Create a Custom Eyeshadow Palette Using Crayons

You guys. I seriously can’t believe I’m about to say this, but… crayons. Are. Makeup. Let me say it again louder for the people in the back: YOU CAN MAKE EYESHADOW FROM CRAYONS. And I know how wild that sounds but hear me out. It actually works, it looks pretty, and it’s so fun to do. Plus you get to make your very own custom-eyeshadow shades. Like, who needs Sephora when you’ve got Crayola?

I’ve been playing around with DIY beauty recipes for a while now and this one? This one feels like a little bit of glam meets art class nostalgia. And you don’t even need a ton of complicated stuff. If you’ve got crayons, coconut oil, and a microwave, you’re halfway there.

Oh ;  and if anyone’s side-eyeing this thinking it’s unsafe? GIRL. We’re not just melting random school crayons straight onto our eyelids. I’ll walk you through how to do it safely, smartly, and cutely. Let’s get into it.

Why Use Crayons Anyway?

Okay so first of all: Crayons come in a RIDICULOUS number of colors. There’s everything from your classic dusty rose to highlighter yellow. You can totally make neutral nudes, bold neons, or literally any aesthetic you’re vibing with right now.

Second: They’re literally wax-based pigments. Kinda like actual makeup. The big difference is the additives that are usually in commercial formulas for texture, blend, wear time, etc. But we can add stuff to fix that.

Also, this is sooo cheap it’s kind of silly. A pack of crayons costs what;  two bucks? And they’ll last for months depending on how many shades you make. Custom makeup without spending your whole paycheck? Yes please.

Wait, Is It Safe to Use Crayons on Your Face?

K this one’s important. You can’t use just any crayons. You want ones labeled non-toxic, like the legit kind little kids nibble on and survive.

Only use non-toxic crayons labeled safe for children, and avoid novelty or scented types that may contain sketchy ingredients

Crayola is pretty much the go-to choice because they’re straight-up tested for safety. You’re not eating it ;  obviously ;  but the skin around your eyes is super delicate, so you still have to be careful, cleanse your eyelids after wearing, and don’t sleep in it.

Have sensitive skin? Patch test on your arm first. If it itches, burns, or does anything weird: don’t use it. Play it safe.

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

Let’s keep it chill and easy. Here’s what you need:

Optional but cute: Add some shimmer pigment or mica powder if you want sparkle. Totally optional, but incredibly fun.

How to Make Your Custom Crayon Eyeshadow Shades

Okay here’s where it gets really fun. Let’s go step by step and I swear it’s not hard. It just feels like doing a tiny science experiment mixed with makeup magic.

Step 1: Peel and Chop

Break out your crayons and pick your colors. Peel the paper wrappers off (this takes longer than you’d think, so maybe cue up some music). Then chop them into tiny chunks with a knife on a cutting board.

You’re using about ¼ of a crayon for one shade. Trust me. A little goes a long way.

Step 2: Time to Melt

In a microwave-safe container, pop in your crayon chunks and about half a teaspoon of coconut oil.

Microwave it in short bursts, like 10 seconds, then stir. Then 10 seconds again. Watch closely. Don’t overheat. It should melt into a smooth little puddle of color.

If it starts bubbling or smoking, you’ve gone too far. Let it cool and start a fresh batch ;  safety first.

Step 3: Mix It Up

Once it’s melted, use your toothpick or spatula to stir stir stir until it’s totally smooth.

Add shimmer here if you’re feeling it. Like a pinch of mica powder or highlighter dust. Boom. Instant glow-up.

If it feels too thick or sticky, add a teeny bit more coconut oil. If it’s too runny, add more pigment or just let it cool down and thicken naturally.

Step 4: Pour Into Containers

Quickly, while it’s still warm, spoon or pour your mixture into your container. You can use empty eyeshadow pans, tiny jars, lip balm tins ;  whatever you have.

Let it cool and harden at room temperature. Or chill it in the fridge for like 10 to 15 minutes if you’re impatient like me.

Once it’s solid, pop it into your custom palette or organize your pastel army however you want.

Pro Tip: Label Your Shades

Honestly, you’ll forget which shade is which by tomorrow if you don’t. Get a Sharpie or label maker and name them something epic. Think: “Sassy Moonlight,” “Drama Club Mauve,” or “Caffeinated Mermaid.” Go wild.

What Shades Should You Try?

If you’re overwhelmed by choices, here are some combos that almost always slap:

Mix & Match Vibes

Just play! Blink a few colors together. Swatch on your wrist. You’ll start figuring out what looks bomb and what flops. Some shades go muddy together and that’s okay. You’re learning your color game.

How Do They Perform IRL?

So here’s the thing. DIY eyeshadow from crayons obviously isn’t gonna last 12 hours through a rave or a sweaty gym day. But for everyday selfies, chill hangs, or even practice looks ;  they’re super cute.

They go on smooth, have decent color pay-off, and blend better if you warm them slightly before applying. Just scoop a small bit with a brush or fingertip and tap gently onto primer.

Use an eye primer underneath to help them stay. Or set them with translucent powder if they feel too glossy.

“Creativity takes courage.” ;  Henri Matisse

Clean Up and Storage

After application, don’t forget to do a gentle cleanse. Use micellar water or a gentle face cleanser to remove everything. Again, treat those eyelids with respect. They DO put up with a lot.

Also, store your little DIY shadows at room temperature. If your house is hot, they might melt a bit. I sometimes stick mine in the fridge when it’s extra warm, and that totally works.

So Is It Worth It?

Honestly? Yes. It’s creative, cool, and super personal.

There’s just something different about wearing an eyeshadow color you literally made yourself. Nobody else on TikTok has it, and that’s kind of amazing.

Someone asks what shade you’re wearing and you’re like, “I made it in my kitchen.” Iconic.

Will it replace your Huda palettes? Probably not. But it’s amazing for experimenting, learning color theory, getting artsy, or just having a little self-care craft night.

If you’re the kind of person who doodled all over their school notes and also knows Charlotte Tilbury’s lipstick names by heart ;  then this little DIY is so your thing.

Try it. Play. Make a mess. Layer weird shades. See what works.

Final random tip: Make a matching lip balm. You’re already melting stuff with coconut oil anyway. Double dip that beauty alchemy mood.

Let me know if you do this ;  tag me on Insta or whatever. And show me your palette! I wanna see your wildest shade names. Like, seriously send me “Toxic Unicorn,” “Main Character Vibes,” or “Bitter About July.” I’m obsessed already.

Til next time: stay pretty, stay creative, and don’t be afraid to color outside the lines. Literally. You’re the artist and your face is the canvas.

Okay I’m done being cheesy now. Go melt some crayons.