Introduction

Let’s explore and adventure together as we find out as much as we can about crayons. And we are sure you’ll be shocked to know the history, all the incredible uses, and creative ways crayons can be used. You have so many options with so many different techniques. Each and everyone provides a unique solution to an end product.

Are you interested in making your crayons, but not sure which method is right for you? Well, sweat no more my friend. We will discuss many different forms of crayon making and techniques to help dial down your options to an informative well-planned decision. From melt-and-pour crayons to homemade crayons using different materials, there are several different methods for DIY crayons to choose from. Get your notepad, and crayons ready as we dive on in!

Brief History of the Crayon

Crayons are a beloved and essential part of childhood and have been enjoyed by kids and adults alike for generations. But have you ever wondered where crayons came from and how they have evolved? Check out this brief history of crayon

The earliest known crayons were made by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans who used a mixture of soot and beeswax to create writing and drawing tools. These crayons were used to create decorations on papyrus and other materials, this was a popular way to add color to artwork and documents.

The first modern crayons were created in the 19th century by Nicholas-Jacques Conte, a French artist, and inventor. Conte’s crayons were made with a mixture of clay and pigment, and they were marketed as a less messy alternative to charcoal and other drawing tools. Conte’s crayons were popular with artists, but they were expensive and not widely available.

In the early 20th century, several companies began producing crayons made with a mixture of paraffin wax and pigment. These crayons were cheaper and more widely available than Conte’s crayons, and they quickly became popular with children and artists alike. In 1903, the Crayola company was founded, and it quickly became one of the most well-known crayon manufacturers in the world.

In the 1960s, Crayola introduced a line of crayons made with non-toxic ingredients. This made crayons safer for children to use, and helped to establish crayons as a staple of childhood art supplies. Today, Crayola is still one of the most well-known crayon manufacturers, and it offers a wide range of crayons in a variety of colors, sizes, and packaging options.

In recent years, there has been a trend towards eco-friendly and natural crayons made with materials such as beeswax, soy wax, and other natural binders. These crayons are often marketed as a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional crayons made with paraffin wax.

Today, crayons are made using a variety of materials, including wax, oil, and other binders. They come in a wide range of colors and sizes and are used by people of all ages for coloring, drawing, and other creative activities. Crayons are an integral part of childhood, and they continue to be enjoyed by kids and adults alike.

Overall, the history of crayons is a fascinating story that spans thousands of years and has seen many innovations and developments. From their humble beginnings as a writing and drawing tool in ancient Egypt, crayons have evolved into a beloved and versatile art supply that is enjoyed by people all over the world. Whether you prefer traditional wax crayons, oil pastels, or natural, eco-friendly crayons, there is a crayon option for everyone!

Deciding what kind of crayon to make

Crayons come in so many different types and designs as well as different types of materials here are some creative options for the types of crayons you can make.

Coloring crayons

Who doesn’t love a good Coloring crayon?

Coloring crayons are crayons that are used for coloring and drawing. They are made with pigments that are mixed with a binder, such as wax or oil, to create a solid, stick-like form. Coloring crayons come in a wide range of colors, from bright primary shades to subtle pastels, shapes, and sizes.

Coloring crayons are easy to use and provide a simple, intuitive way to create art. With coloring crayons, you can draw pictures, create designs, or write words and letters. The wax or oil in the crayons provides a smooth, creamy texture that is easy to work with and allows for a wide range of coloring techniques.

In addition to being a fun art activity, coloring with crayons can also have many benefits for kids. Coloring can help to improve fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and concentration. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and pride in the finished product.

Coloring crayons are a classic art supply that provides endless hours of creative fun for kids. They are a great way to encourage kids to express themselves and have fun while they explore their creativity.

Bath crayons.

Bath crayons are crayons that are specifically designed for use in the bathtub. They are made with non-toxic materials and are safe for use on the skin. Bath crayons are a fun and creative way for kids to express themselves and have fun while they bathe.

Bath crayons can be used to create all kinds of artistic masterpieces on the walls and tiles of the bathtub or shower. Kids can draw pictures, write messages, or create their designs using these crayons. The water washes away the crayon marks, so there’s no need to worry about cleaning up a big mess afterward.

Bath crayons are a fun and creative way to add some whimsy and playfulness to bath time. They are a great way to encourage kids to express themselves and have fun while they clean up.

Body crayons

Crayons made for use with the body are crayons that are made using melted lip balm as the base instead of traditional wax or oil. Lip balm-type crayons are typically softer and more moisturizing than traditional crayons, and they have a gentle, soothing scent.

Body crayons are gentle on the skin and can be used safely on sensitive areas such as the face and hands. Body crayons are a great option for those who want a more natural and nourishing alternative to traditional crayons.

