Best paper for Pastels?

[xxbreezy]

I was recently asked to do a portrait in pastels. I usually only do pencil sketches when doing portraits. I have 2 different types of paper. One is your basic "flat"/no texture paper which I like because I do alot of blending. But find I use alot of pastel on this type of paper. I also have a lightly textured paper which does "hold" the pastels better but I seem to have trouble blending my colors. It could be that I should be using some sort of blending tool...I usually just use my fingers or a small sponge tip applicator. Was wondering if it could just be the paper? I will be going to Art Supply this coming weekend to pick up some supplies but just wanted some input on the best types of paper to use when working with pastels and what is the best tool to remove or erase with. Also, any tips on this transition from pencil to pastels for this portrait, would be deeply appreciated.

[beautifulbay]

I find that a textured paper is much better for pastels VS smooth paper, and yes, they blend into the texture better if you use a blending tortillion. If you don't have any available you can mimic one by using a toothpick or a Q-tip with the cotton end cut off and twist a small piece of paper towel or tissue to the end of it....the smaller the piece of paper, the finer your blending can be, which is why I like to use the toothpick, you can get really fine with that. Strathmore makes a nice drawing pad of textured paper for pastels with a variety of light colors in it.
Erasing...start of lightly on your pastels before you make anything too permanent, that way removing it is easier. Plastic erasers are good for pastels and so are kneeded rubber.
Going from pencils to pastels....practice! There is a big difference...pastels can be used like a paint or a pencil, offering much more than drawing. You can use rubbing alcohol on it to get a beautiful water colored appearance to it, it thins the pastel and blends it out nicely, also making the color more rich. Do a lot of practice with it for a while, get used to the dust, and have fun...by the way, softs are easier to work with than the oils.

[xxbreezy]

Thank you very much and what sounds like some pretty good tips!!! Will try them....

[beautifulbay]

your very welcome...remember to post some of your new work!
Have fun with the dust!

[xxbreezy]

Will do....I've done alot of pastels so I don't know why doing a portrait would seem so intimidating. I guess maybe because it is a personal request and just not something I'm doing for myself or whatever. I may start this portrait over as there are some rough spots from over-correcting on this type of textured paper. At any rate....maybe I will post its progression in the WIP section. Thanks again for all your help.
Linda

[DLKeur]

And now you've just hit on the secret. Do the portrait as IF you were doing it JUST for yourself, for fun. And use the paper you're used to.

Just my two cents.