Generally, most Crayola products, including many crayons, are not considered permanent as their colors can fade over time, especially when exposed to strong light. However, Crayola also offers specific products that are designed to be permanent and light-fast.
According to information from Crayola:
- The color pigments in most Crayola products are not permanent and will fade over time when exposed to strong light.
- Certain specific Crayola products are permanent and light-fast on most paper surfaces.
This means that while your standard box of Crayola crayons might produce artwork that fades over the years if left in bright conditions, some specialized Crayola art supplies are formulated for longevity and light resistance.
Understanding Color Permanence
When discussing art supplies, "permanent" usually refers to the pigment's ability to resist fading or changing color over time when exposed to factors like light, humidity, or environmental pollutants. Products labeled "light-fast" are specifically tested to ensure they resist fading when exposed to light.
For most everyday coloring activities, the lightfastness of crayons may not be a major concern. However, for artwork intended for display or preservation, using light-fast materials is crucial.
What the Crayola Statement Means
The statement highlights a key difference between various products offered by Crayola.
- Most Products (e.g., Standard Crayons): Designed for temporary use, school projects, or general coloring fun. Their pigments are typically water-soluble or designed for easy washability, which often means they are less light-fast.
- Permanent Products: These are specific lines of Crayola art materials that use different pigment formulations intended for artists or those who need their work to last.
Here's a simple comparison:
| Feature | Most Crayola Products (e.g., Standard Crayons) | Specific Crayola Permanent Products |
|---|---|---|
| Permanence | Generally Not Permanent | Permanent |
| Lightfastness | Prone to fading in strong light | Resistant to fading in strong light |
| Intended Use | Everyday coloring, temporary projects | Artwork intended for display/preservation |
Identifying Permanent Crayola Products
The provided reference mentions that "the Crayola products below are permanent," but the list of those specific products was not included. To determine exactly which Crayola products are permanent and light-fast, you would typically look for specific labeling on the product packaging itself or consult Crayola's official website or customer service.
- Check Packaging: Look for terms like "permanent," "light-fast," or specific product line names known for artist-grade quality.
- Contact Crayola: For definitive information, you can reach out to Crayola directly. The reference provides contact details: Call or text them at 1-800-272-9652 on weekdays between 9 AM and 4 PM Eastern Time.
In summary, don't assume all Crayola crayons or products are permanent. While some specialized lines are, the majority are designed for temporary enjoyment and may fade over time.