In addition to being a fun and creative art supply, crayons made with lip balm can also have other benefits. For example, they can help to moisturize and nourish the skin, and the gentle scent can be soothing and relaxing.

Overall, crayons made for the body are a fun and unique alternative to traditional crayons. They are a great option for those who want a more natural and nourishing way to color and create.

Crayons for food creations

How many times have you heard to not play with your food? Well, here at Cool Dog Trays we encourage it!

Crayons made with food are crayons that are made using food materials as the base instead of traditional wax or oil. Food crayons can be made using a variety of ingredients, such as melted chocolate, fruit purees, or spices. Food crayons are typically softer and more fragrant than traditional crayons, and they can add a unique and creative touch to art projects.

Crayons made with food can provide a fun and unusual way to add color and scent to art projects. Food crayons are a great option for those who want to add a touch of whimsy and playfulness to their art supplies.

In addition to being a fun and creative art supply, crayons made with food can also have other benefits. For example, crayons made with chocolate or other sweet treats can add a delicious scent and flavor to art projects. Crayons made with fruit purees or spices can add a natural and earthy aesthetic to art projects.

Crayons made with food are a great option for those who want to experiment with new and unusual materials in their art.

Crayons for Artistic Creations

One of the things that come to mind when thinking of Crayons for artistic creations is something I saw; An artist used and arranged several crayons and glued them to the top of a canvas. They placed a silhouette at the bottom of the canvas and used a heat gun to melt the crayons down to the silhouette. This piece of art gets the creative juices flowing when thinking of what possibilities could come from making crayons in a particular mold and using unique color combinations.

Crayons made for art are crayons that are specifically designed for use in artistic creations. These crayons can come in a variety of forms, such as traditional stick crayons, oil pastels, or watercolor crayons. Art crayons are typically more pigmented and vibrant than traditional crayons, and they provide a wide range of coloring options for artists.

One of the great things about crayons made for art is that they provide a versatile and effective tool for creating a wide range of artistic effects. With art crayons, you can blend and layer colors to create a wide range of shading and coloring effects. You can also use art crayons to create a variety of line widths and textures, depending on the type of crayon you are using.

Have you seen some art made with crayons that left you in all the feels?

Picking the right materials for your Crayon Making

If you want to go beyond just melting and pouring old crayons, there are a few different materials you can use to make homemade crayons. These materials can range from food safe, body safe, bath fun, and more. They can also be melted and mixed with pigment or natural spices to create crayons that are natural and eco-friendly.

Homemade crayons made with natural materials or markers have the added benefit of being more unique and interesting than store-bought crayons. However, they may not be as vibrant or long-lasting as traditional crayons.

No matter which method you choose, DIY crayons are a fun and creative way to get creative with your art supplies. So take some time to consider your options and choose the method that best fits your needs and preferences.

1. Old crayons: The most common material for making DIY crayons is old crayons. These can be melted and poured into silicone molds to create custom crayons in any shape or color.
2. Natural materials: You can use natural materials such as beeswax or soy wax to make homemade crayons.
3. Old markers: You can use old markers to make crayons by melting the plastic casing and pouring it into silicone molds. This method is great for using up those dried-out markers that are no longer usable.
4. Oil pastels: You can use oil pastels to make crayons by melting the oil pastels and pouring the melted mixture into silicone molds. Oil pastels are a type of art supply that is made with a mixture of pigment, oil, and wax.
5. Candle wax or paraffin wax
6. Lip balm: You can use melted lip balm to create crayons with a softer, more moisturizing texture. This is a great option for those who want crayons that are gentle on the skin.
7. Chocolate or food: You can use melted chocolate to create crayons with a rich, chocolatey scent and flavor. This is a fun option for those who want to add a little indulgence to their art supplies.
8. Soap: You can use melted soap to create crayons with a gentle, cleansing scent. This is a great option for those who want crayons that are safe for use on the skin.
9. Scents: You can add essential oils or other scents to your melted crayon mixture to create crayons with a variety of fragrances. This is a fun way to customize your crayons and add a little extra sensory appeal to your art supplies.
10. Coloring Pigment to create eye-popping colors in your crayons.
11. Glitter: You can add glitter to your melted crayon mixture to create crayons with a sparkling, shimmering effect. This is a great option for those who want to add a little extra sparkle to their art projects.
12. Natural pigments: You can use natural pigments such as turmeric, beet juice, or paprika to add color to your crayons. This is a great option for those who want to create crayons with a more natural, earthy aesthetic.
13. Food coloring: You can use food coloring to add a wide range of vibrant colors to your crayons. This is a fun option for those who want to create crayons in a variety of eye-catching shades.

