Ingredients
- 8 fluid ounces clear school glue
- 1 small sheet of pressed dried flowers, about 4 inches by 6 inches
- 1 piece of clear plastic, silicone, or acetate, at least 6 inches by 6 inches
- 1 round template, 4 inches in diameter
- 1 small synthetic paintbrush, about 1/2 inch wide
- 1 small detail paintbrush, about 1/8 inch wide
- 1 plastic palette knife or old gift card, 1 piece
- 1 piece of parchment paper or wax paper, at least 12 inches by 12 inches
- 1 roll of painter’s tape, 3/4 inch wide
- 1 pair of disposable nitrile gloves, 1 pair (optional)
- 1 small paper cup, 1 cup capacity
- 1 wooden toothpick, 1 piece
- 1 piece of clear fishing line, 12 inches long
- 1 small hand punch or single-hole punch, 1 piece
- 1 lint-free cloth, 1 piece
Instructions
- Cover the work surface with parchment paper or wax paper, securing the corners with painter’s tape.
- Wipe the clear plastic or silicone surface with a lint-free cloth.
- Place the 4-inch round template beneath the clear surface.
- Sort the dried flowers and choose larger blooms for the center and smaller petals for the outer spaces.
- Pour about 2 tablespoons of clear school glue into the paper cup.
- Use the 1/2-inch brush to spread a very thin coat of glue inside the 4-inch circle.
- Let the base coat sit for 10 to 15 minutes until slightly tacky.
- Arrange the flowers on the tacky circle, pressing each lightly with the tip of the clean toothpick.
- Use the detail brush to dab a thin coat of glue over the flowers.
- Leave the piece flat for 30 to 45 minutes, then add a second thin coat using the 1/2-inch brush.
- Check for bubbles while the second coat still looks wet and use a toothpick to open any bubbles.
- Let the piece rest for at least 12 hours before adding a final coat.
- Allow the finished circle to dry flat for 24 to 48 hours.
- Peel the suncatcher away slowly once it is dry, using a palette knife if necessary.
- Punch a hole near the top, thread the fishing line through it, and tie a small double knot.
- Clean the brush and palette knife with warm water while the glue remains wet.
- Remove the painter’s tape from the work surface.
Notes
This project yields a delicate suncatcher that may fade over time if exposed to direct sunlight. It makes a thoughtful gift for friends or loved ones.
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
