The faint scent of wax, a sensory memory that instantly transports me. To a cluttered desk, maybe. To the thrill of a fresh box, crayons perfectly pointed and eager to create. Because yes, after decades of analyzing color palettes and pigment integrity (I am a children’s art therapist, after all), I’ve returned to the Crayola 24-count box.

This particular offering, the two-pack, is a school supply mainstay for a reason. The color range is deliberately chosen – enough variety to fuel budding imaginations without overwhelming them. The waxy texture? A sweet spot. It glides beautifully over standard paper without crumbling excessively, unlike some off-brand alternatives I’ve endured, which deposit sad, patchy streaks. Furthermore, the classic cylindrical design, and the durable paper wrapping, are designed for tiny hands. A smart choice for developing fine motor skills and holding things with accuracy. I appreciate that the company hasn’t messed with a good thing.

Let’s be clear: these aren’t high-end artist crayons. The pigment load is less dense than what you’d find in professional-grade options, like, say, Prismacolor or Caran d’Ache. But this is precisely the point. Too much pigment can feel intimidating for a beginner. The lighter, less intense hues in Crayola crayons are wonderfully forgiving, encouraging experimentation without the pressure of perfection. And trust me, in therapy sessions, perfection is the last thing we want.

That said, the “purple” in these sets, like many classic Crayola offerings, leans towards a rather aggressive magenta. (A subtle crimson shift would be ideal, but hey, can’t have everything, right?) But for the typical child, who isn’t grading colors with the precise eye of a seasoned art critic, the error is minor, easy to ignore. A quick blending with the accompanying blue will fix the problem, if it truly bothers you.

Ultimately, this isn’t a groundbreaking product. But it’s a reliable, affordable classic, perfect for schools, home projects, and rainy-day activities. If you have a child between the ages of 4 and 10? Buy this set. You really won’t regret it.