Lightfast Test: Lukas Aquarelle 1862 after four months

This is one project that seems to slip through the cracks when it comes to doing regular updates (original post, first update). The irony is that the more I forget about it the better the comparison becomes as I leave the test strip in the sun longer. This time it’s been 18 weeks since I first hung the test strip in a south facing window.

This weekend is probably the last one of the spring that will see the daytime highs staying under 100℉ (38℃). So before heading into the real Arizona heat, here’s a look at the progress so far.

May 28, 2016. Second comparison of test strips after 18 weeks of sun exposure in a south facing window.

May 28, 2016. Second comparison of test strips after 18 weeks of sun exposure in a south facing window.

I’m hard pressed to see much change. I would have to say even the 2-star rated Alizarin Crimson is holding up better that it’s rating would indicate.

For a side-by-side comparison, here’s all of the scans together.

All three scans to date, together for comparison.

Overall, I’m impressed. I expected a lot more fading by now. But summer is coming and the real test starts now. I plan another update in three months (the middle-to-end of August) and we’ll find out if the paint can take the heat.