Are you tired of throwing away old crayons and colored pencils that are no longer usable? Think again! These art supplies may have outlived their useful life, but they still have plenty of creative potential. From crafting to DIY home decor, there are numerous ways to repurpose old crayons and colored pencils. In this article, we’ll explore 20 surprising uses for these forgotten art supplies.
Reinvent Them for Art’s Sake
Transform old crayons into new ones: You can melt old crayons to create new, multi-colored crayons. Simply sort the crayons by color, peel the wrappers, and melt them in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Pour the melted mixture into a silicone crayon mold or a paper cup, and let it cool. Once hardened, remove the new crayon from the mold, and you’re ready to color again!
Make Artistic Accents
- Use old crayons as decorative accents for greeting cards, gift tags, or scrapbook pages. Simply melt the crayons, and drizzle the melted wax onto your project.
- Create a crayon resist art piece by applying melted crayon to a piece of paper, then painting over it with watercolor paint. The crayon will resist the paint, creating a beautiful, layered design.
Bring Color to Your Home Decor
Melted Crayon Art
- Create a stunning melted crayon art piece by arranging crayons on a canvas or piece of wood, then heating them with a hairdryer or heat gun until they melt and blend together.
- Use old crayons to make a colorful, abstract art piece on a ceramic vase or plate. Simply arrange the crayons on the surface, then bake the item in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the crayons melt and set.
DIY Colored Pencil Wind Chimes
- Use old colored pencils to create a unique wind chime. Simply glue the pencils together in a visually appealing arrangement, then attach a metal ring or string to create a hanger. Add small bells or other noise makers for a musical touch.
Get Crafty with Kids
Colored Pencil Sculptures
- Encourage kids to unleash their creativity by using old colored pencils to create three-dimensional sculptures. Simply glue the pencils together, then add other materials like paper, glue, or tape to create a unique piece of art.
Homemade Playdough
- Mix old crayons with flour, water, and cream of tartar to create a vibrant, handmade playdough. This activity is perfect for kids, as it develops their fine motor skills and encourages creativity.
Give Back and Get Organized
Donate to a Good Cause
- Consider donating gently used crayons and colored pencils to local schools, hospitals, or non-profit organizations. These art supplies can bring joy and creativity to those who may not have access to them otherwise.
Organize Your Art Supplies
- Use empty crayon boxes or containers to store small art supplies like paper clips, pushpins, or beads. Label the containers, and you’ll have a tidy, organized art space.
Make a Statement with Fashion
Colored Pencil Jewelry
- Create a unique piece of jewelry by gluing old colored pencils together in a pattern, then attaching a jump ring and string or chain. This colorful accessory is sure to make a statement.
Customize Your Shoes
- Use old crayons to add a pop of color to your shoes. Simply melt the crayons, then apply the melted wax to the desired area using a paintbrush or sponge. Let it cool, then seal with a clear coat of varnish.
Upcycle into Functional Items
Colored Pencil Coasters
- Protect your furniture from water marks and add a splash of color with DIY coasters made from old colored pencils. Simply glue the pencils together, then seal with a clear coat of varnish.
Cricket-Inspired Plant Markers
- Use old crayons to create colorful plant markers that resemble crickets. Simply melt the crayons, then pour the mixture into a silicone cricket-shaped mold. Once hardened, remove the marker, and use it to label your plants.
Explore Science and Technology
Conduct a Crayon Melting Experiment
- Engage your kids in a fun science experiment by exploring the properties of melting crayons. Simply place a crayon on a heat-resistant surface, then heat it with a hairdryer or heat gun. Observe how the wax melts and changes color.
Create a Homemade Lava Lamp
- Use old crayons to create a homemade lava lamp. Simply melt the crayons in a microwave-safe bowl, then mix with vegetable oil and water. Add food coloring and Alka-Seltzer tablets for a mesmerizing effect.
In conclusion, old crayons and colored pencils don’t have to end up in the trash. With a little creativity, you can transform them into unique art pieces, functional items, and even educational tools. So, next time you’re tempted to throw away those worn-out art supplies, think twice – you might just unleash a masterpiece!
