These Faber-Castell Oil Pastels are smooth and rich for easy colour laydown. The colours can easily be blended together allowing you to create new hues. You can use the included scratch tool to reveal layers underneath, allowing you to experiment with unique effects. The colours are rich for brilliant colour laydown. You can add black or white tints for shading and highlighting techniques. The colours can be rubbed together and blended to create new hues. They are non-toxic for your peace of mind. There is a scratch tool and art tray included so you can implement a variety of techniques. There are 24 pastels in this pack. It is recommended for ages 8 and above, but are suitable for all ages.