Assorted Color Pastel Paper Pad 18in x 24in - Textured 24-Sheet Pad

In this review of the Assorted Color Pastel Paper Pad, the bottom line is straightforward: this pad is best for artists who need a reliable, textured surface in a range of muted tones to make pastels sing. The review finds the pad ideal for pastel work because the paper weight and texture balance grip and blendability, letting colors layer without feeling either too toothy or too smooth. It suits both oil and soft pastels and offers value through 24 large-format sheets that reduce the need to tape multiple pieces together.

Key Features

• Assorted colors: Muted tones provide a versatile background that helps pastel pigments stand out while offering ready-made compositional options.
• 80 lb. / 118 gsm paper: A mid-weight sheet that supports layering of pastels without immediate buckling for most standard applications.
• Ideal texture: The surface has enough tooth to hold pastel particles yet is not so rough that blending becomes difficult.
• Large format: At 18in x 24in each sheet gives ample working area for larger studies and reduces the need to join smaller papers.
• Glue bound pad: The pad format keeps sheets together and allows easy tear-out while protecting unused pages.
• Acid free construction: Paper is designed to resist yellowing and maintain artwork over time.

Who It's For

This pad is aimed at students, hobbyists and practicing artists who work in pastels and want a consistent, textured surface in a range of ready-to-use colors. The large 18in x 24in sheets are useful for figure studies, landscapes and larger compositions where single-sheet continuity matters.

Artists who require heavyweight paper for heavy wet media or repeated intense erasing should look elsewhere, as this 80 lb. / 118 gsm stock is optimized for dry pastel techniques rather than heavy mixed-media or large washes.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good paper quality that complements both oil and soft pastels for vibrant results.
• Color variety of muted tones helps pigments pop and gives immediate background options.
• Generous sheet size is convenient for larger compositions and studio work.
• Acid free stock adds confidence for longer-term storage of finished pieces.

Cons

• At 80 lb. / 118 gsm the paper can show limitations with very heavy layering or prolonged heavy working for some users.
• Durability reports are mixed; some users find it holds up well while others experience issues with extensive reworking.

Specifications

Brand	Strathmore
Product	Assorted Color Pastel Paper Pad
Sheet size	18in x 24in
Sheet count	24 sheets per pad
Weight	80 lb. / 118 gsm
Binding	Glue bound pad
Acidity	Acid free

Our Verdict

The Assorted Color Pastel Paper Pad is a practical, value-minded choice for pastel artists who want large sheets with reliable texture and useful colors. It delivers strong paper quality and convenience for dry pastel techniques, making it a sensible buy for students and studio artists, though those needing heavier stock for intense reworking may prefer heavier paper.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this paper suitable for oil pastels?
Yes, the texture and weight work well with both oil and soft pastels, holding pigment without being overly coarse.

Are the sheets removable from the pad?
Yes, the glue bound format allows sheets to be torn out cleanly for framing or further work.

Will the paper yellow over time?
It is acid free, so it is designed to resist yellowing and preserve finished work longer than non-acid-free paper.