One of the simplest ways to blend oil pastels is to use a blending stump made of absorbent material. To use a blending stump, simply gently buff it over the oil pastel lines in the direction of the strokes. The stump can absorb some of the oil pastel pigment, enabling you to merge the colors together. This technique works well for creating smooth transitions between colors and for softening the edges of your artwork.

Another technique involves using a tortillon. A tortillon is a small, flat tool made of tightly wound cloth. It can be employed to smooth out and create even color transitions by gently rubbing it over the oil pastel lines. The tortillon functions similarly to the same way as a blending stump, but it is often more effective way of producing a uniform finish.

In addition to these tools, you can also use a gentle touch and some hand blending skills oil pastels by hand. This technique requires careful application your the palmar surface of your fingers over the oil pastel lines, utilizing gentle strokes and smooth strokes to merge the colors together. This technique can be a bit more difficult, but it enables for a high degree of control and flexibility.

To realize truly seamless blends, it's essential working on wet surfaces. This means that you should the second layer of oil pastel color to the artwork while the previous surface is still wet. This allows the colors to meld together more easily to produce a smoother, more even finish. To avoid muddying the pigments, make sure to carefully apply the additional layer of oil pastel with precision, using smooth strokes and gentle pressure.

When working on pastel artworks, it's also essential using the right paper. Look for paper that is designed especially for pastel artwork, as it will have that is easy to merge and smooth out. Popular paper choices include hot press paper and paper specifically pastel work.

Finally, practice is key to mastering the art of oil pastel blending. With some dedication and persistent practice, you can realize truly polished blends and create artwork that is truly excellent finish.

By incorporating these techniques into your international art competition practice, you can take your oil pastel creations through various next level and achieve a more refined finish. Experiment with and techniques that suits your style works best for you, and keep in mind the importance of practice regularly to refine your skills.