Finding the right techniques for Diy Crayons

Melt and pour crayons

Melting and pouring old crayons into a silicone mold is a popular method for making DIY crayons, and it’s easy to see why. With this method, you can create custom crayons in any shape or color you can imagine using silicone molds. This is a simple process with multiple methods to best fit your needs.

This method is great for those who want a quick and easy way to make DIY crayons. It’s also a great option for those who want to create custom crayons in a variety of shapes and colors. The only downside is that the crayons may not be as vibrant as store-bought crayons, as the melted crayons tend to lose some of their intensity.

Different techniques to melt-and-pour crayons

If you want to try your hand at melting and pouring old crayons, there are a few different methods you can try. Multiple methods to this include but are not limited to use with a stovetop, microwave, double broiler, crock pot, and oven. These methods are quick and easy.

1. Microwave method: In this method, you melt the crayons in a microwave. This is a quick and easy option, but it can be a little tricky to get the crayons to melt evenly. You may need to microwave the crayons in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until they are completely melted.
2. Stovetop method: In this method, you melt the crayons on the stove using a saucepan. This method is a little more time-consuming, but it allows for more control over the melting process. Just place the crayons in a saucepan on the stove and heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the crayons are completely melted.
3. Double boiler method: In this method, you melt the crayons using a double boiler. A double boiler is a set of two pots – one smaller pot that fits inside a larger pot. The larger pot is filled with water and placed on the stove, and the smaller pot is used to melt the crayons. This method is a little more time-consuming, but it allows for even heating and helps to prevent the crayons from burning.
4. Slow cooker method: In this method, you melt the crayons using a slow cooker. This is a great option for those who want a hands-off approach to melting crayons. Simply place the crayons in a slow cooker and let them melt. then scoop into your molds.
5. Natural material crayons: In this method, you make crayons using natural materials such as beeswax or soy wax. These materials can be melted and mixed with pigment to create crayons that are natural and eco-friendly. This method is a good option for those who want a more natural and sustainable alternative to traditional crayons.
6. Marker crayons: In this method, you use old markers to make crayons. This method is great for using up those dried-out markers that are no longer usable. Simply remove the ink cartridge from the markers and melt the plastic casing in a microwave or on the stove, just like you would with old crayons. Then, pour the melted plastic into silicone molds and allow it to harden. This method is a good option for those who want to create unique and interesting crayons.
7. Oil pastel crayons: In this method, you use oil pastels to make crayons. Oil pastels are a type of art supply that is made with a mixture of pigment, oil, and wax. To make crayons with oil pastels, you can melt the oil pastels in a microwave or on the stove and then pour the melted mixture into silicone molds. This method is a good option for those who want to create crayons with a softer, more pastel-like texture.
8. Crayon rocks: In this method, you use a mixture of pigment and beeswax to create crayons that are shaped like rocks. To make crayon rocks, you will need to melt the beeswax and mix it with pigment until you achieve the desired color. Then, pour the mixture into silicone molds or a silicone ice cube tray and allow it to harden. This method is a good option for those who want to create crayons with a unique and natural look.
9. Layered crayons: In this method, you create crayons by layering different colors of melted crayons on top of each other. To make layered crayons, you will need to melt each color of crayon separately and then pour the melted crayons into the silicone molds, one color at a time. This method is a good option for those who want to create crayons with a striped or marbled effect.
10. Sculpted crayons: In this method, you use melted crayons to create sculpted crayons in any shape or form you can imagine. To make sculpted crayons, you will need to melt the crayons and then sculpt them while they are still warm and pliable. This method is a good option for those who want to create crayons with a more artistic or creative look.

Creative Uses for Crayons

Crayons are a classic and beloved art supply that can be used for a wide range of creative projects. From coloring and drawing to crafting and decorating, there are countless ways to use crayons in your art and design projects. Here are some ideas for creative uses for crayons:

1. Custom coloring books: Create your own coloring book by sketching out designs and patterns on blank paper, and then using crayons to fill in the details and add color. This is a fun and creative way to create a personalized coloring book that is unique to you.
2. Customized crayon shapes: Use silicone molds or cookie cutters to create custom crayon shapes. This is a great way to make crayons in fun and unusual shapes, such as hearts, stars, or animals.
3. Crayon rubbings: Use crayons to create rubbings of textured surfaces, such as leaves, coins, or fabric. This is a fun and easy way to create art projects that incorporate texture and pattern.
4. Crayon resist art: Use crayons to create resist art projects by drawing over a watercolor or ink wash. The wax in the crayon will resist the paint, creating interesting and unique effects.
5. Crayon sculptures: Use crayons to create three-dimensional sculptures and models. This is a fun and creative way to explore sculpting and modeling techniques using a medium that is familiar and accessible.
6. Crayon crafts: Use crayons to create a wide range of crafts, such as ornaments, bookmarks, and cards. Crayons are versatile and easy-to-use materials that can add color and creativity to a wide range of crafts projects.

