimension in their artwork.

• The Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit includes 40 different pastel shades
• The colors range from soft pastels to vibrant hues
• Artists have a wide variety of options to choose from, allowing them to experiment with different tones and create depth in their artwork

In contrast, the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set 30/Pkg offers a more limited selection of colors. With 30 pastels included in the set, artists have fewer options to work with compared to the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit. However, the colors provided are known for their exceptional vibrancy. The Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 pastels produce rich, intense colors that are perfect for creating bold and vivid artwork. While the set may not offer as many colors as the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit, it still provides a comprehensive range of vibrant shades.

• The Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set 30/Pkg includes 30 pastels
• The colors are known for their exceptional vibrancy
• Artists can create bold and vivid artwork with the rich, intense colors provided

Ease of Use

The Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit offers a user-friendly experience for artists of all levels. The set includes a range of pastel colors in a compact and organized case, making it easy to find the desired color quickly. The pastels themselves are creamy and smooth, allowing for effortless application onto paper or other surfaces. This smoothness, combined with the soft texture of the pastels, makes them comfortable to hold and use for extended periods of time.

• The compact and organized case makes it easy to find desired colors.
• Smooth and creamy texture allows for effortless application.
• Pastels are comfortable to hold and use for extended periods of time.

When it comes to blending and layering, the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit proves to be quite versatile. The creamy consistency of the pastels allows for easy blending, enabling artists to create smooth transitions between colors. The layering process is also smooth, with the pastels adhering well to each other without smudging or smearing. This makes it simple to achieve the desired effects and add depth to artwork.

• Easy blending capability for smooth transitions between colors.
• Layering process is smooth without smudging or smearing.
• Allows for the creation of depth in artwork.

The overall experience of working with the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit is delightful. The set provides everything an artist needs to unleash their creativity. From the ease of application and blending to the comfortable and convenient case, using this kit is a seamless and enjoyable process. It allows artists to focus on their artwork without the distractions or frustrations that may come with other materials.

• Includes everything an artist needs for a seamless creative process.
• Eliminates distractions and frustrations during artwork.

Versatility of Application

The Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit is a versatile art kit that offers a wide range of applications for artists of all skill levels. One of the key features of this kit is its ability to be used on different surfaces. Whether you prefer working on paper, cardstock, or canvas, the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit provides a smooth and vibrant application. This versatility allows artists to explore different mediums and experiment with different textures.

When it comes to techniques, the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit does not disappoint. With its soft and blendable pastels, artists can easily achieve a variety of effects such as shading, highlighting, and smudging. Whether you want to create a subtle gradient or add depth and dimension to your artwork, these pastels are perfect for achieving the desired results.

In terms of compatibility with other artistic mediums, the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit can be used in conjunction with various materials. For instance, you can combine these pastels with watercolor paints to create unique mixed media artwork. Additionally, they can also be used alongside markers or pens to add fine details and intricate linework to your compositions.

• Can be used on different surfaces, including paper, cardstock, and canvas
• Soft and blendable, allowing for various techniques such as shading, highlighting, and smudging
• Compatible with other artistic mediums like watercolor paints and markers

Durability of Pastels

When it comes to the durability and resistance to breakage of pastels, it is essential to evaluate the sturdiness of the pastel sticks and whether they tend to crumble or become brittle over time. Let's compare the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit and the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set 30/Pkg in terms of their durability:

Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit:

The pastel sticks in the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit exhibit commendable durability. They are made with high-quality materials that ensure the sticks withstand moderate pressure and handling without breaking easily. You can confidently use these pastels for various projects without worrying about them crumbling or becoming brittle.

• The pastel sticks offer good resistance to breakage.
• They stay intact even when pressure is applied.
• The sticks have a solid and substantial feel in the hand.
• They are less prone to crumbling and are less likely to break apart during use.
• The durability of these pastels makes them suitable for both beginners and experienced artists.

Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set 30/Pkg:

The Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set is renowned for its exceptional quality and robustness. The pastel sticks in this set are designed to withstand considerable pressure and handling without breaking, ensuring they remain intact over time.

• The pastel sticks are highly durable and resistant to breakage.
• They are made with a high-quality wax formula that provides strength and longevity.
• These pastels have a solid construction that prevents them from crumbling or becoming brittle, even with frequent use.
• The sticks demonstrate excellent sturdiness and can withstand heavy pressure without breaking apart.
• Their durability makes them well-suited for professional artists and individuals who engage in regular pastel work.

