Vintage Caterpillar Crayon Holder with Blue Hat – 6 Slot Pencil Holder

A retro caterpillar-shaped crayon holder in cream plastic with colourful dots and a blue hat. Holds up to six crayons. Marked “013” on the back of the head, this charming novelty item is a fun piece of 1980s stationery nostalgia.

This cheerful caterpillar crayon holder features a smiling face topped with a blue hat and colourful spots along its body. Made of cream moulded plastic, it is designed to hold up to six crayons, making it both playful and practical. The figure measures approximately 150 x 70 x 30mm and is marked “013” on the back of the head.

These types of novelty holders were popular as children’s desk accessories in the 1980s, often sold through discount shops, toy aisles, and stationery sections. While unbranded, they are recognisable for their bright, cheerful designs aimed at making art supplies fun for kids.

This example remains in good vintage condition, with three original crayons included in the photos. A quirky collectible for retro toy and stationery fans alike.

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Features

Measurement: 150 × 70 × 30 mm

Condition: Excellent

Markings: "013"

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Dating Note:Date is an estimate based on available research and stylistic features. If you have additional information, please contact us to help update our records.

Made from the following materials

Hard plastic dolls and toys emerged as a significant innovation in the toy industry during the mid-20th century, revolutionizing the way dolls were designed and manufactured. Hard plastic is a type of thermoplastic, characterized by its durability, lightweight nature, and resistance to breakage. This material became popular for creating dolls, action figures, and various toys due to its versatility and ability to hold intricate details and vibrant colors.

The development of hard plastic allowed for the mass production of toys that were not only affordable but also more resilient than earlier materials like composition or porcelain. As a result, manufacturers were able to produce a wide variety of designs, from classic baby dolls to trendy fashion figures, each with detailed facial features and movable limbs. This material also enabled the incorporation of new techniques, such as molded hair and painted eyes, which enhanced the realism and appeal of the dolls.

Among the earliest forms of hard plastic used in toy manufacturing was **Bakelite**, created in the early 1900s by Belgian chemist Leo Baekeland. Bakelite is one of the first synthetic plastics, made from phenol and formaldehyde. Its properties, including heat resistance and electrical insulation, made it ideal for various applications, including toys. While Bakelite itself is not commonly used in doll-making today, its introduction paved the way for the development of modern plastics in the toy industry.

**Catalin** is another early form of hard plastic that emerged in the 1930s and was often used for creating vibrant toys and dolls. Like Bakelite, Catalin is a thermosetting plastic known for its durability and ability to hold color well. Catalin toys often featured bright, translucent colors and intricate designs, capturing the imaginations of children and collectors alike.

As hard plastic became the standard for many types of dolls and toys, it solidified its place in the industry, leading to the creation of iconic brands and beloved characters. Today, hard plastic dolls and toys continue to be popular, appreciated for their longevity and the nostalgia they evoke. Collectors value vintage hard plastic toys for their craftsmanship and the unique place they hold in the history of toy making.

At our museum, we celebrate the legacy of hard plastic dolls and toys, highlighting their role in shaping the modern toy industry and their enduring appeal across generations.