Better Art Supplies for Budding Artists

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PRODUCTS

Art Papers

*Construction paper, 10 percent PCW ($28.75/250 sheets; www.greenhome.com)

*Strathmore Windpower bristol boards and drawing papers, 30 percent PCW, made with 100 percent wind power ($5.95 to $19.95; www.reuels.com).

Crayons and Chalk

"Organic pigments have not been studied for toxicity," warns Rossol, adding that parents should be wary of non-toxic claims for natural or plant-based pigmented products, whether in crayons or paints. Choose soybean (or beeswax) crayons instead of petroleum-based products, after examining ingredient lists. Although Crayola's crayons are petroleum-based, they are one of the only companies to disclose the pigments in their crayons and are ensured of lower toxicity.

*Prang soybean crayons ($.59 to $5.15; www.dixonusa.com)

*Crayola standard crayons set ($1.59/24; www.officedepot.com)

*"No dust" chalk, assorted colors ($1.06; www.greenearthofficesupply.com)

Dyes

Use vegetable dyes such as coffee, tea, spinach or beets. See recipes at www.thegreenguide.com. (Note: Children should not use adult recipes listed in "Color by Nature.")

Glue

Look for these low-VOC options:

*Lineco methyl cellulose glue ($6.89/1.5 oz.; www.dickblick.com)

*Elmer's washable school glue sticks ($.88/.77 oz.; www.dickblick.com)

*Natural school glue ($.80/4 oz.; www.greenearthofficesupply.com)

Modeling Materials

Beeswax clays offer a PVC- and phthalate-free alternative:

*Stockmar beeswax modeling wax ($14/6 pc. and $25/15 pc.; www.ecobydesign.com)

*Alkena beeswax modeling clay ($14.25; www.wholefamilymarket.com)