Overall, crayons are a versatile and fun art supply that can be used in a wide range of creative projects. Whether you are an experienced artist or a beginner, crayons provide endless opportunities for artistic expression and creativity.

Tips and Tricks

There are a few things you can try to make DIY crayons as vibrant as store-bought crayons:

1. Use high-quality, pigmented crayons: Store-bought crayons are made with high-quality, pigmented wax that is formulated to produce vibrant colors. To achieve similar results with DIY crayons, try using high-quality, pigmented crayons as your starting material. Crayola crayons are a good option, as they are known for their vibrant colors.
2. Use a large number of crayons: Store-bought crayons are made with a large quantity of pigmented wax, which helps to produce vibrant colors. To achieve similar results with DIY crayons, try using a large number of crayons in your melted crayon mixture. This will help to create a more concentrated, pigmented mixture.
3. Use a high melting point wax: Store-bought crayons are made with a high melting point wax, which helps to preserve the intensity of the pigments. To achieve similar results with DIY crayons, try using a high melting point wax as your base. Beeswax or soy wax are good options, as they have a high melting point and are also natural and eco-friendly.
4. Add pigment to the crayon mixture: Store-bought crayons are made with a high concentration of pigment, which helps to create vibrant colors. To achieve similar results with DIY crayons, try adding pigment to your crayon mixture. You can purchase pigment powders online or at a craft store and mix them into your melted crayon mixture before pouring them into the silicone molds. Just be sure to use a small quantity of pigment, as it can be easy to oversaturate the mixture and create a muddy color

It’s important to keep in mind that achieving the same level of vibrancy as store-bought crayons may not be possible with DIY crayons, as the starting material may not be as high-quality or concentrated. However, with a little experimentation and the tips listed above, you should be able to create DIY crayons that are close in vibrancy to store-bought crayons.

To mimic the properties of store-bought crayons as closely as possible, you will want to use a high-quality, pigmented wax as your base material. Store-bought crayons are typically made with paraffin wax, which is a type of petroleum-based wax that has a high melting point and is easy to work with.

Beeswax or soy wax are good alternatives to paraffin wax, as they are natural and eco-friendly. These waxes also have a high melting point, which helps to preserve the intensity of the pigments and create vibrant colors.

In addition to using high-quality, pigmented wax as your base material, you can also add pigment to your crayon mixture to create more vibrant colors. Pigment powders can be purchased online or at a craft store and mixed into your melted wax mixture before pouring it into the silicone molds. Just be sure to use a small quantity of pigment, as it can be easy to oversaturate the mixture and create a muddy color.

By using high-quality, pigmented wax and adding pigment to your crayon mixture, you should be able to create DIY crayons that mimic the properties of store-bought crayons as closely as possible.

Fun And Unique Crayon ideas

DIY crayons are a fun and creative project that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you are using old crayons, natural materials, or a combination of different materials, there are many fun and unique ideas that you can explore when making your own crayons. Here are some fun and unique crayon ideas:

1. Lip balm crayons: Lip balm can be used as the base for homemade crayons, creating a soft and creamy texture that is easy to apply. You can add food coloring or natural pigments to customize the color of the crayons, and you can also add fragrances or essential oils to create scented crayons.
2. Chocolate crayons: Chocolate is another fun and unique material that can be used to make DIY crayons. Simply melt chocolate in a double boiler, and then pour it into silicone molds or other shapes. You can add food coloring or natural pigments to customize the color, and you can also add ingredients like nuts, dried fruit, or cookie bits to create textured crayons.
3. Glitter crayons: Add a touch of sparkle and shine to your crayons by incorporating glitter into the mixture. You can use loose glitter or glitter glue, and you can mix and match different colors and sizes to create crayons that are as unique as you are.
4. Confetti crayons: Add a pop of color and texture to your crayons by incorporating confetti into the mixture. You can use any type of confetti, including paper, foil, or plastic, and you can mix and match different colors and shapes to create crayons that are truly one-of-a-kind.
5. Natural materials crayons: Incorporate natural materials like herbs, spices, and flower petals into your crayon mixture to create crayons that are both colorful and fragrant. You can use a variety of natural materials to create crayons in different colors and scents, and you can even use natural materials to create textured crayons.

Conclusion

Making DIY crayons is a fun and creative project that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you are using old crayons, natural materials, or a combination of different materials, there are countless ways to customize and create your own crayons. From experimenting with different materials and shapes to incorporating glitter, confetti, and natural materials, the possibilities are endless.

DIY crayons are a great way to add a personal touch to your art supplies, and they make a unique and thoughtful gift for friends and family. So next time you’re feeling creative, why not give DIY crayon making a try? With a little patience and imagination, you can create crayons that are as unique and special as you are.