Caran d'Ache Classic Neocolor II Water-Soluble Pastels
- 10 colors of water-soluble wax pastel
- Metal tin set
- 2B hardness, 10 mm diameter
- Dilute with water for watercolor effects
- Conforms to EM-71 and ASTM D4236
- 90 day warranty
Last refreshed Sep 7, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
Artist-grade wax pastels that turn to watercolor-style washes with water. The set is small and sold in a tin, and the stick format is not for dry-only buyers who want soft chalk pastel.
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ASIN: B000YIMXMGModel: 7500.31Category: Pastels
Overview
An artist's studio table is the setting for these Caran d'Ache Neocolor II sticks, made on a wax base. They dilute when wetted, so colors can be painted out with a brush. Sketch first, sprinkle with water, then lift and spread the color.
Wet and dry use gives these sticks a place in sketching, figure work and portraits, and the pigment is bright and opaque. The set has only ten colors, so mixing is needed for a wider palette.
Who it's for
Fine artists, illustrators, graphic artists and teachers can use the tin for sketching, wash effects and portable color work. Buyers who need dry chalk-style pastels or a big range of shades should look at a different line.
Pros and cons
- Water-soluble wax pastel
- Bright, opaque color
- Metal tin storage
- Meets EM-71 and ASTM D4236
- Only ten colors in the set
- Not a soft chalk pastel
- Warranty is short
- Line size spec unclear
Performance notes
A high pigment concentration gives bright, opaque color on dry or wet paper. Applying water dilutes the wax pastel so a brush can move it like watercolor, and drawing on moistened paper produces a wash and varnish effect. Lightfastness is stated by the maker.
Specifications
| Brand | d'Ache |
|---|---|
| Model | 7500.31 |
| Dimensions & fit | |
| Item Diameter | 10 millimeters |
| Item dimensions | 8 x 4 x 0.5 inches |
| Weight | 5.12 ounces |
| Construction & materials | |
| Material Type | Metal tin |
| Included components | |
| Unit Count | 10 count |
| Warranty & support | |
| Warranty Description | 90 days |
| Other details | |
| Writing Instrument Form | Water-soluble wax pastel stick |
| Hardness | 2B |
| Writing Technique | Watercolor, dry or wet |
Closest rivals on specs
MUNGYO Gallery Artists' Soft Oil Pastels Professional- Item Weight 0.32 vs 0.02 pounds (+1500%)
MUNGYO Gallery Artists' Soft Oil Pastels- Item Diameter 0.4 vs 0.3 inches (+33%)
Prismacolor Premier Nupastels- Item Weight 0.32 vs 0.38 pounds (-16%)
- Item Diameter 0.4 vs 0.2 inches (+100%)
Frequently asked questions
Are Caran d'Ache Neocolor II pastels the same as chalk pastels?
No. They are water-soluble wax pastels with a high pigment concentration, made to dilute with water.
How do I use Caran d'Ache Neocolor II with water?
Sketch with the pastels, sprinkle with water and let the colors dilute, then pick up color with a brush. You can also draw on moistened paper.
Do Caran d'Ache Neocolor II pastels meet safety standards?
The listing says the set conforms to EM-71 (CE) and ASTM D4236 and is suitable for use in U.S. schools.
What comes in the Caran d'Ache Neocolor II 10 color set?
Ten pastel sticks in assorted colors, packaged in a metal tin.