It's the paper I have an issue with. I will make a trip soon and pick up some WColour paper and prime it with Gesso, as I have seen it may work. Pastelmat is a hard animal to find. I hope to get another pad soon. Appreciate your support in my "work", and it helps to see your own experience.Hi Murray and thanks. I wish you luck in finding quality pastel painting supplies. I wish a well-stocked art supply store was available to you.