I’ve been taking some baby steps into being a little more crafty these days. I tend to get frustrated when things don’t work right for me the first time, and life with a 7-month-old doesn’t really allow for all the time that comes along with creation trial and error.

My first honest effort came as inspiration behind items for Fox’s (long) upcoming first birthday party goodie bags. His party is camping themed, so among many camping related items for the bags I wanted to add in crayons molded into words like “bonfire,” “tent,” and “canoe.” Thus began my extremely easy journey into the easiest DIY I’ve ever performed: making crayons.

Here were my supplies:

A box of crayons (I got these from the Dollar Store) and silicone molds. I used these, but I suggest the less expensive version here. The less expensive version is rated five stars and uses inverted letters, which will lend for a prettier face to your crayons, rather than see the backside.

The first thing you want to do is peel the paper off all of your crayons. I found that the easiest way to do this was with a spare veggie peeler (also from the Dollar Store). I suggest you do this for your kids so there are no cut fingers and then let them do the fun stuff later.

Just make one slice down the side like this.

The paper will then peel off in one sheet.

Once you have your crayon wrappers peeled, preheat your oven to 250 degrees F. Then line a cookie sheet with foil and place silicone trays on top.

Break your crayons into small pieces and drop into the silicone trays.

Put in the oven for about 5-10 minutes.

Pull out and let cool.

Mine took about half an hour at room temperature, but you can expedite the process by throwing in the freezer.

Ta-da! These serve as awesome gifts and party favors, and they are sure to bring the whole family together for time well spent. There’s nothing like creating something you can use after!

XO, Sarabeth

P.S. You can make more than just letters with this tutorial! Here are a few other options for silicone molds.