Adult Melted Crayon Art Projects
Crayons are made from a blend of paraffin wax and pigment. This type of wax melts at a very low temperature, approximately 125 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit. These temperatures can be reached with any microwave or convection oven, making it possible to melt old crayons at home. Crayon crafts involve use of the oven and contact with hot wax, so adult participation is required.
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New Crayons
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Use shavings and broken crayon pieces to give your old crayons new life. Melt wax in a double boiler or place pieces in a paper cup and use the microwave. Pour wax into a muffin cup, metal cookie cutter, candy forms, or silicon pan. Allow crayons to cool and set overnight before use. Using this method you can make crayons with custom colors and shapes.
Egg Decorating
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A pysanka is traditional Ukrainian art form in which beeswax is used to create layers of color on the surface of an egg. You can use crayons of undesirable colors to practice pysanky styling techniques. Although the low melting temperature makes paraffin a poor substitute, you can practice your finger positioning and melting technique without fear of wasted materials. Undyed eggs decorated with melted crayons may be displayed as they are; they will have a glossy, smeared appearance.
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Ice Crayons
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Use ice to create an unpredictable crayon sculpture. Fill a paper cup or carton with ice cubes and shards. Pour melted wax into the container. The ice will cause hollow pockets to form in the poured structure. Experiment by using ice of different sizes and shapes. To make your sculpture a candle, heat a metal skewer in the oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Using pot holders, insert the skewer into the center of the block. When the wax cools, insert a wick into the hole and secure on the underside with a metal wick tab.
Crayon Stalagmites
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Stalagmites are mineral structures that occur in underground caverns; they are built when water drips onto the floor and deposits minerals on the ground. Over hundreds of years, the minerals layer and harden to form free-standing structures, stalagmites. Form your own stalagmites in minutes with melted crayons and ice water. Drip wax onto a sturdy surface until the desired shape is reached. Slowly pour the water over the structure to harden the surface. Continue adding layers and cooling the structure.
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References
- Photo Credit crayons image by timur1970 from Fotolia.com
