Why I Swear by General Multi Pastel Chalk 12 Sticks for My Artwork: An Expert’s Personal Experience
When I first discovered the General Multi Pastel Chalk 12 Sticks, I was immediately drawn to their vibrant colors and the endless creative possibilities they offered. Whether you’re an artist experimenting with new mediums or someone who simply loves to add a splash of color to your projects, these pastel chalks have a unique charm that inspires expression and creativity. There’s something truly satisfying about the texture and blendability of these sticks, making them a favorite tool for both detailed work and bold, sweeping strokes. In this article, I want to share what makes these pastel chalks stand out and why they might just become your new go-to art supply.
I Tried The General Multi Pastel Chalk 12 Sticks Myself And Here Are My Honest Recommendations

General Pencil 4400-12A General’s Pastel Chalk Pencils, 12 Colors, Multicolor, 7 x 1/4 x 1/4 in

General Pencil 1296499 Multi-Pastel Oil Free Square Compressed Chalk Stick, Pack of 12
1. General Pencil 94012ABP Multi Pastel Compressed Chalk Sticks, 12-Pack

When I first came across the General Pencil 94012ABP Multi Pastel Compressed Chalk Sticks, 12-Pack, I immediately recognized its potential to elevate my artwork, especially in the realm of drawing and pastel work. What really stood out to me was how these chalk sticks are specifically designed to bring out the best in my drawings. The quality and richness of the colors are essential when working with pastels, and having a set that focuses on earth, portrait, and skin tones is incredibly valuable for anyone who enjoys creating realistic and nuanced artwork.
The inclusion of 12 chalk sticks offers a great variety within the palette, making it easier to blend and layer colors to achieve depth and subtlety in shading. This is especially important for portrait artists like me who want to capture the delicate variations in skin tones and natural earth hues. The fact that these are compressed chalk sticks means they are more durable and less dusty compared to traditional soft pastels, which enhances the overall experience by reducing mess and making application smoother and more controlled.
Another point I appreciate is that these chalk sticks are made in the USA, which often implies a level of quality control and craftsmanship that I trust. Knowing the origin of the product gives me confidence in its consistency and reliability. The compact packaging, with dimensions of just 1.0 inches in height, length, and width, makes it very convenient to carry around, whether I am working in a studio or sketching outdoors. This portability factor is a big plus for artists who are always on the go and need their tools to be easily accessible without compromising on quality.
To give a clearer picture of what this product offers, here’s a simple table that highlights the key features and benefits
Feature Benefit 12 Chalk Sticks Provides a versatile range of colors for detailed and layered artwork Earth, Portrait, and Skin Tones Ideal for realistic drawings, especially portraits and natural scenes Compressed Chalk Durable, less dusty, and smoother application compared to soft pastels Made in USA Ensures quality craftsmanship and reliable performance Compact Packaging (1x1x1 inches) Highly portable and easy to store or carry
if you are an artist who values quality, versatility, and convenience in your pastel tools, the General Pencil 94012ABP Multi Pastel Compressed Chalk Sticks are definitely worth considering. They strike a great balance between professional-grade performance and practical usability. For me, investing in this set means having a reliable companion that can help bring my creative visions to life with subtlety and vibrancy. If you are looking to enhance your pastel drawing experience, this 12-pack is a smart choice that won’t disappoint.
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2. General Pencil 4400-12A General’s Pastel Chalk Pencils, 12 Colors, Multicolor, 7 x 1/4 x 1/4 in

When I first came across the General Pencil 4400-12A General’s Pastel Chalk Pencils, I was immediately intrigued by their reputation and unique qualities. Knowing that these pencils are crafted in the United States by General’s, a brand renowned for quality and reliability, gave me confidence in their performance. The fact that each pencil carries its own natural characteristics adds a distinctive charm and authenticity to the art created with them, which is something I personally value as an artist seeking originality in my work.
One of the standout features for me is the smooth, pigment-rich formula of these pastel chalk pencils. From my experience, this makes them incredibly versatile and enjoyable to use for a variety of artistic techniques. Whether I’m chalking, lettering, creating outlines, shading, rouging, or adding aging effects, these pencils deliver consistent and vibrant results. The softness combined with strong pigmentation allows me to blend colors easily while maintaining control over fine details. This balance is often hard to find in pastel products, making these pencils a real asset for anyone looking to experiment with texture and color layering.
Another important aspect I appreciate is the acid-free and oil-free composition of these pencils. As someone who cares about the longevity and archival quality of my artwork, knowing that these pencils are artist-grade and archival quality gives me peace of mind. It means my creations will not deteriorate or discolor over time, which is crucial for preserving my artistic expressions or professional pieces. This feature alone makes these pencils a worthwhile investment for serious hobbyists and professional artists alike.
The inclusion of 12 beautiful pastel shades expands the creative possibilities. The colors are soft yet vibrant, perfect for subtle highlights or more pronounced pastel effects. Having a sharpener included in the set also shows thoughtful design, ensuring that I can maintain a fine point for detailed work without needing to purchase additional accessories. This makes the set not only convenient but also user-friendly, especially for artists who like to keep their tools in one place.
Overall, I find the General Pencil 4400-12A Pastel Chalk Pencils to be an excellent choice for anyone passionate about pastel work, lettering, or mixed media art. Their quality, variety of shades, and archival properties combine to offer a product that supports creativity while ensuring durability. If you are looking to enhance your artistic toolkit with reliable, high-quality pastel pencils that provide vibrant and lasting results, I would definitely recommend giving this set a try. The investment in these pencils could elevate your work and inspire new creative techniques.
Feature Benefit Brand General’s Trusted quality and craftsmanship from a reputable US manufacturer Manufactured in the USA Ensures high production standards and supports local industry Smooth, pigment-rich formula Allows for versatile use including chalking, lettering, shading, and aging effects with vibrant color payoff Acid-free and oil-free Protects artwork from deterioration, guaranteeing archival quality Includes 12 pastel shades Offers a broad color palette for diverse artistic expression Sharpener included Convenience for maintaining fine points and detailed work without extra purchases
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3. GENERAL’S MultiPastel Compressed Chalk Sticks, 4 Pack, Earthtones

