National Etch A Sketch Day

A child holding an Etch A Sketch, wearing colourful clothes, surrounded by a playground, with a rainbow in the sky.. — National etch a sketch day illustration

Welcome to the wonderful world of National Etch A Sketch Day! Prepare to be amazed as we dive into the fascinating history of this iconic toy. Get ready to shake things up and create beautiful works of art without any messy paint or pencils. Let the magical knobs of the Etch A Sketch take you on a journey of imagination and creativity!

When is Etch A Sketch Day?

It's national etch a sketch day on the 13th July.

The Birth of the Etch A Sketch

On this special day, we celebrate the invention of an extraordinary toy that has captivated both kids and adults for generations. The Etch A Sketch was introduced to the world on July 12, 1960, by a brilliant French inventor named André Cassagnes. Can you believe it's been around for over six decades?

The magic of the Etch A Sketch lies in its simple yet genius design. With its iconic red plastic frame and two white knobs, this magical toy allows you to create intricate drawings and designs by turning the knobs to manipulate a stylus that moves a metal pointer across the surface covered in aluminum powder. It's like drawing with a magic wand!

Etch A Sketch in Popular Culture

Over the years, the Etch A Sketch has become an integral part of popular culture. It has made appearances in movies, TV shows, and even political campaigns! Who could forget the iconic scene in the movie "Toy Story" where Woody and Buzz Lightyear try to master the art of Etch A Sketching? It's clear that this little red marvel has a special place in our hearts.

Etch A Sketch Tips and Tricks

Etch A Sketching may seem simple, but mastering it takes some skill and practice. Here are a few tips to help you create incredible masterpieces:

Start with simple shapes: Begin by drawing basic shapes like squares, circles, and triangles to get a feel for how the knobs control the stylus.
Don't be afraid to shake it up: If you're not happy with your drawing, give the Etch A Sketch a good shake and start fresh. It's a clean slate every time!
Experiment with angles: Learning how to create angles and curves will open up a whole new world of possibilities.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the largest Etch A Sketch ever created measures a whopping 8 feet by 12 feet? This giant masterpiece was unveiled in 2018 and took over 100 hours to complete. Talk about thinking big!

History behind the term 'Etch A Sketch'

1955

L'Harmattan creates the Telecran

In 1955, a French company named L'Harmattan introduced a mechanical drawing toy called the Telecran. It consisted of a small plastic screen with a knob on each side and a stylus attached with strings. Turning the knobs would move the stylus and create drawings on the screen.

1959

Birth of the toy

The term 'etch a sketch' originated in 1959 with the creation of the popular mechanical drawing toy. The toy was invented by French electrician André Cassagnes. Originally named 'L'Ecran Magique' (The Magic Screen), it was later marketed as 'Etch A Sketch' by the Ohio Art Company.

1958

Etch A Sketch is developed

The concept of the Telecran caught the attention of a French inventor named André Cassagnes. In 1958, Cassagnes came up with an improved version and called it the 'L'Ecran Magique' or 'Magic Screen'. It had a clear plastic screen filled with aluminum powder and used a stylus controlled with knobs to etch lines on the screen.

1960

Introduction to the public

In 1960, the 'Etch A Sketch' was first presented to the public at the International Toy Fair in Nuremberg, Germany. It quickly gained popularity among children and adults alike. The toy featured a red plastic frame with two white knobs that controlled a stylus and horizontal and vertical aluminum powder-coated screens, creating an etch-like drawing effect.

1959

Etch A Sketch is introduced in the United States

In 1959, the Ohio Art Company saw potential in Cassagnes' invention and decided to bring it to the United States. They renamed it the 'Etch A Sketch' and introduced it as a new toy. It quickly became a popular drawing and sketching tool for both children and adults.

1960

Entry into production

After its successful introduction, the 'Etch A Sketch' went into mass production. The Ohio Art Company started producing and distributing the toy to various markets worldwide. Its unique drawing mechanism and easy-to-use design captured the imagination of people across different age groups.

1960

Etch A Sketch wins prestigious Toy of the Year award

The success of the Etch A Sketch was recognized when it won the prestigious 'Toy of the Year' award in 1960. This accolade further boosted its popularity and solidified its place in toy history.

1960s

Cultural icon

Throughout the 1960s, the 'Etch A Sketch' became a cultural icon and a symbol of creativity. It provided an outlet for artistic expression and inspired countless individuals, including renowned artists, to create intricate and impressive drawings using the limited capabilities of the toy's knobs and screens.

1980

The animated Etch A Sketch drawing in 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial'

One of the most notable cultural impacts of the Etch A Sketch came in 1980 with the release of the iconic movie 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial'. In the film, there is a scene where the main character Elliott uses an Etch A Sketch to draw a picture of E.T., making it a memorable moment in cinema history.

1998

Induction into the National Toy Hall of Fame

In 1998, the 'Etch A Sketch' was recognized for its enduring popularity and innovation. It was inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame in Rochester, New York. This honor cemented its status as an iconic toy and celebrated its contribution to the world of play and imagination.

2003

Etch A Sketch joins the National Toy Hall of Fame

In 2003, the Etch A Sketch was formally recognized for its significance and impact on the toy industry. It was inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame, joining the ranks of other beloved toys that have shaped childhood experiences.

Present

Continuing legacy

Today, the 'Etch A Sketch' remains a beloved toy and a symbol of nostalgia. It has influenced generations of artists and continues to captivate people with its unique drawing experience. The term 'Etch A Sketch' has transcended its original context to become synonymous with any intricate or complex process that requires precision and skill.