Heart Suncatchers

crayola supplies

Crayons
Erasable Colored Pencils
Blunt-Tip Scissors

household supplies

recycled newspaper
hole punch
iron (for adult use only!)
wax paper
pencil sharpener
ribbon, string, or yarn

Why

Add pizzazz to your windows with these beautiful heart suncatchers. They're made from colorful Crayola® crayon shavings.

Steps

1. Draw various sizes of hearts on paper with Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils.
2. Cover a flat work area that is safe for ironing with several layers of recycled newspaper. Place a piece of wax paper on top.
3. With an adult supervising, scrape Crayola crayons into small pieces using a pencil sharpener.
4. Scatter the crayon colors around the wax paper. Place another sheet of wax paper on top.
5. Ask an adult to iron the two pieces together, melting the crayons. Cool.
6. Trace your various shapes of hearts on the waxed paper. Cut out the multicolored hearts with Crayola scissors. Punch a hole near the top. Use ribbon or yarn to make a hanger for your Heart Suncatchers. Or use the hearts on the front of a Valentine's Day or other holiday card.Whenever crayons are heated for an art activity, provide adult supervision and conduct melted crayon techniques in a well-ventilated area. Ironing should be done by an adult. Overheating wax crayons during melting or ironing may release irritating fumes.

When & Where

"We crush broken crayon pieces in plastic bags. Kids make different suncatcher shapes for each season!"
- Rosalita T., family child care provider.

"These suncatchers look beautiful in our all-purpose room windows. Seniors did the ironing for the kids!"
- Jim N., school volunteer.

Interesting Info

The first Valentine's Day card is said to have been sent by a French knight held captive in the Tower of London named Charles, Duke of Orleans. It is believed he sent his wife a card in 1415, after he was captured in the Battle of Agincourt.

Safety Guidelines

Adult Assistance is required for this arts & crafts project.

Fabric Crayons or Melting Crayons—Melt crayons in a well-ventilated area. Overheating wax crayons during melting or ironing may release irritating fumes. Ironing should be done by an adult.

Scissors—ATTENTION: The cutting edges of scissors are sharp and care should be taken whenever cutting or handling. Blunt-tip scissors should be used only by children 4 years and older. Pointed-tip scissors should be used only by children 6 years and older.

String-Like Materials—Includes string, raffia, lacing, yarn, ribbon, and other similar material. Children 3 years and younger should not be given any string-like material that is longer than 12 inches. Close adult supervision is essential whenever children use string-like material. When crafts are to be worn around the necks of children 8 years and younger, attach the ends of the “string-like material” with clear adhesive tape, which allows easy release of the bond if the craft becomes entangled or caught on equipment. For children older than 8 years, the ends of the “string-like material” may be tied and knotted.

Windows—Be sure windows are securely closed and locked before decorating. An adult must closely supervise the activity.