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Description
Your child draws on paper with a white or light crayon - the drawing is nearly invisible at first - then brushes over the whole page with diluted paint or colored water. The wax resists the water and the hidden picture appears.
What to prep
- paper
- white_crayon
- washable_paint
- paintbrush
- cup
Play guide
- 1Give your child a sheet of white paper and a white or light-colored crayon. Encourage them to draw anything - shapes, letters, pictures - pressing firmly.
- 2Mix a color wash: diluted washable paint or watercolor in a small cup. A little paint goes a long way; aim for a transparent, watery wash.
- 3Give your child a wide paintbrush and let them brush the wash across the whole page in one direction.
- 4Watch as the wax drawing appears from underneath the color.
- 5Set flat to dry. Multiple color washes can be applied (letting each dry first) for layered effects.
Success signals
Your child draws freely with the nearly-invisible crayon without needing to see the result immediately. The reveal moment when the wash is applied generates visible surprise or excitement. They describe what their drawing was after seeing it appear.
If it's tricky
The resist effect is weak (crayon lines barely show): The child wasn't pressing hard enough - try again with more pressure, or use a new crayon. The wash is too dark (covers the crayon completely): Dilute with more water. Child wants to "see" their drawing before applying the wash: Reassure them it's there by tilting the paper to see the wax glint in the light. The paper buckles when wet: Use thicker paper next time; for now, press flat under a book while drying.