How to Make Crayon Star Sun Catchers: A Colorful DIY Craft

Brighten up your windows with these charming, melt-and-make crayon star sun catchers! This easy DIY project is perfect for kids and adults alike, offering a fun way to upcycle old crayons while creating vibrant, light-catching decorations. Whether you’re crafting with little ones or just looking for a nostalgic creative activity, these sun catchers add a cheerful pop of color to any sunny window.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather these simple supplies:

• Old crayons (the more colors, the better!)
• Wax paper (for the colorful base)
• Parchment paper (to protect your iron)
• Manual sharpener or knife (for crayon shavings)
• Iron (low heat works best)
• Star stencil or cookie cutter (for shaping)
• Baker’s twine or string (for hanging)
• Hole punch (optional, for threading)

Step-by-Step Method

1. Peel & Prep

Remove all paper wrappers from the crayons. Save every colorful scrap—broken crayons work perfectly for this project!

2. Shave & Sprinkle

Use a manual sharpener or knife to grate the crayons into tiny shavings. Alternatively, chop them finely. Scatter the shavings onto a sheet of wax paper, mixing colors for a rainbow effect.

3. Fold & Seal

Fold the wax paper over the crayon shavings, creating a “crayon sandwich.” Ensure the shavings are evenly spread before sealing.

4. Melt the Magic

Place the wax paper between two sheets of parchment paper (to protect your iron). Set your iron to low heat and gently press for 5–10 seconds until the crayons melt. Let it cool completely.

5. Cut the Stars

Once cooled, trace star shapes using a stencil or cookie cutter, then carefully cut them out.

6. String & Shine

Punch a small hole at the top of each star, thread with baker’s twine, and hang in a sunny window to catch the light!

Pro Tips for the Best Results

• Layer colors for a marbled effect—just avoid over-melting to keep the colors distinct.
• No star cutter? Freehand draw shapes or use other templates like hearts, clouds, or moons.
• Add extra sparkle by sprinkling glitter between the wax paper layers before ironing.
• Experiment with patterns—try gradients or color blocking for different visual effects.

FAQs

Can I use crayon pieces instead of shavings?

Yes! Small crayon chunks will melt just as well, though shavings create a smoother, more blended look.

What if I don’t have wax paper?

Parchment paper can work in a pinch, but wax paper helps the colors adhere better. Avoid plastic wrap, as it can melt unevenly.

How long do these sun catchers last?

If kept indoors and away from direct heat, they can last for months. Over time, sunlight may slightly fade the colors.

Can I make these without an iron?

You can try a hairdryer on high heat, but an iron provides the most even melt.

Final Thoughts

These crayon star sun catchers are a delightful way to repurpose old art supplies and add a touch of whimsy to your home. Simple enough for kids yet satisfying for crafters of all ages, this project combines creativity with sustainability. Hang them in a sunny spot and watch the colors glow—happy crafting!