Project

Crayon Gift Set

Break the crayon mold with a Technicolor DIY set.

Photography: Chelsea Cavanaugh

Source: Martha Stewart Living, December 2017

Introduction

Using natural beeswax and carnauba wax, nontoxic dyes, and silicone ice molds (like these Lego-style blocks and gemstones, above), you can create a playful collection that's super-comfy in little hands. Pack them up in a wooden slider box so cleanup time is simple and swift.

materials

Template for label

Saucepan or double boiler (one not used for food)

1 cup white beeswax pellets (Pictured: Mary Tylor Naturals organic white beeswax pellets, $13 for 16 oz., amazon.com)

1 cup carnauba wax flakes (Pictured: Oslove Organics carnauba wax flakes, $19 for 1 lb., amazon.com)

Stirrer

Paper cups

Variety of silicone ice or chocolate molds

Natural powder pigments (Pictured: Primary pigments set, from $17 for 5 colors, earthpigments.com)

Unfinished wooden pencil box (Pictured: Creative Hobbies unfinished wooden storage box, $6.50, amazon.com)

Shredded wood (Pictured: Quality Growers Aspen Wood Collection Excelsior wood shavings, $4 for 565 cubic in., amazon.com)

steps

In saucepan or double boiler, melt beeswax pellets and wax flakes together. Stir until smooth.
For each crayon, pour a small amount of mixture into a paper cup, then add pigment until desired color is reached, stirring until incorporated. Pour into mold and let cool completely. Repeat with other colors and shapes.
Add shredded wood to inside of box; place crayons on top. Download and print out labels; attach with glue or tape.