Swatching My New Holbein Colored Pencils

Regarding the lightfast rating system they use here is some information:

lightfast ratings, shown as one to three stars (★ to ★★★) on the pencil barrel, indicate how well the pigment resists fading from light exposure, with three stars (★★★) representing the highest lightfastness (best permanence) and one star (★) the lowest, meaning they're more likely to fade, crucial for art meant to last. While a higher rating means better permanence, it's important to note Holbein uses its own system, not the ASTM standard, so it's a company-specific measure of quality, with ★★★ generally equating to excellent, long-term stability.
What the Star Ratings Mean:
★★★ (Three Stars): Excellent lightfastness; these colors are highly permanent and suitable for professional artwork intended to last decades or centuries.
★★ (Two Stars): Good lightfastness, but less permanent than three-star colors.
★ (One Star): Lower lightfastness; these colors are more prone to fading and should be used with caution for important, long-lasting art, perhaps for studies or prints, not originals.
Key Considerations:
Proprietary System: Holbein's star system is their own rating, not the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standard, which uses numbers (LF I-V).
Fading Resistance: Lightfastness measures how well a color's pigment holds up against light, preventing it from shifting or disappearing over time.
Artist Quality: A higher rating signifies artist-grade quality, indicating the pigments chosen offer superior durability for professional use.

Holbein colored pencils are primarily oil-based, featuring a soft, creamy core made from a blend of fine pigments, oils, fats, and wax, designed for professional use with excellent layering and blending capabilities. While they contain some wax, their dominant characteristic is their oil-based binder, giving them a smooth, rich application and resistance to smudging compared to many traditional wax pencils.
Key Characteristics:
Binder: A mix of oils, fats, and wax, making them soft and buttery.
Feel: Smooth, with a dense application, excellent for blending and burnishing.
Performance: Layer beautifully, release color with light pressure, and work well with solvents like Holbein Meltz.


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