What kind of old crayons and colored pencils can I use for these creative projects?
You can use any type of old crayons and colored pencils that you have lying around, regardless of their condition or brand. Even broken or worn-out crayons can still be used for many of the projects listed in the article. Just make sure to clean them up before starting your project. You can also sort them by color or type to make it easier to find the perfect shade or texture for your project.
Additionally, you don’t need to limit yourself to traditional wax crayons or colored pencils. You can also use oil pastels, chalk pastels, or even watercolor pencils to add more variety to your creations. The key is to experiment and have fun with the materials you have on hand. With a little creativity, you can turn old, discarded art supplies into something truly unique and special.
Are these projects suitable for children?
Many of the projects listed in the article are perfect for kids, such as making colorful collages, decorating picture frames, or creating custom coloring books. In fact, using old crayons and colored pencils can be a great way to encourage kids to think creatively and develop their fine motor skills. Just be sure to supervise young children when they’re working with sharp objects or materials that may be a choking hazard.
However, some projects may be more suitable for older kids or adults, especially those that require more complex techniques or materials. For example, making custom candles or soap requires working with heat and sharp objects, so it’s best left to older kids or adults. But with a little creativity, you can adapt many of the projects to suit children of all ages and skill levels.
Do I need special equipment or tools for these projects?
For many of the projects listed in the article, you can get started with basic crafting supplies, such as glue, scissors, and paper. However, some projects may require special equipment or tools, such as a hot glue gun, a heat embosser, or a drill. Don’t worry if you don’t have these tools on hand – you can often find alternative methods or substitutes that will still produce great results.
If you’re new to crafting or DIY projects, you may want to start with simpler projects that require minimal equipment. As you become more confident and experienced, you can invest in more specialized tools or equipment to take your projects to the next level. The key is to have fun and be creative, regardless of the tools or materials you have available.
Can I sell the projects I make with old crayons and colored pencils?
Many of the projects listed in the article can be sold online or at local craft fairs, provided you follow any applicable laws and regulations. If you’re planning to sell your creations, make sure to research any local ordinances or copyright laws that may apply. You may also want to consider branding your products with a unique name or logo to differentiate them from others.
However, keep in mind that some projects may be more suitable for personal use or gifts, rather than commercial sale. For example, if you’re making decorative items for your own home, you may not need to worry about copyright laws or liability issues. Always prioritize ethical and legal practices when selling your creations, and be sure to disclose any materials or processes used in your projects.
How can I store and organize my old crayons and colored pencils?
Storing and organizing your old crayons and colored pencils can be a great way to keep them tidy and within reach. You can use small containers, baskets, or bins to store your supplies, and label them by color, type, or project. You can also use dividers or compartments to separate different types of materials, making it easier to find what you need when you need it.
Another idea is to repurpose old containers or items, such as muffin tins, egg cartons, or wooden crates, to store your supplies. This not only reduces waste but also adds a touch of creativity to your workspace. Just be sure to clean and dry your containers before storing your art supplies, to prevent moisture or mildew from damaging your materials.
Can I use other types of recycled materials in my projects?
The projects listed in the article are just a starting point for your creativity. You can incorporate other types of recycled materials, such as paper towel rolls, cardboard tubes, or fabric scraps, to add texture, color, and interest to your projects. In fact, combining different types of recycled materials can create truly unique and eye-catching creations.
Just be sure to clean and prepare your materials before using them, and think creatively about how you can repurpose them in your projects. For example, you could use old CDs to create decorative mirrors, or use plastic bottles to make wind chimes. The possibilities are endless, and the more creative you are, the more amazing your projects will be.
What if I’m not crafty or creative – can I still make these projects?
The beauty of the projects listed in the article is that they’re designed to be fun and accessible, regardless of your skill level or creative background. You don’t need to be a skilled artist or crafter to make these projects – just a willingness to experiment and have fun.
In fact, many of the projects are designed to be forgiving, so even if you make mistakes or encounter unexpected results, you can still turn them into something unique and beautiful. Don’t be afraid to try new things, ask for help or advice, or modify the projects to suit your skills and style. With practice and patience, you’ll be amazed at what you can create with old crayons and colored pencils.