Sgraffito Technique with Oil Pastels

Sgraffito is a fun technique where two layers of different colors are applied one on top of another, and the drawing is done by scratching the surface to reveal the colors of the base layer. This can lead to interesting effects.

Choosing colors

Using black for the top layer is a pretty safe choice because any color that is revealed underneath will pop up. On the other hand, playing with different colors for both the base and the top layer can create more varied visuals. These colors can be opposite or close in the spectrum. 

Applying the base and top layers

Both the base layer and the top layer can be applied in a monochromatic or polychromatic fashion. Results are usually better when the base layer is done in brighter colors and the top layer in darker ones. The opposite is also possible, but the bright colors will often get a bit "dirty" because they will inevitably get mixed with the base layer.

Tools for scratching 

Scratching can be done with different tools, from the sharp ones, such as pins, which will create fine lines, to the broader ones, such as spatulas, where large surfaces can be removed at once. The movements you make while scratching will define the quality of the resulting texture.

Using the masking tape

Another interesting way to work with this technique is by using masking tape. The parts of the image whose color we want to leave visible are covered with tape, and the top layer is applied. This layer can be given a texture, and that can produce an interesting effect with the straight and sharp lines that will be created once the masking tape is removed.

Things to have in mind 

The more time you spend applying and smearing colors, the muddier they might become, which probably won't look too good. In addition, although corrections can be made by reapplying the top layer, even if you scratch them again, the bottom layer will lose some vividness and the drawing will become "murky," even though that might not be what you wish for.

Once finished, the drawing should be sprayed with a fixative because they tend to get smeared if rubbed against another surface. Placing a sheet of paper over each drawing is a good idea.