Introducing Derwent Lightfast Pencils

Derwent Lightfast pencils are the new kids on the block in the world of professional colored pencils. Known for their robustness and vivid hues, these pencils have quickly gained a reputation among artists for their quality and longevity. Let’s dive deep into what makes these pencils tick.

Features and Lightfastness Scale

Derwent Lightfast pencils have several standout features that cater to artists looking for reliable, long-lasting art supplies. These pencils are famed for their:

• Oil-based Core: Their creamy, blendable texture makes layering and colour mixing a breeze. Unlike other pencils, their oil base contributes to their vibrant application.
• 100% Lightfastness: Yes, you’ve read it right. These pencils boast a lightfast rating of 7-8 on the ASTM D6901 lightfastness scale, meaning your masterpiece will stay as fresh as new for over 100 years under museum conditions.

Their high lightfast rating, coupled with the rich pigmentation, ensures that your artwork remains vibrant and resistant to fading. This makes them an excellent choice for permanent displays and professional works.

Comparison with Competitors

When assessing art supplies, it’s crucial to compare the top contenders. Derwent Lightfast pencils have some stiff competition, particularly from the likes of the Caran d’Ache Luminance and Faber-Castell Polychromos.

• Caran d’Ache Luminance pencils are known for their superior quality and excellent blendability. However, they come at a higher price point.
• Faber-Castell Polychromos provide exceptional layering capabilities and have a harder core, making them favorable for detailed work. But, they might be too rigid for those looking for a creamier application.

Derwent Lightfast pencils hold their ground with their unique combination of oil-based softness and top-tier lightfast ratings, making them a preferred choice for artists seeking longevity and rich colors. Additionally, Derwent Lightfast pencils stand out with their broader appeal and professional-grade quality.

By understanding the features and competitive advantages of Derwent Lightfast pencils, artists can make an informed decision before investing in their creative toolkit.

Exploring Derwent Lightfast Performance

Paper Compatibility and Layering

Derwent Lightfast pencils are nothing short of magical wands for creative souls. These pencils feel like oil-based crayons wearing a tuxedo – smooth, classy, and full of surprises. Their creamy laydown makes layering colours a delightful experience, allowing for multiple layers to be applied without the paper screaming “Enough already!” (Carrie Lewis).

When tested on Bristol vellum paper, the results were impressive. Despite its smooth texture, the paper’s tooth remained visible even after applying about a dozen layers. This provided a lovely surface for continuous colour building without turning into a slick mess (Carrie Lewis). So, your artistic endeavours can go from faint whispers to loud exclamations without missing a beat.

Artists are even contemplating landscapes with these pencils on Bristol vellum due to their positive test results, hinting at the limitless creative possibilities (Carrie Lewis).

Blending Abilities and Drawing Tests

Blending with Derwent Lightfast pencils is akin to blending colours in a dream – smooth, effortless, and yielding beautiful transitions. Whether you’re into soft gradients or bold designs, these pencils deliver. The directional stroke tests were also eye-opening. Even when using challenging colour combinations, the results were unexpectedly brilliant on Bristol paper (Carrie Lewis).

An interesting aspect of these pencils is their performance on the Derwent Lightfast paper itself. In a research experiment, this particular paper seemed to be the soulmate for Lightfast pencils, making it the favourite among artists when comparing it with other papers (lana.gloschat).

For those interested in technical details, here’s a peek into the drawing test results:

These insights into Derwent Lightfast pencils review shed light on their impeccable performance, compatibility, and blending abilities, making them a must-have for serious artists. Whether you are painting a serene landscape or a vibrant portrait, these pencils will not let you down.

Derwent Lightfast Variety and Availability

Derwent Lightfast pencils come with an impressive variety and availability, making them a favourite among artists looking for high-quality coloured pencils.

Set Options and Individual Purchase

Derwent offers multiple purchase options to suit both novices and professional artists. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your collection, there’s a set that fits your needs perfectly.

Derwent even anticipates adding more colours to their Lightfast pencil line once additional pigments pass their rigorous tests, so stay tuned!

Colour Range and Special Features

The colour range of Derwent Lightfast pencils is as wide as a chameleon’s wardrobe. From vibrant reds to the deepest blues, these colours don’t just whisper on paper – they shout with exuberance.

The pencils’ oil-based composition sets them apart from competitors. This feature ensures that colours blend seamlessly, layering effortlessly to create dimensions that pop right off the paper.

User Insights and Reviews

Customer Appreciation and Concerns

Derwent Lightfast pencils have managed to capture the admiration of many artists, but they are not without their quirks. Customers are particularly fond of the lightfastness and blendability of these pencils. They rave about how colours remain vibrant over time, which is crucial for pieces destined to be heirlooms or displayed in galleries.

Professional Insights on Derwent Lightfast

Artists’ Reviews and Recommendations

Artists worldwide have expressed their admiration for Derwent Lightfast pencils, and their reviews are a blend of vibrant cheers and a few cautious whispers. The pencils’ soft, creamy texture has won many hearts, making them a top choice for detailed artwork, from portraits to landscapes. According to SarahRenaeClark, they are highly recommended for their professional quality and versatility.

However, some artists have noted issues such as lead breakage and broken tips during shipping. This isn’t uncommon with softer leads, but it’s something to keep in mind when investing in these premium pencils.

Derwent Lightfast pencils are often compared to other oil-based pencils due to their creamy laydown. The smooth application allows for multiple layers of color, which is a significant advantage for creating vibrant, detailed artwork. Carrie Lewis tested these pencils on Bristol paper and found that they performed exceptionally well, allowing for rich layers and seamless transitions (Carrie Lewis).

Usage Tips and Suggestions

To make the most out of Derwent Lightfast pencils and safeguard your investment, here are some tips and suggestions from fellow artists and experts:

• Paper Choice: Use a quality paper like Bristol or any mixed media paper that can handle multiple layers (Carrie Lewis).
• Layering and Blending: The pencils’ creamy nature makes them perfect for blending. Use a light hand initially and gradually build up layers to avoid wax bloom.
• Preventing Breakage: Sharpen your pencils gently. Investing in a good quality sharpener can minimize the risk of tips breaking.
• Using Solvents: For a paint-like effect, try dissolving the pigments with a solvent. This enhances the vibrant colors and smooth transitions in your artwork.
• Storage: Store your Derwent Lightfast pencils in a carrying case or a box to protect them from damage.

By following these usage tips and consulting artists’ recommendations, you can fully unleash your creativity with Derwent Lightfast pencils and create standout pieces of art.