Cellulose fibers create Pastelmat's distinctive velvety tooth, firm enough to grab pigment aggressively but smooth enough for controlled detail work. This surface pulls pastel deep into its structure, producing vibrant color without the aggressive abrasion of sanded papers. You'll build multiple layers with precision, blending pigments exactly where you want them while maintaining clean edges elsewhere.

The practical benefits matter as much as the surface quality. Pastelmat generates minimal dust compared to sanded alternatives, eliminating the need for masks and dust-catching trays during normal work sessions. Pastel erases completely with melamine foam or compressed air when you need corrections. The non-abrasive texture consumes sticks roughly 30% slower than sanded papers while staying gentle on your hands during extended sessions.

Each pad contains twelve sheets with glassine interleaving to protect finished work. The acid-free surface holds pigment securely enough that fixatives become optional rather than necessary. Beyond traditional pastels, this surface handles charcoal, colored pencils, oil pastels, and even wet media including watercolor, acrylic, and gouache. Create alcohol-based underpaintings or solvent washes as foundation layers, the paper withstands moisture without buckling or compromising its tooth.