Derwent Lightfast Colored Pencils: A Game-Changer for Artists
If you’re an artist looking for high-quality, long-lasting colored pencils, Derwent Lightfast Colored Pencils might be the perfect choice. These professional-grade pencils offer rich, vibrant colors that are designed to resist fading for up to 100 years under museum conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, these pencils will help bring your artwork to life.
Why Choose Derwent Lightfast Colored Pencils?
1. 100% Lightfast Guarantee
One of the biggest concerns for artists is color fading over time. Many traditional colored pencils lose their vibrancy when exposed to light. However, Derwent Lightfast Pencils are made with pigments that resist UV light, ensuring that your artwork remains as vivid as the day you created it. These pencils meet the ASTM D6901 international lightfast standard, making them a reliable choice for professional and archival work.
2. Smooth, Oil-Based Formula
Unlike wax-based colored pencils, which can leave a waxy buildup or "bloom," Derwent Lightfast pencils use an oil-based core. This unique composition allows for:
- Smooth, effortless blending
- Rich, opaque layers
- A buttery texture similar to oil pastels
- Less breakage and more durability
3. Versatile and Easy to Use
Derwent Lightfast pencils work well with various techniques and surfaces. They are ideal for:
- Layering and blending – Create soft transitions and smooth shading
- Mixed media projects – Use them with markers, inks, and watercolors
- Burnishing – Achieve a polished, glossy finish by layering and blending
- Solvent blending – Use mineral spirits or blending mediums for a painterly effect
4. Wide Range of Colors
With up to 100 colors available, Derwent Lightfast offers an impressive range of shades, from deep earth tones to bright, bold hues. The high pigment concentration ensures vivid and true-to-life colors that work well on various surfaces, including paper, canvas, and wood.
What’s Included in Each Set?
Derwent Lightfast pencils are available in different set sizes to suit various needs:
- Set of 12 – A great starter set with essential colors like Sun Yellow, Scarlet, Violet, and Black
- Set of 24 – Expands your palette with deeper blues, greens, and earth tones
- Set of 36 – Adds more pastel tones and rich darks for greater versatility
- Set of 72 – The ultimate collection, including every shade needed for detailed artwork
- Tin Box & Wood Box Set of 100 – A premium selection featuring the complete range, plus a Lightfast Collection Book
Each set is neatly packaged in a sturdy tin or elegant wooden box, making them easy to store and transport.
How to Get the Best Results with Derwent Lightfast Pencils
1. Experiment with Blending Techniques
Because these pencils have an oil-based core, they blend beautifully. Try using a blending stump, tissue, or even your fingers to create smooth transitions between colors.
2. Layering for Depth and Richness
To achieve depth in your artwork, apply multiple layers. Start with light pressure and gradually build up the intensity. You can also mix colors directly on the paper by layering different shades.
3. Use a Solvent for a Painterly Effect
Want to mimic the look of oil painting? Try using a solvent like odorless mineral spirits to dissolve the pigments and create a smooth, painted effect. This technique works great for realistic portraits and landscapes.
4. Keep Your Pencils Sharp
A sharp point is essential for adding fine details and crisp edges. Use a high-quality sharpener designed for colored pencils to maintain a fine tip.
What Artists Are Saying
Many artists have made the switch to Derwent Lightfast and love them for their:
✔ Superior lightfastness – No fading, even after years of display
✔ Rich and vibrant pigments – Colors stay bold and true
✔ Smooth application – Effortless layering and blending
✔ Durability – Strong cores that resist breakage
Professional artists, illustrators, and hobbyists alike appreciate the quality and longevity of these pencils.
Where to Buy Derwent Lightfast Colored Pencils
If you’re ready to invest in these high-quality pencils, you can find them at several trusted retailers:
Final Thoughts
Derwent Lightfast Colored Pencils are a fantastic choice for artists who want high-quality, durable, and vibrant colored pencils. With their smooth oil-based cores, excellent blendability, and guaranteed lightfastness, these pencils ensure your artwork stays fresh and bold for a lifetime.
Whether you're sketching, creating detailed illustrations, or working on fine art pieces, these pencils offer unmatched quality and performance.
So why not give them a try? Pick up a set today and take your artwork to the next level!
