Caran d'Ache Neocolor II Aquarelle Pastels - Buy at Dick Blick

When it comes to high-quality art supplies, Caran d’Ache Neocolor II Aquarelle Artists' Pastels stand out as a favorite among professional artists, hobbyists, and art enthusiasts. These versatile water-soluble pastels combine the vibrancy of traditional crayons with the flexibility of watercolor, offering endless creative possibilities.
What Are Caran d'Ache Neocolor II Aquarelle Pastels?
Caran d’Ache Neocolor II is a line of water-soluble wax pastels created by the Swiss brand Caran d’Ache. Known for their vibrant colors, smooth application, and exceptional quality, these pastels are ideal for both dry and wet techniques. Unlike traditional pastels, Neocolor II combines the richness of wax crayons with the flexibility of watercolor paints, allowing you to create striking effects with minimal effort.
Key Features of Neocolor II Pastels
- Vivid Color Range: With over 80 colors available, the Neocolor II collection offers an impressive spectrum of hues, from bright primaries to soft pastels and deep earth tones.
- Water-Soluble: Transform your dry pastel strokes into watercolor-like washes by simply adding water with a brush.
- High Pigment Concentration: The pastels deliver rich, opaque colors that work beautifully on various surfaces like paper, wood, and even canvas.
- Durability: These pastels are designed to be long-lasting and resist breakage.
- Non-Toxic: Safe for artists of all ages.

How to Use Caran d'Ache Neocolor II Pastels
Dry Application
Use them like traditional crayons for bold, vibrant marks.
Blending
Layer colors and blend them with your fingers for smooth transitions.
Watercolor Effects
Apply the pastel to your surface, then brush over it with water to create fluid, dreamy washes.
Mixed Media
Combine with other mediums like pencils, ink, or acrylics for unique textures and effects.
Who Are These Pastels For?
Neocolor II pastels cater to a wide range of users:
- Professional Artists: Ideal for creating detailed illustrations, mixed media projects, or vibrant landscapes.
- Hobbyists: Perfect for adult coloring books, card-making, or journaling.
- Students and Beginners: Easy to use and forgiving for experimenting with techniques.

Caran d’Ache: A Trusted Brand
Established in 1915, Caran d’Ache is synonymous with Swiss precision and quality. The brand is renowned for its dedication to craftsmanship and innovation, producing art supplies that cater to the highest standards. Learn more about the company’s history.
Available Sets and Pricing
Neocolor II pastels are available in individual sticks or pre-arranged sets. Sets range from small 10-color packs to comprehensive 84-color assortments. Prices vary depending on the size of the set, but they reflect the premium quality and performance these pastels offer.
- Starter Set: Great for beginners, these smaller sets are affordable and include essential colors.
- Professional Set: Larger sets with a full color range, ideal for serious artists.
You can purchase these pastels exclusively from Dick Blick for competitive pricing and reliable service.

Why Choose Neocolor II?
If you’re looking for a versatile, high-quality medium that bridges the gap between crayons and watercolors, Neocolor II is an excellent choice. Their superior performance, extensive color range, and ease of use make them a worthwhile investment for anyone passionate about art.
Tips for Buying and Caring for Your Pastels
- Start Small: Begin with a smaller set to familiarize yourself with the medium.
- Store Properly: Keep the pastels in their original tin or a protective case to prevent damage.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to mix techniques and explore new ways of using these pastels.
Final Thoughts
Caran d'Ache Neocolor II Aquarelle Artists' Pastels are a game-changer for anyone seeking creative flexibility and professional-quality results. Whether you’re crafting detailed illustrations, experimenting with mixed media, or simply enjoying the meditative act of coloring, these pastels are sure to delight.
Ready to bring your artistic vision to life? Explore and purchase the vibrant world of Neocolor II exclusively at Dick Blick.
FAQs
1. Are Caran d’Ache Neocolor II pastels suitable for beginners?
Yes, these pastels are beginner-friendly. They’re easy to use and versatile, making them ideal for learning different techniques.
2. Can I use Neocolor II pastels on surfaces other than paper?
Absolutely! These pastels work well on wood, canvas, and even fabric, making them suitable for a variety of projects.
3. Are Neocolor II pastels safe for kids?
Yes, they are non-toxic and safe for artists of all ages, but supervision is recommended for younger children.
4. Where can I buy Caran d’Ache Neocolor II pastels?
You can purchase them exclusively from Dick Blick, which offers competitive pricing and excellent customer service.