Our Story
Crayola has inspired creativity since the first box of Crayola crayons rolled off the assembly line in 1903. The Crayola brand has grown into a portfolio of innovative art tools, crafting activities, and creative toys that inspire kids to explore, discover, play, pretend, and dream.
Crayola is committed to nurturing creativity as a lifelong journey. From sparking a child’s first artistic adventure and helping parents and educators raise creatively alive children, to inspiring adults to embrace their imaginations, the brand empowers individuals of all ages to explore, discover, celebrate and connect through creative moments.
The company began when cousins Edwin Binney and C. Harold Smith took over Edwin's father's pigment business in 1885. Early products included red oxide pigment used as barn paint and carbon black used in car tires. After noticing a need for safe, high quality, affordable wax crayons, in 1903, Crayola produced the first box of eight crayons and sold them for 5 cents.
Crayola has been a business of Hallmark Cards since 1984 and has offices in Canada, Mexico, Italy, Australia, Asia, and the United Kingdom.
The Company carried the name of its founders, Binney & Smith, until 2007 when we changed our name to Crayola to reflect our No. 1 brand.
The Company’s world headquarters and major manufacturing facilities are located in Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, its home since the early 1900’s. Beyond manufacturing Crayola products, Crayola also manufactures Silly Putty, creates entertainment through Crayola Studios and Crayola Experience attractions, and supports fundraising for a variety of non-profit agencies through Crayola Flowers.
Through its innovative and vibrant portfolio of art tools and learning resources, licensed offerings and partnerships, toys, live action and animated content, and digital and location-based experiences, the iconic brand has unleashed imaginations and enabled colorful self-expression for more than 120 years.