5 useful techniques use in Pastel Nagomi

Pastel Nagomi Art is a soft and healing form of expression originally from Japan. Using just your fingers, soft pastels, and a few simple tools, it offers a peaceful way to express emotions and connect with your inner self.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through five essential techniques that will help you create your own calming and beautiful Pastel Nagomi artwork. Whether you’re a curious beginner or someone who’s already discovered the joy of pastels, these tips will help guide and inspire your creative journey.

1. Finger Blending

This is the core of Pastel Nagomi Art. By using your fingers to apply and blend the pastels, you can create soft, cloud-like effects that are both soothing to look at and relaxing to create.
Tip: Use light pressure for a soft effect and layer colors gradually.

2. Gradation (Color Fading)

Gradation, or smooth color fading, gives your art a calming flow and sense of depth. It’s commonly used for skies, auras, or horizon lines in Nagomi art.
Tip: Layer soft colors like peach, blue, or lavender for peaceful, glowing effects.

3. Negative Space Drawing

This technique involves coloring around a shape instead of inside it, allowing the shape to emerge naturally from the untouched areas of the paper. It’s a wonderful way to create silhouettes or symbols with deep emotional meaning.
Tip: Torn paper edges give a more organic, handmade feel to your negative space.

4. Masking and Stenciling

Stencils help you create clean shapes and outlines while maintaining the dreamy softness of the background. This technique is great for hearts, stars, animals, or spiritual symbols.
Tip: You can create your own stencils using paper or plastic sheets.

5. Fixing for Preservation

Once your artwork is complete, applying a fixative helps protect the delicate pastel surface from smudging or fading over time. This finishing technique locks in your soft gradients and gentle textures while maintaining the translucent beauty of Nagomi Art.
Tip: Use a light, misting spray motion from a distance to avoid altering the colors or soft edges.

At our studio, we love guiding others in discovering the relaxing and reflective nature of Nagomi. Whether you’re looking to unwind, connect with your inner self, or just have fun with colors, we invite you to join us and create from the heart.