Clairefontaine Pastelmat Card Sheets are specialist pastel paper engineered to accept many pigment layers while remaining stable. Artists get confident, expressive results thanks to a soft, adherent surface that supports both energetic strokes and subtle shading. Is the heavier, archival card the right choice for everyday sketching or for committed pastel work?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Surface Texture: Soft, adherent surface that accepts multiple pigment layers without saturation
- • Best for: Dry pastel artists, coloured pencil users and mixed-media painters seeking strong pigment hold
- • Not ideal for: Those who prefer ultra-smooth glossy paper or photographic printing
360gsm acid-free card designed for pastels and mixed techniques. The surface grips pigment while remaining neither abrasive nor velvety.
Layering and Blend Control – with a soft, adherent surface
Surface formulation creates micro-tooth that holds pigment layers without rapid saturation and without requiring a fixative. The paper is neither abrasive like sandpaper nor plush like velvet, so pastels and pencils sit on the tooth rather than burying into fibres.
Allow many layers of pastel and pencil for deep, vibrant colour and smooth gradations. Energetic strokes and the faintest shadings both respond reliably.
Wet-Media Compatibility – with heavy 360gsm card stock
360gsm weight gives substantial backing that tolerates wet techniques and alcohol-based media while keeping the grain intact. Product notes state that gumming or wetting does not affect the gripping surface.
Use water-based washes, gummed approaches or alcohol markers without losing texture or grip. Mixed-media workflows stay workable and predictable.
Archival Stability – thanks to acid-free, neutral pH construction
Acid-free, neutral pH composition reduces the risk of acid-related deterioration over time and suits preservation of finished drawings. The card format and weight aid long-term handling and mounting.
Expect better long-term preservation compared with non-archival papers, making finished pieces suitable for framing and storage. Heavyweight support also aids presentation and handling.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Clairefontaine Pastelmat Card Sheets
- 360gsm heavyweight card – withstands wet applications and heavy layering reliably
- Acid-free, neutral pH – reduces risk of discoloration and supports archival storage
- Monochrome dark grey sheets – enhances mid-tone contrast and speeds up colour decisions
- Pack of 5 large sheets – provides several full-size canvases for studies or finished pieces
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Pastel and mixed-media card
- Material / Weight: 360gsm card stock
- Size: 24 x 32 cm
- Sheets per pack: 5 sheets
- Colour: Dark grey monochrome
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can these sheets be used with wet techniques like water or gummed washes?
A: Yes. Product information confirms the sheets support wet techniques and alcohol while retaining the paper's grain and gripping surface.
Q: Are these sheets archival and suitable for keeping finished work long term?
A: Yes. The card is acid-free with a neutral pH, which helps preserve drawings over time.
Q: Will coloured pencils and many pastel layers hold on this surface?
A: Yes. Reviews and product notes report excellent pigment hold, accepting many layers of pastel and coloured pencil without saturation.
🏆 Our Verdict
Artists who work in pastels, coloured pencil or mixed media will find these sheets well suited to layered, expressive work. The key selling point is a specially formulated 360gsm, acid-free surface that grips pigment while remaining compatible with wet techniques. While more substantial than sketching papers, the archival construction and versatility make the sheets a sound long-term investment for committed work.
