History of Crayola crayons

History of Crayola Crayons

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A box of Crayola crayons

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A box of Crayola crayons

The history of Crayola crayons is a fascinating journey that traces the development of one of the most iconic art supplies in the world. Crayola crayons have been a staple in classrooms and homes since their introduction in the early 20th century, and their evolution reflects changes in technology, marketing, and education.

Early Beginnings

The story of Crayola crayons begins with the Binney & Smith Company, which was founded in 1885 by cousins Edwin Binney and C. Harold Smith. Originally, the company focused on producing industrial pigments and carbon black for car tires. However, the founders soon saw an opportunity to expand into the educational market.

In 1903, Binney & Smith introduced the first box of Crayola crayons. The name "Crayola" was coined by Edwin Binney's wife, Alice Stead Binney, who combined the French word "craie," meaning "chalk," with "ola," from "oleaginous," meaning "oily." The original box contained eight colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet, brown, and black.

Expansion and Innovation

An early Crayola advertisement from 1905

The success of the initial Crayola crayons led to the expansion of the product line. By 1905, Binney & Smith had introduced a variety of crayon boxes with different color assortments and sizes. The company continued to innovate, developing new colors and improving the quality of the crayons.

In 1949, Crayola introduced the "No. 48" box, which included 48 different colors, a significant expansion from the original eight. This set the stage for further expansions, including the famous "No. 64" box introduced in 1958, which featured a built-in sharpener.

Cultural Impact

Crayola crayons have had a significant cultural impact, becoming synonymous with childhood creativity and education. They have been used by generations of children for art projects, school assignments, and personal expression. The brand has also been featured in various forms of media, including television shows, movies, and literature.

Modern Developments

In recent years, Crayola has continued to innovate by introducing new products and colors. The company has embraced digital technology, offering apps and online tools that complement their traditional products. Crayola has also focused on sustainability, developing crayons made from renewable resources and recycled materials.

Also see

• Binney & Smith Company
• History of art materials
• Color theory
• Educational toys

References

• "Crayola: The History of Crayons." Crayola.com. Accessed October 2023.
• "The Colorful History of Crayola Crayons." Smithsonian Magazine. Accessed October 2023.