When I first came across the GENERAL’S MultiPastel Compressed Chalk Sticks in the 4 Pack Earthtones set, I was immediately drawn to the quality and color selection. As someone who enjoys fine art drawing, especially working with pastels, I understand how important it is to have smooth, vibrant colors that blend well and offer versatility. These chalk sticks deliver on that promise with their rich, earthy tones that bring warmth and depth to any artwork.
One of the standout features for me is the compressed nature of these pastel chalks. Being compressed means they have a denser pigment concentration compared to soft pastels, resulting in more intense colors and less dust. This makes them easier to work with, especially for detailed work and layering. The size of each stick (0.25 x 0.25 x 2.75 inches) feels just right in hand—comfortable to hold and control, allowing for precision without sacrificing ease of use.
Another aspect I appreciate is the smoothness of these chalks. The “extra smooth” texture means that the application is buttery and consistent, which is crucial when blending or building up color gradients in fine art pieces. The earth tone palette included in this pack provides versatile options—ranging from warm browns to muted greens and soft ochres—that can suit landscapes, portraits, or abstract work beautifully. It’s a thoughtfully curated set that complements many artistic styles and subjects.
Knowing these chalks are made in the USA adds an extra layer of trust for me. It often signals adherence to quality standards and reliable craftsmanship. For artists who value supporting domestic products or who want consistency in their art supplies, this is definitely a plus. Whether you are a beginner exploring pastels or an experienced artist looking to expand your palette, this set offers great value and performance.
To give you a clearer picture, here’s a quick overview of the key features
Feature Details Type Compressed Pastel Chalk Color Palette Earth Tone (4 colors) Texture Extra Smooth Dimensions 0.25 x 0.25 x 2.75 inches per stick Intended Use Fine Art Drawing Country of Origin USA
I find the GENERAL’S MultiPastel Compressed Chalk Sticks in Earthtones to be a fantastic addition to my art supplies. They offer an excellent balance of quality, usability, and color richness that can truly enhance the creative process. If you’re someone who values smooth application, rich earthy shades, and reliable craftsmanship, I’d highly recommend giving these chalks a try. They may just become your go-to for your next art project.
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4. General Pencil 1296499 Multi-Pastel Oil Free Square Compressed Chalk Stick, Pack of 12

