I have recently started using pastel pencils, but could someone advise me please which is the best paper to use with them.

Hi Maureen! Pastel Papers are generally in the eye of the beholder! Most artists will have their favourite paper, but perhaps the best approach would be what you are looking to paint with your Pastel Pencils; Ingres is a very good pastel paper for general use, as is Hahnemuhle or Clarefontaine.
If you want stunning results for, say, animal (furry) portraits, then look at Hahnemuhle Velour paper.

Good luck with your Pastels!

Very best wishes,

Steve Williams
RSC Wigan / Warrington / St Helens

Hi Steve,

I will certainly try the Hahnemuhle velour paper as I do animal portraits. Many thanks for your advice.

Regards,

Maureen

Hi Maureen,

Another pastel paper is Clairfontaine Pastelmat. I find it lovely to work with and it doesnt require any fixative, worth a try.

Best wishes
Jill

Hi, I love using Hannemuhle for animal paintings, but only have it in white at present so have just ordered some Somerset Velvet pastel paper and will report on that when it arrives and I have tried it.