Crayola is a brand that has been around for over a century. It has become a household name, and millions of people around the world know it as the company that produces some of the best quality coloring materials. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of Crayola, the different products offered, and their impact on art and creative expression.
Crayola was originally called Binney and Smith, and it was founded in 1885 by Edwin Binney and C. Harold Smith. The company started as a manufacturer of red oxide pigments that were used for coloring rubber products, leather, and asphalt. Binney and Smith started experimenting with different colorants in their lab, and in 1903, they produced their first box of crayons which had eight colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet, brown, and black. This box of crayons was called “Staonal Markers”.
In 1904, Binney and Smith renamed their product line “Crayola”, which is a combination of the words “craie” (French for “chalk”) and “ola” (short for “oleaginous”, which means “oily”). The company began marketing its crayons to schools, and they quickly became popular with teachers, students, and parents. The first box of Crayola crayons had only eight colors, but over the years, the company has released new colors and packaging, and today, the standard box has 24 crayons.
Crayola also produces colored pencils, markers, and paints, and each product line has its own unique features. The colored pencils are made with high-quality pigments that provide vibrant colors and smooth blending. The markers have been popular with artists and designers because they offer a broad range of colors and different tip sizes. The paints come in a variety of textures and formulas, including tempera, watercolor, and acrylic.
Crayola has had a significant impact on art and creative expression. By providing children with high-quality art supplies, the company has helped nurture creativity and imagination. Artists and designers have also used Crayola products in their work, and the company’s markers and colored pencils have been used in fashion design, graphic design, and even architecture.
Crayola has also been a leader in promoting social responsibility and sustainability. The company has introduced several initiatives to reduce waste, recycle materials, and promote responsible manufacturing. Crayola’s products are made with non-toxic materials and are safe for children and adults to use.
In recent years, Crayola has expanded its product line to include digital products. The company released an app called Crayola Color Alive, which uses augmented reality technology to bring coloring pages to life. Children can use their smartphones and tablets to see their creations come to life in 3D animation.
In conclusion, Crayola has been a staple in homes, schools, and art studios for over a century. The company’s commitment to quality, creativity, and social responsibility has made it one of the most beloved brands in the world. Whether you are a child, an artist, or someone who just loves to color, Crayola has something for you.