Crayola Crayon Maker Instructions

The Basics

• This product, which uses a light bulb to melt wax, can cause burns if not used correctly. Children younger than 8 should not use the crayon maker. An adult should always plug and unplug the machine, change the bulb when necessary and supervise children while they use it. Be sure to plug the toy into a regular wall outlet, not one with multiple adapters, and put the toy on a level surface while using and storing. Don't overload the melting tray; use a single layer of crayons. Be sure the halves of the mold fit together and the frame is snapped on securely so that melted wax won't leak while you're making crayons. Turn the timer knob in a clockwise direction only, and don't heat the melting tray in any type of oven or microwave. Don't obstruct the vent holes in the cover while you're using the toy. And don't attempt to open the lid while you're making crayons, since the lid locks. Wait for the lid to unlock to avoid the risk of burning yourself.

First Use

• An adult should put the bulb in for the first time. Be sure the toy is unplugged and open the lid. Using a Phillips screwdriver, loosen the two screws in the bulb compartment cover and lift the cover off. Insert a 60-watt candelabra light bulb and tighten it, but don't overtighten. Put the bulb compartment cover back on and replace the screws. Put the melting tray over the cover, printing side up, and snap it into position using the supports on the front of the cover.

Crayon Making

• Have an adult plug the crayon maker in and turn the switch on. Put the halves of the mold together and press down on all four sides and the center. Snap the frame on securely. Turn the tabs toward the middle, with the word "Crayola" facing out. Unwrap your crayons and break them into small pieces. The pieces should be no longer than 1 inch. Use several colors for a "swirled" look. Put the crayons in the melting tray. Don't use crayon shavings, since they'll damage the toy.

  Close the lid and turn the timer to the light bulb icon, which will then light up. The timer will start ticking. Don't try to open the lid during the cycle, which will take about 25 minutes. When the timer knob moves to the "time to pour" icon, after 12 to 14 minutes, the light will go off. Turn the pour control to the "pour" icon, which will release the melted wax into your mold.

  After another 10 to 12 minutes, the timer will reach the "cool" position. The light then goes off and the lid unlocks. Twist the control knob to the "melt" symbol, which lowers the melting tray, then open the lid.

  Push the tabs on the mold away from the middle and take the mold out of the machine. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes, then carefully pull the top half of the mold away from the crayons. Turn the bottom half upside down and push on it to expel the crayons. Have an adult turn the toy off and unplug it.

  To clean up, slide the melting tray out the back of the machine and pull it out. Use a plastic scraper or knife to remove any wax. Don't use metal utensils of any kind, since they'll damage the tray.