For years I have tried to avoid using much purple since most attempts at it faded. 

Has there been any improvement in the success of purple lately?  

I need to do something purple, and a lot of it, so I don't want to take any chances.  What do you all recommend?   

Chefmaster No Fade Purple

Sugarflair - Deep Purple or even Grape

BUT to understand it better ....

http://ericaobrien.com/blog/2011/08/on-purple-fondant.html

Thank you so much for the info and the link.  I think I will try the Chefmaster color.  We will see how it goes.