When I first came across the General Pencil 1296499 Multi-Pastel Oil Free Square Compressed Chalk Stick, Pack of 12, I was immediately intrigued by its promise of versatility and quality. As someone who enjoys working with pastels and exploring different textures and effects in my artwork, this product seemed to offer a lot of potential. The fact that it comes in earth and portrait skin tones makes it especially appealing for portrait artists and those who want to achieve natural, subtle color variations in their work.
One of the standout features for me is the square shape of these chalk sticks. Unlike traditional round pastels, the square stick is specifically designed to work well on slightly rough or heavy-tooth paper. This means I can confidently use it on textured surfaces without worrying about the pastel crumbling or losing its vibrancy. The square edges also allow for more control and precision, which is great when I want to create defined lines or dramatic effects. This shape really enhances the versatility of the product.
Another aspect I appreciate is that these pastels are oil-free and acid-free. This is important to me because it means the colors won’t degrade or yellow over time, preserving the integrity of my artwork. Additionally, the ability to mix these sticks with charcoal opens up exciting possibilities for blending and layering. I find this particularly useful when I want to add depth or contrast to my drawings. The smooth application and blendable nature of the colors make it easy to achieve soft transitions and rich textures.
Having 12 sticks in a pack is also very convenient. It provides a good range of colors while ensuring I don’t run out too quickly during a project. The selection of earth and portrait skin tones feels thoughtfully curated for artists focused on realism and natural palettes, but I can also see these colors being useful in more abstract or mixed-media works. Overall, the pack offers excellent value considering the quality and variety.
To give you a clearer picture, here is a summary of the key features
Feature Benefit to User Multi-Pastel Compressed Chalk Stick Provides vibrant, rich colors suitable for various artistic styles Earth and Portrait Skin Tones Ideal for realistic portraits and natural color palettes Square Stick Shape Works well on textured, heavy-tooth paper offering dramatic effects and precision Oil-Free and Acid-Free Ensures longevity and prevents color degradation over time Can Be Mixed with Charcoal Allows for creative blending and enhanced texture possibilities Blendable Colors Smooth application and easy layering for soft transitions Pack of 12 Offers a convenient and versatile selection of colors for sustained use
if you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality pastel stick set that offers great color variety, excellent blending capabilities, and durability, the General Pencil 1296499 Multi-Pastel Oil Free Square Compressed Chalk Stick pack is definitely worth considering. I’ve found it enhances my creative process by giving me more control and options to experiment with textures and tones. While it’s targeted at artists who appreciate subtle, earthy shades, its adaptability means it can fit well into many different artistic workflows. If you want a dependable set of pastels that can handle textured paper and deliver consistent results, this pack could be a valuable addition to your art supplies.
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How General Multi Pastel Chalk 12 Sticks Help Me Express Creativity
I find that the General Multi Pastel Chalk 12 Sticks really enhance my creative projects. The rich, vibrant colors blend smoothly, allowing me to create beautiful gradients and soft textures that bring my artwork to life. Using these chalks feels effortless, and they give me the freedom to experiment with different techniques, whether I’m drawing detailed portraits or abstract designs.
Another reason I love these pastel chalks is their versatility. They work wonderfully on various surfaces like paper, cardboard, and even chalkboards, which makes them perfect for all kinds of art and craft activities. Plus, the sticks are easy to handle and don’t create too much dust, so my workspace stays clean and comfortable. Overall, these chalks have become my go-to tool for adding color and depth to my creative expression.
Buying Guide for General Multi Pastel Chalk 12 Sticks
Why I Choose Multi Pastel Chalks
When I first explored pastel chalks, I was drawn to their soft texture and vibrant colors. Multi pastel chalk sets offer a versatile range of hues, perfect for blending and layering. Having 12 sticks means I have enough variety to create detailed artwork without constantly switching sets.
Color Variety and Pigmentation
I always look for a set that provides a balanced palette. Twelve sticks usually cover a good spectrum of colors, allowing me to mix and achieve the shades I want. The pigmentation is crucial; the chalk should be rich in color so that it shows up well on paper or other surfaces without needing multiple layers.
Quality and Texture
The texture of the chalk affects how smoothly it applies and blends. I prefer sticks that are soft enough to blend easily but not so crumbly that they break apart quickly. High-quality pastel chalks offer a creamy feel and consistent application, which makes my drawing experience much more enjoyable.
Durability and Stick Size
I consider the size and durability of each stick important because it affects how long the set lasts. Twelve sticks provide a decent amount of material to work with, but I check the thickness to ensure they won’t wear down too fast. Compact sticks are easy to handle but may require more frequent replacement.
Compatibility with Different Surfaces
One reason I love pastel chalks is their versatility. I use them on various surfaces like textured paper, cardboard, and even wood. I make sure the set I buy works well on multiple types of surfaces, so I can experiment without limitations.
Ease of Use and Cleanup
Pastel chalks can be messy, so I look for sticks that produce minimal dust and are easy to handle. This helps keep my workspace tidy. Also, the chalk should be easy to blend with fingers or blending tools, which improves my control over the final look.
Packaging and Portability
Having a compact, sturdy box to store my 12 pastel chalk sticks is a bonus. It keeps them organized and prevents breakage when I take them on the go. I appreciate sets that come in a protective case, making it easier to carry and store them safely.
Price and Value
While I don’t always go for the cheapest option, I consider the value for money. A set of 12 sticks should offer good quality and a nice color range for the price. Investing in a reliable set saves me from having to replace chalks frequently or deal with poor pigmentation.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right set of general multi pastel chalks depends on what I want to create. For me, having 12 vibrant, well-textured sticks in a portable case with good pigmentation and durability makes all the difference. This guide helps me pick a set that suits both my artistic needs and budget.
Author Profile

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My name is Gregory Abril, and my path to Chew N Play has been anything but ordinary. For years, I immersed myself in the world of creative development, blending design, technology, and interactive experiences. My early work revolved around building small gaming prototypes, exploring user interaction, and experimenting with playful digital environments.
By 2025, I felt a shift in my passion. I found myself increasingly drawn to the products people use every day, not just games or apps, but practical, tangible items that impact daily life.
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