Welcome to the op group Rich:wave:
You can apply op’s in different ways but here are some tips to make life easier;
For light colors, lay down a thin layer of white first and then add little bits of color, blending as you add, until you’ve achieved your value.
Lay down the desired colors of the 1st layer in the proper places before blending – it’ll make the 2nd and final layer much easier
It’s easier to go darker than lighter.
Black is rather overpowering and should be used with care. You can darken with the complimentary colors in many places.
Practice and it’ll come naturally.
Looking forward to seeing your work:)

Hello and welcome, rich76!

Congratulations on beginning your oil pastel journey, the best medium in the world! Hope you’ll post your stuff.

I’ve been thinking about your question. I don’t layer, the colour I put down on the surface is generally the final colour, which some shadow/highlight adjustments. But some lighter colours can go over darker colours. Sennelier white, for example, is very opaque and lush, and will go over pretty much anything. Sennelier yellows, on the other hand, tend to be transparent pigments and won’t layer well over dark colours. You’ll need to experiment a bit and find out what works for you and the pastels you have :thumbsup:

I’ve been watching a few op videos and noticed a lot of artists started with a white layer. I guessed the purpose was to do with blending options, but haven’t mastered the technique yet. I call Cray-Pas expressionist my ‘good’ pastels, and have just ordered a Mungyo set, and am now keen to see how they work together.

I’m going to try that. Thanks for sharing.