One of my favorite things in the Montessori classroom is the way they set out their art materials as though they are something to be treasured and displayed. The colored pencils are organized into matching colored holders (like these), and I’ve always wanted a set of my own (but not for $75!). Truth be told, my boys will use colored pencils and markers any day of the week, but crayons seem to always get passed over in favor of practically any other medium. Those poor, poor crayons needed some love and respect around here. I thought that maybe if I set out the crayons in a pretty display that the boys would be more apt to use them on a regular basis – and I was right!
While packing school lunches one evening, I realized that these fruit cups would be the perfect size for crayon holders. So, instead of being patient and waiting for a bunch of empty cups at the end of the week, I started opening and dumping seven containers of fruit into a big Tupperware for storage – hey, they can always be reportioned into little Tupperware containers for lunches – I’ve got to get moving on this inspiration!
If you’re lucky enough to have a rainbow of spray paint, it would really come in handy right about now. I only had about half the rainbow, so after removing the labels, I used acrylic paint to give each can three coats of paint followed by two coats of glossy varnish to seal it. Mitch rummaged up a piece of scrap 1×3 for me, and I made use of my white spray paint to give it a quick coat.
Mitch screwed each can to the piece of wood for me (thank you!), because I’m not quite as handy with the drill as he is.
The boys are loving crayons these days – yippee! I’ve been able to leave them sitting out on their art table for over two weeks now without a single spill or crayon mess mishap…though you might find yourself getting into serious in-depth discussions with your three-year-old over whether aquamarine belongs in the green or the blue container 🙂
Heidi Kundin has captivated the hearts of millions with her colorful and inspiring approach to crafting, celebrations, and family fun. With over 15 years of experience, Happiness is Homemade has become a must-visit destination for those seeking quick and easy creative ideas and last-minute solutions. Heidi’s warm personality shines through her posts, inviting readers to join her on a creative journey that’s fun, rewarding, and achievable. Heidi is also the author of Homemade Bath Bombs & More and DIY Tie-Dye.
This is a very creative idea! My hubby used to get (a little) upset with me for saving “stuff” in the basement to repurpose. Having a home daycare requires (for me) creating ideas and activities that are at little or not cost. Now he gets it and adds things to the “stockpile.”
Thanks for sharing your idea!
love it!
Obviously your post filled a need…and in an elegant way. Thanks for sharing! This will be great for our preschool and also as repost on facebook for our parents!
http://sunshinehouseCA.com
I love this idea, it’s so cute! I’m looking for crayon storage and just might give this a try.
How did you get rid of the sharp edges?? I am thinking of making this for Children’s Chapel in our church but I’m worried about edges…!
Awesome idea. Do you need to sand the sharp edges of the cans ? How did you manage to do the painting without it ? Can you please advise ?
Thanks
Great idea! I would also appreciate an answer about if the edges are sharp. Thank you.
The edges of my particular cans are not sharp, but I would recommend lining the interior rim with Duck Tape or Gorilla Tape just to ensure additional safety. 🙂
I love your creative ideas–recycling the fruit cans. Thank you for sharing your wonderful ideas here. Blessings.
I know this is an old post of yours but I just found it and it’s AWESOME! I’m featuring you on Flexible Dreams tomorrow, January 8, 2011. Stop by and grab a button if you’d like.
I love this idea. Fantastic inspiration!
I’m adding this to my Weekend Links–thanks for the great idea.
This is adorable and totally amazing. I think my hubby and I better get to work making one of these! It would be perfect for my classroom too!
This is so pretty. I’m adding it to my to do list
Whoa, that is awesome!! I’m definitely going to start saving my fruit cans & make one for my girl. She would love it. Thanks for sharing!!
Happy New Year!
~Mary
Wow, that is gorgeous.
This is adorable!
Fantastic! I love how you attached the cans to a board. Makes tipping them over ‘accidently’ that much harder, LOL!
~Kimberlee
http://www.TheSpunkyDiva.com
Gorgeous!
So beautiful! I love it!
love it!! im going to forward this to my preschool friends!
Gotta make one of these! So clever!