Coloring Outside the Lines: A Guide to Crayola’s Current and Recently Retired Hues
There’s a certain magic tied to a box of Crayola crayons. For generations, the distinct scent of wax and pigment, the sight of perfectly pointed tips in a rainbow of shades, and the promise of bringing imagination to life have been staples of childhood, art rooms, and creative endeavors worldwide. Crayola has become more than just a brand; it’s a cultural touchstone, synonymous with color and creativity.
This report serves as an expertly curated guide to navigate the vibrant, and sometimes changing, world of Crayola colors. It provides a definitive list of the standard crayon colors currently available, offering a snapshot of the palette accessible today. Furthermore, it delves into the recent history of the brand, documenting the specific colors that have been retired from the standard lineup over the past quarter-century (approximately 2000 to 2025), complete with their departure dates.
The Crayola color spectrum, however, is not a static display. It’s a living, breathing entity that evolves over time, reflecting shifts in trends, advancements in pigment technology, and, significantly, the passionate feedback of its dedicated users. Understanding this evolution is key to appreciating the current palette and the stories behind the colors that have bid farewell.
To provide clarity, the term “current standard colors” used throughout this report refers to the core range of crayons widely available and frequently listed in comprehensive assortments. This list is primarily synthesized from detailed resources like the official Crayola color database and meticulously maintained archival lists, cross-referenced for accuracy. It’s important to recognize that the exact colors found can vary depending on the specific crayon box size – a classic 24-count box will naturally contain fewer shades than a sprawling 120-count set. Additionally, Crayola frequently releases specialty sets (like Metallic, Neon, Glitter, or the inclusive Colors of the World) which feature unique shades beyond this standard scope.
The Current Crayola Crayon Rainbow: Your Official Palette
This section presents the roster of standard Crayola crayon colors currently in production, forming the backbone of the Crayola coloring experience. Compiling such a list requires careful synthesis, drawing from official brand information and dedicated color documentation resources. The colors listed below are those identified as being in continuous production up to the present day, representing the active standard palette available to creators.
The following table details these current standard colors. While larger sets may include more niche or specialty shades, these represent the core hues consistently manufactured and included in standard assortments.
Table 1: Current Standard Crayola Crayon Colors
| Color Name | Years in Production | Notes |
| Red | 1903–present | |
| Maroon | 1949–present | Known as “Dark Red”, 1949–1958. |
| Scarlet | 1998–present | Known as “Torch Red”, 1998. |
| Brick Red | 1958–present | |
| Chestnut | 1903–present | Known as “Indian Red” before 1999. |
| Mango Tango | 2003–present | |
| Sunset Orange | 1997–present | |
| Bittersweet | 1958–present | |
| Vivid Tangerine | 1990–present | |
| Burnt Orange | 1958–present | |
| Red-Orange | 1930–present | |
| Orange | 1903–present | |
| Macaroni and Cheese | 1993–present | Also found as “Macaroni & Cheese” and “Macaroni-n-Cheese”. |
| Yellow-Orange | 1930–present | |
| Banana Mania | 1998–present | Known as “Banana Bonanza”, 2015. |
| Goldenrod | 1903–present | Known as “Medium Chrome Yellow” (1903–?) and “Medium Yellow” (1903–1958). |
| Crayellow | 2021–present | Introduced for Colors of Kindness set. |
| Yellow | 1903–present | |
| Green-Yellow | 1958–present | |
| Olive Green | 1903–present | |
| Spring Green | 1958–present | |
| Canary | 1998–present | |
| Inchworm | 2003–present | |
| Yellow-Green | 1930–present | |
| Asparagus | 1993–present | |
| Granny Smith Apple | 1993–present | |
| Fern | 1998–present | |
| Green | 1903–present | |
