Ingredients
- 8 fluid ounces of clear-drying school glue, such as Elmer's
- 12 to 18 small pressed or fully dried flowers and leaves, each no larger than 2 inches
- 1 sheet of smooth plastic or a clear page protector, at least 8 inches by 10 inches
- 1 sheet of plain white paper, 8 inches by 10 inches, for a layout guide
- 1 small paintbrush, about 1/2 inch wide, with soft synthetic bristles
- 1 pair of craft tweezers, about 4 inches long (optional)
- 1 wooden skewer, 6 inches long, for nudging flowers and popping small bubbles
- 1 pair of scissors, 8 inches long, for trimming the finished shape
- 1 small mixing cup, 4 fluid ounces, for holding a little glue while you work
- 1 piece of cotton string, 12 inches long, for hanging
- 1 small hole punch, 1/8 inch or similar, for the hanging hole
- 1 disposable table covering, at least 24 inches by 30 inches
- 1 pair of nitrile or household gloves, medium or large (optional)
- 1 ruler, 12 inches long, for checking the finished size
Instructions
- Cover your table with a disposable surface to prevent sticky spots.
- Place the plastic sheet over the white paper guide.
- Sketch a simple oval, arch, or rounded rectangle on the paper, leaving at least a 1/2 inch margin.
- Pour about 2 fluid ounces of clear glue into the small cup and lightly load your brush.
- Spread a thin coat of glue inside the guide, aiming for an even, milky film.
- Let the base layer rest for 20 to 30 minutes until tacky but not pulling up on your fingertip.
- Arrange the dried flowers over the tacky surface, starting with the largest flower.
- Brush another thin coat of glue over the flowers, covering every petal lightly without scrubbing.
- Use the skewer to guide lifted edges down and pop any small bubbles.
- Allow the second layer to dry for 2 to 3 hours until clear and no longer wet.
- Add a final thin coat around the flowers and along the border.
- Let the finished sheet dry flat for 24 hours.
- Trim along the guide line with scissors once fully dry.
- Punch a small hole near the top and thread the cotton string through it, tying a small knot.
- Clean the brush and cup with warm water while the glue remains wet.
- Hang the suncatcher in a bright window.
Notes
Keep finished piece away from direct outdoor weather, steam, and unprotected wood surfaces to maintain quality.
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
