When arranged in a heart shape, the crayon shavings we used to create colorful butterflies as children can reap decidedly more romantic results. As Martha and her two young friends Blaney and Meghan demonstrate, the process is easy, requiring only waxed paper, a pencil sharpener, crayons, a bone folder, and a warm iron. And best of all, the result is endearing -- a vividly hued, handcrafted valentine affectionately inscribed to the one you love.

To make, shave the crayons using a pencil sharpener. Sprinkle the shavings on waxed paper (keep in mind that the more liberal you are with the shavings, the more opaque the color will be). Fold the paper in half, then fold the edges to prevent the melted-crayon mixture from leaking. To make the card's frame, fold a piece of construction paper in half, and cut it to the size of an envelope. Gently fold it in half again, and draw half of a heart on the fold line. Cut out the heart, unfold, and smooth out the crease using a bone folder.

Iron the folded waxed paper on a medium setting until the shavings melt. To prevent leaks, place a few sheets of scrap paper on the top and the bottom. Cut the "stained glass" waxed paper slightly smaller than card. Slip the waxed paper inside the card, and tape it closed using double-sided tape. Write a greeting for the recipient, and slip the card inside an envelope; or hang it from the window as a festive decoration.

Special Thanks
Blaney Rotanz and Meghan Prior