Ingredients
- 8 fluid ounces clear washable school glue, such as Elmer's clear school glue
- 1 sheet clear plastic or a smooth plastic page protector, at least 8 by 10 inches
- 1 small plate or bowl, about 5 inches across, for tracing
- 1 pencil
- 1 craft stick, 5 to 6 inches long, for spreading
- 1 tablespoon translucent tissue paper scraps, cut into pieces about 1/2 inch wide
- 1 tablespoon small flat plastic beads or translucent craft gems, optional
- 1 tablespoon iridescent cellophane scraps, cut into pieces about 1/2 inch wide
- 1 piece lightweight ribbon or cord, 12 inches long, for hanging
- 1 small paintbrush, about 1/4 inch wide, for moving glue at the edge
- 1 pair scissors, 4 to 6 inches long
- 1 sheet parchment paper, at least 12 by 12 inches, for protecting the table
- 1 disposable table covering, at least 2 by 3 feet
- 1 pair nitrile or vinyl craft gloves, optional
- 1 ruler, 12 inches long, optional
- 1 small cup of clean water, 4 fluid ounces, for rinsing the brush
Instructions
- Cover your table first with parchment paper and a disposable covering to protect it from glue spots.
- Lay the clear plastic sheet on top of the parchment paper and trace a 5-inch circle using the small plate.
- Pour about 4 fluid ounces of the clear glue into the center of the circle and use the craft stick to spread it outward to create a thin layer.
- Use the small paintbrush to pull stray glue back inside the traced circle, rinsing it in clean water when it drags.
- Add about half of the tissue paper pieces across the wet glue, leaving small windows of clear glue between them.
- Scatter the iridescent cellophane pieces and small flat plastic beads or translucent gems if using, keeping heavier pieces away from the outer edge.
- Pour the remaining 4 fluid ounces of clear glue slowly over the color, guiding it to the edge with the craft stick.
- Tap the plastic sheet lightly on the table to release small bubbles, guiding larger bubbles toward the edge with the craft stick.
- Fold the 12-inch ribbon or cord in half, place the ends into the wet glue at the top of the circle, and add a dab of glue over the ends to secure.
- Leave the piece undisturbed for 24 hours to dry; check the outer edge and wait longer if it feels cool or tacky.
- Once fully dry, gently peel the suncatcher from the plastic, trim any glue strings with scissors, and smooth the edge with your fingers.
- Hang the finished piece with the ribbon loop, ensuring the color side faces the window.
Notes
This project uses scissors and wet glue; supervise children closely. Work in a ventilated room and wash hands after making.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
