Ingredients
- 1 wooden embroidery hoop, 5 inches across
- 1 clear plastic sheet, 5 inches square, cut from packaging or a clear craft sheet
- 2 tablespoons clear-drying craft glue, such as Elmer’s clear glue or another washable clear-drying glue
- 1 tablespoon water for thinning the glue slightly
- 6 to 10 small dried flowers or pressed flower pieces, each no larger than 1 inch
- 1 small paintbrush, about 1/2 inch wide, with soft synthetic bristles
- 1 small paper plate or plastic lid for mixing
- 1 wooden skewer or toothpick for moving flowers and releasing bubbles
- 1 piece of ribbon or cotton cord, 8 inches long, for hanging
- 1 pair of scissors, household size
- 1 sheet of fine sandpaper, 220 grit, for smoothing the hoop if needed
- 1 plastic table covering or drop cloth, at least 24 by 36 inches
- 1 pair of disposable nitrile gloves, optional for keeping glue off your hands
- 4 pieces of painter's tape, each about 2 inches long, for holding the plastic sheet in place
- 1 flat drying surface, such as a baking sheet or piece of cardboard, at least 8 inches square
Instructions
- Cover your table first with the plastic drop cloth or another washable covering.
- Gather the hoop, plastic sheet, glue, flowers, brush, tape, and drying surface.
- Separate the two parts of the embroidery hoop and place the inner ring over the clear plastic sheet.
- Trace around the outside of the ring with a pencil, then cut just inside the line.
- Place the cut plastic sheet on the flat drying surface and hold its corners with the four pieces of painter's tape.
- Pour 2 tablespoons of clear-drying glue into the paper plate or plastic lid.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of water with the paintbrush until the mixture looks smooth and flows slowly from the bristles.
- Brush a thin circle of glue over the center of the plastic sheet, leaving about 1/4 inch uncovered around the edge.
- Arrange 6 to 10 small dried flowers on the wet glue, placing the largest flowers first.
- Press each flower lightly with the clean tip of the wooden skewer to make sure it contacts the glue.
- Let the first layer dry for 2 to 3 hours, then brush on a second thin coat of the remaining glue mixture.
- Check the surface after another 2 to 3 hours and apply a small amount of glue over any raised or exposed petals.
- Let the completed center dry undisturbed for 24 hours.
- Remove the tape and place the dried plastic center inside the wooden hoop.
- Fit the outer ring over it and tighten the screw slowly, checking that the plastic stays centered.
- Trim the plastic edge with scissors if it extends beyond the outside of the hoop.
- Tie the 8-inch ribbon or cotton cord through the metal screw loop to hang the suncatcher.
Notes
This project is beginner friendly and allows for a calming crafting experience. Use thin layers of glue for the best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