| Forest Green | 1949–present | Known as “Dark Green”, 1949–1958. |
| Sea Green | 1949–present | Known as “Light Green”, 1949–1958. |
| Shamrock | 1993–present | |
| Mountain Meadow | 1998–present | |
| Jungle Green | 1990–present | |
| Caribbean Green | 1997–present | |
| Tropical Rain Forest | 1993–present | |
| Pine Green | 1958–present | Known as “Dark Chrome Green” or “Dark Green”, 1903–1949. |
| Cool Mint | 2021–present | Introduced for Colors of Kindness set. |
| Robin’s Egg Blue | 1993–present | |
| Aquamarine | 1949–present | Known as “Light Turquoise Blue”, 1949–1958. |
| Turquoise Blue | 1935–present | |
| Outer Space | 1998–present | |
| Sky Blue | 1958–present | |
| Blue-Green | 1949–present | Known as “Middle Blue-Green”, 1949–1958. |
| Pacific Blue | 1993–present | |
| Cerulean | 1990–present | |
| Midnight Blue | 1903–present | Known as “Prussian Blue”, 1903–1958. |
| Navy Blue | 1958–present | |
| Denim | 1993–present | |
| Blue (III) | 1949–present | Refers to the standard blue shade introduced in 1949. |
| Powder Blue | 2021–present | Introduced for Colors of Kindness set. |
| Cadet Blue | 1958–present | |
| Periwinkle | 1958–present | |
| Bluetiful | 2017–present | Introduced as the replacement for Dandelion. |
| Indigo | 2000–present | Introduced as the replacement for Thistle. |
| Manatee | 1998–present | |
| Wild Blue Yonder | 2003–present | |
| Blue Bell | 1998–present | |
| Blue-Violet | 1949–present | Known as “Violet”, 1949–1958. |
| Purple Heart | 1998–present | |
| Royal Purple | 1990–present | |
| Violet/Purple (II) | 1958–present | Labeled “Violet (Purple)”. |
| Wisteria | 1993–present | |
| Vivid Violet | 1997–present | |
| Purple Mountains’ Majesty | 1993–present | Also found as “Purple Mountain Majesty” and “Purple Mountain’s Majesty.” |
| Fuchsia | 1990–present | |
| Pink Flamingo | 1997–present | |
| Orchid | 1949–present | Known as “Medium Red-Violet”, 1949–1958. |
| Plum | 1958–present | |
| Red-Violet | 1930–present | |
| Jazzberry Jam | 2003–present | |
| Eggplant | 1998–present | |
| Magenta | 1903–present | Same color as “Permanent Magenta” (1903–?). |
| Cerise | 1993–present | |
| Wild Strawberry | 1990–present | |
| Lavender (II) | 1958–present | Refers to the standard lavender shade introduced in 1958. |
| Cotton Candy | 1998–present | |
| Carnation Pink | 1903–present | Known as “Rose Pink” (1903–1958) and “Pink” (1903–1917). |
| Violet-Red | 1958–present | |
| Razzmatazz | 1993–present | |
| Piggy Pink | 1998–present | Originally called “Pig Pink.” |
| Blush | 1998–present | Known as “Cranberry”, 1998–2005. |
| Tickle Me Pink | 1993–present | |
| Mauvelous | 1993–present | |
| Salmon | 1949–present | |
| Mahogany | 1949–present | |
| Melon | 1958–present | Also known as Light Red. |
| Pink Sherbert | 1998–present | Known as “Brink Pink”, 1998–2005. |
| Burnt Sienna | 1903–present | |
| Brown | 1903–present | |
| Sepia | 1958–present | |
| Fuzzy Wuzzy | 1998–present | Known as “Fuzzy Wuzzy Brown”, 1998–2005. |
| Beaver | 1998–present | |
| Tumbleweed | 1993–present | |
| Raw Sienna | 1958–present | |
| Tan | 1958–present | |
| Desert Sand | 1998–present | |
| Peach | 1903–present | Known as “Flesh Tint” (1903–1949), “Flesh” (1949–1956, 1958–1962), “Pink Beige” (1956–1958). |
| Apricot | 1958–present | |
| Almond | 1998–present | |
| Shadow | 1998–present | |
| Gold (II) | 1953–present | Metallic; available only in bulk, 1953–1956, standard inclusion later. |
| Silver | 1903–present | Metallic; available only in bulk, 1915–1944, standard inclusion later. |
| Copper | 1958–present | Metallic. |
| Antique Brass | 1998–present | Metallic. |
| Black | 1903–present | |
| Gray | 1926–present | Spelled “Grey” on labels, “Gray” on boxes. Also called “Neutral Grey”, 1930–1956. |
| Timberwolf | 1993–present | |
| Oatmeal | 2021–present | Introduced for Colors of Kindness set. |
| White | 1903–present |
Source: Synthesized primarily from , cross-referenced with. Note: Colors introduced in the 2021 “Colors of Kindness” set (Crayellow, Cool Mint, Powder Blue, Oatmeal) are included but may have different distribution than long-standing core colors.
