Crayola Color Wonder Fun Desk ~*~ no miracle or wonder
Written: Jun 27 '01 (Updated Sep 01 '03)
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Pros: Unique, Portable, Cute Color Book Pictures
Cons: Faint Chemical-like Odor, Costly for Group Use
The Bottom Line: While the idea is a jewel and I like Crayola Color Wonder, I feel the price puts them out of range for group usage.
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| Lisa_J's Full Review: Crayola Color Wonder Fun Desk |
One may easily pronounce that Crayola is about much more than crayons! One of the newer products to hit the market is the Color Wonder lineup. Basically these products are based around unique ink that is only visible on special paper. Products available include marker pens, stampers, paper, and coloring books. The package presentation varies from simply including paper and markers, to a desk or tote.
The conception of this lineup was based on the hopes of introducing a product that would allow children to use markers without succumbing to the accidental body painting, marks on desk surfaces, clothing, or other off limit surfaces. And, of coarse, the chance to increase marketing revenue * wink *. Concept is definitely a marvelous one. Anyone, who has children or works with them, knows all too well that the youngest child adores markers. However, markers can be rather messy.
While the idea is a jewel, these products lack the lustrous appeal with some. Personally, I like them, but feel the price puts them out of range for school / day care / or preschool usage. However, it is a worthy investment for the occasional in-home use. It is also my opinion Color Wonder products will make a good gift option.
Introduction to Playville
Our introduction to this line was a recent one! While assisting a good friend move, I realized that my youngest daughter was in need of some activities. Because everything at my friends new home was packed, and the weather wasn’t favorable, my daughter was stuck inside with little to do. So, on a trip over to Walmart in search of a few cleaning supplies, I decided to acquire a couple items for Marisa. The Crayola Color Wonder Fun Desk caught my interest.
This item initially appealed to me because of its inclusive portability, and possible ability to succumb lengthy interest. Also, an inspiring incentive was the mess free claim. I was sure this purchase would pay for itself through child usage. At $15.99 this unit has met my expectation for a diversion and for an on-the-go toy.
The desk unit itself measures approximately 13.6 x 13.8 x 6.0, is primarily green – with a white desk top, and weighs (with contents included) just under 5 lbs. Recommended age for play is 3 years of age and up. My daughter is 6 years old. Enough items are included with the initial purchase to entertain your child for a substantial time.
When you lift the white desk panel, a storage compartment is revealed that will hold the eight Color Wonder Markers, Color Wonder Coloring Book & Color Wonder Tablet. The panel has two clips that allow your child to slide the coloring book or paper under. Directly above the white desk surface, there is a dipped holder that easily stores the markers for quick color time accessibility. Below the desk surface is a carrying handle.
Overall Thought
My daughter is pleased with this set. The initial use was lengthy – to the point of coloring all 24 pages within the initial color book. She continues to occasional use the desk and contents. It is easy to store, tote, and was worth the initial investment. It accompanied us to her recent 9.5-hour dance recital day, to a doctor visit, and was used during an afternoon while ill. I would purchase again, and will give these items for gifts in the future.
However, this line is no miracle or wonder. I like the fact that the coloring book doesn’t allow coloring outside of the lines. This feature is great for encouraging younger artists. Some children may feel stifled by that fact, but I think there is a place for it, and it goes with the mess free concept. Don’t expect true vivid colors. The colors are pretty, but do not depict what a normal marker would portray.
Also, a faint – offensive (chemical like) odor is emitted from the paper, markers, and color book. It is mild, but may be a deterrent for some.
I adore the pictures provided within the coloring books! They have bold lines, larger drawings, and are easy for the young child to successfully color. I only wish copyright stuff wasn’t an issue….. or I would be photocopying these prints for preschool use!
Original Purchase Price / Package Includes:
Eight Markers
~Brown
~Yellow
~Purple
~Black
~Orange
~Green
~Blue
~Red
Portable Desk
~13.6 x 13.8 x 6.0
30 Sheet Color Wonder Paper Pad
24 Page Color Wonder Mess Free Animals Coloring Book
Additional Expenditure
Since the initial purchase, we have returned to Walmart to buy more coloring books:
~Outdoor Fun
~Circus Fun
~Sports
These were priced at 7.99 each.
The Color Wonder line appears to be readily available at our local Walmart. You may also obtain items online at Crayola website:
www.crayola.com
This site offers other Crayola items, arts and craft ideas, and much more. Be sure to visit!
Warning
This product carries what appears to be a ~*~guarantee~*~ within the labeling: Mess Free Color Wonder. Please be alerted to the fact that staining may occur. We haven’t experienced a challenge, but it is possible.
"Color Wonder Markers and Stamp Pads are invisible on most common household surfaces. However, they may slightly alter the appearance of some surfaces, such as vinyl, leather and finished/unfinished wood. Wiping off Color Wonder ink before it dries may prevent this change in appearance."
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Recommended Crayola Purchases:
Crayola ERASABLE Twistables Crayons
Crayola Twistables Crayons
Crayola Rainbow Twistables Crayons
Crayola 24 Blenders And Basics
Crayola Art Buddy Back Pack
Crayola 96 Crayons
Crayola Bathtub Crayons
Crayola Gel FX Crayons
Crayola Erasable 10 ct. Colored Pencils
Online Shopping:
The Crayola Store
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Thank you for reading!
© 2001 Lisa_J
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 15.99
Type of Toy: Arts and Crafts
Age Range of Child: 3 to 5 Years
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Epinions.com ID:
Lisa_J
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Location: Pacific Northwest - Washington State
Reviews written: 1010
Trusted by: 668 members
About Me:
Mom of two wonderfully spirited daughters. Childcare Director. Spectator fan of dance.
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