DIY Sea Shell Crayons
These DIY sea shell crayons are a fun and creative activity that kids will love! They’re quick and easy to make, using up-cycled crayons you probably have at home.
Peeling and breaking crayons isn’t just satisfying, it supports a variety of developmental skills depending on the age group you’re working with.
Why This Activity Is Great for Kids
Peeling crayons strengthens fine motor skills.
Breaking crayons supports bilateral coordination (using both hands together).
Structured art-making encourages sequencing, instruction comprehension, and self-confidence.
Materials Needed
Bowl
Crayons - I used two 24 crayons which yielded 48 thick-sized shells.
Oven
Baking sheet
Directions
Preheat oven to 250°F.
Fill a bowl with warm water and soak crayons for 10–15 minutes.
Peel off the paper wrappers.
Break crayons into small pieces.
Place pieces into silicone molds, filling to the top (they will melt down and shrink).
Bake on a baking sheet for 10–15 minutes, or until fully melted.
Remove from oven and let cool completely before removing from molds.
🐚📖Summer Bonus :
Purchase Everyone’s An Artist and receive two sea shell crayons! (Complete “Summer Bundle” shown below, sold separately)
Age Recommendation for Melted Crayon Hearts
Ages 2–3:
Children can help peel crayon wrappers and break crayons with supervision.
Expect assistance—this is more of a shared sensory and fine-motor activity.
Ages 3–4:
Most kids can independently break crayons using both hands.
Peeling wrappers and filling molds are great for building coordination and focus.
Ages 4–6:
Kids can complete most steps independently (except oven use).
They can sort colors, make design choices, and help fill molds with intention.
Ages 6+
Children can fully participate in prep and creative decisions, with adults handling the oven.