Packaging and Portability

When it comes to the packaging of the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit, it is clear that attention has been paid to ensure the pastels are well-protected. The set comes in a sturdy cardboard box with a lid that securely holds the pastels in place. The box is durable and can withstand normal wear and tear, providing reliable protection for the pastels during transportation. However, it is worth noting that the box does not have individual compartments for each pastel, which may lead to them rubbing against each other and potentially causing some color transfer. Despite this, the packaging of the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit is of good quality and serves its purpose well.

In terms of storage and organization, the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit falls short. While the box itself can be used for storage, it does not offer any additional features such as dividers or trays to keep the pastels organized. This can be challenging when trying to find a specific color while working on a project. Furthermore, the lack of individual compartments or slots means that the pastels need to be laid flat inside the box, which can be time-consuming and may increase the risk of damage. Consequently, while the packaging of the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit provides adequate protection, it could be improved in terms of storage and organization.

• Sturdy cardboard box provides reliable protection
• No individual compartments may lead to color transfer
• Box can be used for storage but lacks organization features

On the other hand, the packaging of the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set 30/Pkg is of exceptional quality. The set comes in a sturdy metal tin with individual slots for each pastel. This not only offers excellent protection for the pastels but also prevents them from rubbing against each other. The metal tin is strong and durable, ensuring the pastels are safe during travel or while on the go. The attention to detail in the packaging of this set is commendable and contributes to its overall high-quality feel.

In terms of storage and organization, the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set excels. The individual slots in the metal tin allow for easy organization, with each pastel having its designated place. This makes it effortless to find the desired color when working on a project. Additionally, the pastels can be stored vertically in the tin, reducing the risk of damage and making them easily accessible. The packaging of the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set proves to be both practical and functional.

• Sturdy metal tin with individual slots for excellent protection
• Prevents pastels from rubbing against each other
• Allows for easy organization and accessibility

Suitability for Different Skill Levels

When it comes to the suitability for different skill levels, the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit and the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set 30/Pkg offer distinct experiences and features. Let's take a closer look at how they cater to beginners and experienced artists.

Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit:

• Beginner-Friendly: This craft kit is specifically designed for newcomers to pastel art. It provides step-by-step instructions and guidance to help beginners get started. The included guidebook offers clear explanations on various techniques, allowing beginners to gain confidence in their skills.
• Limited Variety: While the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit is beginner-friendly, it may not offer enough variety for experienced artists. The set includes a limited number of pastel colors and does not provide advanced techniques or challenges for artists who already have a solid foundation.

Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set 30/Pkg:

• Not Beginner-Friendly: Unlike the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit, the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set 30/Pkg does not provide explicit guidance or instructions for beginners. It assumes a certain level of knowledge and skill in pastel art. This set is best suited for artists who already have some experience and understanding of pastel techniques.
• Advanced Techniques and Variety: For experienced artists, the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 set offers a wide range of colors and advanced techniques. The water-soluble feature allows for additional versatility in creating different effects and textures. This set is ideal for artists looking to explore and experiment with various techniques, adding depth and complexity to their artwork.

Overall, the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit is perfect for beginners who want a comprehensive introduction to pastel art, providing clear instructions and guidance. On the other hand, the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set 30/Pkg caters to experienced artists, offering a wider range of colors and advanced techniques for those looking to further develop their skills. Both products have their own strengths and are suitable for different skill levels. Depending on your level of experience and artistic goals, you can choose the kit that best suits your needs.

Artistic Effects

When it comes to unleashing your creativity and achieving stunning artistic effects, the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit and the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set 30/Pkg are both excellent choices. Let's explore the different techniques that can be utilized with each set to create gradients, texture, blending, and layering.

Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit:

• Gradients: With the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit, you can easily create smooth gradients by blending different colors together. Simply layer the pastels from the lightest to the darkest shade and gently blend them with your fingers or a blending stump for a seamless transition.
• Texture: This craft kit allows you to incorporate texture into your artwork by applying the pastels in different ways. Try using the side of the pastel to create broad strokes with a rough texture, or use the tip for finer details and a smoother finish.
• Blending: Achieving beautiful blends of colors is effortless with the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit. Use your fingers or a blending stump to softly blend the colors together, creating a harmonious and smooth transition.
• Layering: Layering is key to adding depth and dimension to your artwork, and the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit makes it a breeze. Start with a base layer of color and gradually build up your artwork by adding additional layers of pastel. This technique allows you to create rich and vibrant artworks.

Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set 30/Pkg:

• Gradients: The Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set offers a unique advantage when it comes to creating gradients. These water-soluble pastels can be blended with water to create smooth and vibrant gradients. Apply different colors to your paper and use a wet brush or sponge to blend them together.
• Texture: Texture can be easily added to your artwork with the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set. Experiment with applying the pastels with varying pressure to create different textures. Additionally, you can also scratch or scrape the surface of the pastels for a more textured effect.
• Blending: The water-soluble nature of these pastels makes blending effortless. Apply the pastels onto your paper, and then use a wet brush to blend the colors together. This technique allows for seamless blending and the creation of unique color variations.
• Layering: Layering with the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set is a versatile technique. Apply one layer of pastel, and once it is dry, add another layer on top. The wax texture of the pastels allows the layers to blend and mix beautifully.

Longevity and Fading

When it comes to the longevity and resistance to fading of colors, the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit and the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set 30/Pkg exhibit different characteristics. Let's take a closer look at how these two products perform over time:

Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit:

The colors in this craft kit are known for maintaining their vibrancy over time. The pigments used in the pastels are of high quality and have a good lightfastness rating. This means that the colors are less likely to fade when exposed to light. To preserve the artwork created with the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit, it is recommended to:

• Avoid displaying the artwork in direct sunlight or under bright artificial lights for extended periods.
• Use a fixative spray specifically designed for pastels to protect the artwork from smudging and fading.
• Store the finished artwork in a protective sleeve or cover to prevent dust accumulation.

Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set 30/Pkg:

The colors in this pastel set also maintain their vibrancy over time. However, it's important to note that the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 pastels are water-soluble. This means that they can be easily blended with water to create watercolor-like effects. While this adds versatility to the artwork, it also introduces a potential risk of color fading if the artwork gets wet. To prevent fading and preserve the artwork:

• Avoid exposing the artwork to excessive moisture or water.
• Consider using a fixative spray to protect the artwork if a watercolor effect has been achieved through blending with water.
• Store the finished artwork in a dry environment to prevent any moisture-related damage.

Overall Customer Satisfaction

When it comes to overall customer satisfaction, both the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit and the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set 30/Pkg have received positive feedback from various sources. Let's delve into the common praises and criticisms of each product to provide an objective assessment.

Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit:

• The Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit has received high praise for its wide range of color options, allowing artists to create vibrant and colorful artwork.

Customers have also appreciated the user-friendly nature of the kit, particularly the inclusion of step-by-step instructions and tips for beginners, making it an excellent choice for those new to pastel art.

Additionally, the kit's durability and organization have been commended, with customers highlighting the sturdy packaging and compartments that make it easy to keep the pastels organized and prevent them from breaking.

• However, some users have found the color payoff of the pastels to be inconsistent, with some colors appearing less vibrant or prone to smudging.

Another common criticism is the size of the pastel sticks, with some customers finding them to be too small, making it difficult to create detailed artwork.

Despite these criticisms, the Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit has generally garnered positive reviews, particularly for its accessibility for beginners and overall quality.

Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set 30/Pkg:

• The Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set has been praised for its exceptional color quality and intensity.

Customers value the versatility of these pastels, as they can be used both wet and dry, allowing artists to achieve a wide range of effects.

The pastels' water solubility has been especially commended, with customers appreciating the ease of blending and creating watercolor-like washes with these pastels.

• However, some customers have mentioned issues with the pastels breaking easily, which can be frustrating, particularly when working on intricate artwork.

Another criticism raised by a few users is the higher price point of the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set compared to other pastel options on the market.

Despite these criticisms, the Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set is generally well-regarded for its exceptional color quality and versatility.

• The Klutz Pastel Studio Craft Kit has a wide range of colors and is user-friendly, making it suitable for beginners.
• The Caran d'Ache NeoColor 2 Water Soluble Wax Pastel Set offers exceptional color quality and versatility with its water solubility, allowing for a variety of effects.
• Some users have found the color payoff of the Klutz pastels to be inconsistent, while others have experienced issues with the Caran d'Ache pastels breaking easily.
• The Klutz kit's organization and durability have been praised, whereas the Caran d'Ache set's higher price point has been a point of criticism for some customers.