Posts: 436
From: USA
Registered: Jun 2014

posted 09-26-2016 08:09 PM               

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Since Sharpies fade, I was wondering what one prefers to use instead when getting blue signatures on large format matte photos (specifically Fuji Crystal Archive Matte) that will be framed?

I want something that's easy for the signer to handle and would prefer something comparable to a felt tip so there's no chance of it scratching the photo surface.

Any help with regard to brands and tips would be appreciated. Thanks!

Posts: 2343
From:
Registered: Aug 2001

posted 09-27-2016 02:30 AM            

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Only the old black sharpies or other non-blue colors fade, not industrial Sharpies.

Sunlight is always a factor in longevity. The new Sharpie Extreme is to supposedly last the longest, irregardless of color.

Posts: 4167
From: England
Registered: Feb 2001

posted 09-27-2016 03:35 AM               

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This particular chestnut is a question that crops up regularly. In my opinion, apart from avoiding exposure to daylight (even with so called UV protective glass), the method of storage for Sharpie signed pieces is the biggest influencing factor for the longevity of a signature.

In common with most cS members I'm sure, I have many black Sharpie signed pieces and a few blue, some of which are 40 plus years old... and few if any show signs of fading.

Posts: 242
From: Tucson, Arizona, USA
Registered: Nov 2008

posted 09-27-2016 04:27 PM               

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The "Industrial" Sharpie is only available in black, not blue. For blue, we now use Staedtler Lumocolor Permanent pens.

We did a fade comparison several years ago under intense sunlight, and the blue Staedtler is much less prone to fading than the regular blue Sharpie, although it will still fade some under UV exposure. The Staedtler has tip sizes that are comparable to the Sharpie.

We have not tried the Sharpie Extreme pens, because the Steadtlers have worked very well for us.