Both the Maurer family of Houston, Texas, and the Wianecki family of Barnegat, New Jersey, wrote in to tell us they wax romantic come Valentine's Day. The families gather crayon nubs and recycle them into swirly, useable valentines. We can't think of a better way to say, "I melt for you."

Materials

• Crayon pieces
• Heart-shaped metal cookie or muffin tin (our hearts are about 1 1/2 inches across)
• Scrap paper
• Double-sided foam mounting tape

• Scissors
• Colored card stock
• Marker

Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 250°.

2. Fill each mold with crayon pieces and bake until the crayons melt, about 10 to 15 minutes. Tip: Place a sheet pan under the crayons to catch any drips.

3. Once they're cool, remove the hearts from the molds and smooth any rough edges by rubbing them on a piece of scrap paper.

4. Use small pieces of foam tape to stick each heart to a 3-inch circle cut from card stock -- or use our template, then add your message.
   
   Suggested messages:
   You color my world
   Valentine, you make my heart melt
   Have a happy Valentine's Day, for "crayon" out loud!

You might also like:

Find more about:

• 1-2 Hours |
• Cards |
• Drawing Supplies |
• Hearts |
• Recycled Crafts |
• School Age |
• Valentine's Day

Related Categories:

• Valentine's Day Cards |
• Recyclable Crafts |
• February 2007