Visit to Schmincke Factory in Erkrath, Cologne, Germany

Sometimes dreams come true!

We all dream of things we would like to do or achieve. And for me, those dreams are in colors…!

Visiting the factory of Schmincke, one of my favorite Soft Pastel brands and one which I have been working with almost every day for many, many years now, has always been a great desire. And finally the day I was waiting so long arrived!

The factory is located near Köln (Cologne) in Germany. In the small town of Erkrath, in the state of Rhineland-Westphalia.

On the contrary to what one might think, it is a family business with only 75 employees…They take a personal care in each step of the production.

Schmincke has been manufacturing Pastels for more than 100 years! All the processes are practically made by hand and each Pastel is unique. Although they all have the same quality level and standards. The same exact and guarantee “formulas” that never change. The most important thing about these Soft Pastel bars is, probably, their softness. Also that they contain the highest amount possible of pure pigment. What gives at the end very bright and fresh colors so grateful to use.

I went through the factory with Susanne Gosch, my guide for the occasion, who kindly showed me all the production processes. We started by the room where all the pure pigments are stored. Some colors caught my gaze in such an incredible way that it was difficult to believe it. I was very impressed by the so pure blue! The reds, so hot,.. the yellows so bright and all the other colors so deep, bright and alive.

We went from there to see how the pigments were mixed, and how the process of oils, Acrylics, and watercolors were carried out.

It’s amazing to think that it takes about 4 months to complete the full process of a single watercolors tablet!

The quality standards are higher than I thought and each step takes time. I had the feeling that I was in another world. In those past worlds of not so long ago, where quality was more important (despite the time and effort involved) than anything. Where a well-done job matters more than the pursuit of quick profit … So widespread today.

In fact, Schmincke is one of the few brands of art materials, (producers of high-quality painting supplies) that did not move any of its sections to China, looking to quickly expand its benefits. Something that many companies actually do, undoubtedly affecting the quality of the final product.

The visit lasted more than two hours. A tour full of information and interesting conversations.

I left the Schmincke factory very happy and full of fresh ideas. Also with two new Pastel sets that I am planning to try in my studio in the coming weeks… I hope to share soon the results and tests of these ranges of colors!

And of course, I took few hours to visit Cologne!! And spent part of this time to climb the spiral staircase and the 533 steps that take you to the observation deck. Almost 100 meters high. But this is another story…