Creating flower suncatchers is a fun spring and summer project that also makes a sweet handmade Mother’s Day gift. Press dried flowers between two layers of clear plastic from an upcycled container for surprising results.
When suncatchers hang in a window, the flowers and leaves create a stained-glass effect.
SUPPLIES
Clear recycled plastic container lid (from large salad mix or baked goods)
Scissors
Pencil or pen
Paintbrush
Clear glue
Dried, flat flowers and stems (purchased from a craft store or dried yourself)
Tweezers
Optional: cup for glue
Waxed paper or parchment
A heavy book
Ribbon, twine or string
Optional: hole punch
Optional: metal Mason jar ring as frame
DIRECTIONS
1) Cover workspace with an open paper bag, placemat or plastic cloth.
2) Cut two pieces from the clear plastic container to desired shape and size.
If you use a Mason jar ring as a frame, trace around the outside of the ring for sizing.
3) Paint a coat of clear glue onto one piece of plastic.
4) Carefully arrange flowers and stems into a design. Using tweezers for this step is helpful.
5) Paint a coat of clear glue onto the other piece of plastic and carefully place it on top of the flower design.
6) Place the suncatcher between two pieces of waxed or parchment paper and put a heavy book on top of it. Let it dry for 24–48 hours.
7) If needed, punch a hole in the top of the suncatcher.
If using the Mason jar ring as a frame, tie a piece of twine or ribbon around the frame,
then loop an additional piece of twine through that to hang it (no hole punch needed, in that case).
8) Hang your suncatcher in a sunny window or wrap as a gift for Mother’s Day!
Alyssa Navapanich is an award-winning art educator who teaches art to elementary school kids in East San Diego County.