While this table represents the core standard palette, the full Crayola universe extends much further. Specialty lines like “Colors of the World” offer a nuanced range of skin tones , while other sets provide effects like glitter, neon, or pearlescence. These exist alongside the standard colors but fall outside the primary scope of this report’s list.
Saying Goodbye: Colors Retired Since 2000
Retiring a Crayola crayon color is rarely a quiet affair. It’s often a publicized event, sometimes met with nostalgia, occasionally dismay, and always a testament to the strong connection people form with these simple sticks of wax. These retirements are part of the brand’s natural evolution, making way for new shades or reflecting changing tastes. However, they also function as strategic marketing moments, leveraging fan passion and the allure of scarcity to generate buzz and reinforce the brand’s cultural relevance. The act of retiring a color can transform it from a common tool into a sought-after collectible.
This section focuses specifically on the standard colors retired within the last 25 years, from 2000 to 2025, fulfilling the user’s request for recent changes to the palette.
Table 2: Crayola Colors Retired (2000-2025)
| Color Name | Year Retired | Context/Notes |
| Thistle | 2000 | Retired to make room for Indigo. |
| Blizzard Blue | 2003 | Retired during 100th Anniversary “Save the Shade” event. |
| Magic Mint | 2003 | Retired during 100th Anniversary “Save the Shade” event. |
| Mulberry | 2003 | Retired during 100th Anniversary “Save the Shade” event. |
| Teal Blue | 2003 | Retired during 100th Anniversary “Save the Shade” event. |
| Dandelion | 2017 | Retired on National Crayon Day, replaced by Bluetiful. |
Source: Compiled from.
Detailed Retirement Events Since 2000
Understanding the context surrounding these retirements reveals much about Crayola’s strategy and its relationship with consumers.
- 2000: Thistle Retires, a Name Changes: The turn of the millennium saw a subtle shift in the 120-count box. The pale purple hue, Thistle, was retired. Its departure made space for the deep, rich Indigo, adding a different dimension to the blue/violet family. Simultaneously, Crayola addressed a naming nuance: the fiery “Torch Red,” introduced just two years prior, was officially renamed “Scarlet”. This event illustrates how Crayola refines its palette not just through addition and subtraction, but also through evolving nomenclature, perhaps aiming for names with broader recognition or appeal.
- 2003: The Centennial Farewell: Crayola’s 100th anniversary in 2003 was marked by a significant public campaign called “Save the Shade”. Fans were invited to vote on which colors should be saved from retirement. Ultimately, four colors were voted out: Blizzard Blue (a cool, icy shade), Magic Mint (a vibrant light green), Mulberry (a deep reddish-purple), and Teal Blue (a greenish-blue). This event was a masterclass in leveraging fan engagement. By involving the public directly in the decision-making process, Crayola generated considerable excitement and media attention around its anniversary. The retirement of these four shades paved the way for the introduction of four new colors, themselves named by fans: the earthy green Inchworm, the vibrant reddish-purple Jazzberry Jam, the fruity orange Mango Tango, and the dusky blue Wild Blue Yonder. This entire campaign underscored how color retirement could be transformed into a participatory event, strengthening the bond between the brand and its audience.
- 2017: Dandelion Departs: Perhaps no crayon retirement captured the public imagination quite like that of Dandelion in 2017. Announced dramatically on National Crayon Day (March 31st), the removal of this cheerful, warm yellow sparked an outpouring of nostalgia and commentary online. It even gave rise to the “Dandelion Girl” phenomenon on social media, where one particularly devoted fan’s collection and affection for the color gained widespread attention. This reaction highlighted the deep emotional connections users form with specific shades, transforming them from mere art supplies into cherished pieces of personal history. Dandelion’s departure made way for a brand new blue, scientifically developed and named “Bluetiful,” which took its place in the crayon box. The Dandelion episode demonstrated vividly the power of nostalgia in consumer culture and how the fate of a single crayon color could become a significant cultural moment.
A Splash from the Past: The 2025 Retired Colors Revival
For years, the Crayola Hall of Fame seemed like a one-way street. Once retired, colors lived on primarily in memory and collectors’ boxes. However, responding to years of fan requests and capitalizing on the potent force of nostalgia, Crayola made an unprecedented move in 2025: for the first time in its history, the company brought back a selection of retired colors for a limited-edition run.
This “un-retirement” was heavily influenced by the passionate fanbase, with the company explicitly citing the outpouring of requests, particularly for the beloved Dandelion, as a key factor in the decision. This move serves multiple purposes: it delights long-time fans, introduces newer generations to classic shades, and strategically leverages the brand’s rich history.
The eight colors chosen for this limited revival span several decades of Crayola history:
- Dandelion (Retired 2017)
- Blizzard Blue (Retired 2003)
- Magic Mint (Retired 2003)
- Mulberry (Retired 2003)
- Orange Red (Retired 1990)
- Violet Blue (Retired 1990)
- Lemon Yellow (Retired 1990)
- Raw Umber (Retired 1990)
Source:
Four of these returning colors (Dandelion, Blizzard Blue, Magic Mint, Mulberry) fall within the post-2000 retirement window examined in this report. Their temporary return underscores the idea that retirement isn’t necessarily permanent, adding a layer of collectibility and potential future value to colors currently considered “retired.”
Significantly, this revival wasn’t limited to crayons. Crayola also released these eight nostalgic shades in limited-edition colored pencil and marker packs, allowing fans to experience these classic colors across different mediums, many for the first time.
Further emphasizing the strategic nature of this campaign, Crayola partnered with various lifestyle, fashion, and beauty brands, including notable names like Lee, Caboodles, and S’well, to create custom programs and products inspired by the limited-edition colors. This cross-promotional effort demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of brand synergy, extending the reach of the nostalgic campaign beyond traditional art supplies and into broader consumer markets. The 2025 revival is thus more than just bringing back old colors; it’s a carefully orchestrated event designed to engage fans, leverage nostalgia, and reinforce Crayola’s iconic status in contemporary culture.
Conclusion: An Ever-Evolving Palette
The world of Crayola crayons is a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of tradition, innovation, and deeply felt consumer connection. As this report has detailed, the standard palette currently offers a broad spectrum of colors, from foundational hues present since 1903 to more recent additions reflecting modern tastes. Yet, this palette is not immutable.
The retirements within the last quarter-century – Thistle in 2000; Blizzard Blue, Magic Mint, Mulberry, and Teal Blue in 2003; and the much-discussed Dandelion in 2017 – highlight the dynamic nature of the Crayola lineup. These changes are driven by various factors, including the need to make space for new innovations like Indigo and Bluetiful, responses to cultural shifts evident in earlier name changes like “Flesh” to “Peach” or “Indian Red” to “Chestnut” , and strategic marketing initiatives like the 2003 “Save the Shade” contest.
The unprecedented limited-edition return of eight retired colors in 2025, including four retired since 2000, serves as a powerful reminder of the cyclical potential within the Crayola universe. Driven by persistent fan nostalgia and demand, this event demonstrates that retirement doesn’t always signify a final farewell. It suggests a long-term brand strategy where history itself becomes a valuable asset, capable of being revisited and remarketed to new and existing audiences.
Ultimately, the Crayola color spectrum is more than just a list of names and pigments. It’s a reflection of cultural moments, marketing ingenuity, and the enduring power of color to spark creativity and forge lasting memories. Whether rediscovering a long-lost favorite or embracing a brand-new shade, the simple act of choosing a Crayola crayon continues to connect generations through the universal language of color.
Works cited
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