Ingredients
- 1 clean plastic lid, about 5 inches across
- 3 tablespoons clear-drying school or craft glue
- 6 to 10 small pieces of translucent tissue paper, each about 1/2 inch to 1 inch wide, in 3 to 5 colors
- 1 small paintbrush, about 1/2 inch wide
- 1 wooden toothpick
- 1 small paper cup or reusable dish, for holding glue
- 1 piece of wax paper, about 8 inches by 8 inches, to protect the drying surface
- 1 piece of twine, 12 inches long, for hanging
- 1 small hole punch, about 1/8 inch
- 1 pair of scissors
- 1 pencil
- 1 disposable table covering, at least 2 feet by 3 feet
- 1 pair of nitrile or household gloves, optional
- 1 damp cloth, for wiping glue from the table and tools
Instructions
- Cover your table with a disposable table covering.
- Wash and dry the plastic lid with warm soapy water to remove food residue.
- Choose the viewing side of the lid and turn it so the smoothest side faces upward.
- Plan the color pattern with small groups of tissue pieces in different colors.
- Mark a spot near the rim of the lid with a pencil, about 1/4 inch below the edge, and punch a small hole for hanging.
- Pour 1 tablespoon of clear-drying glue into the center of the lid, spreading it into a thin, even coat with the small brush.
- Place several tissue pieces onto the wet glue, leaving narrow gaps between them, and touch each piece lightly with the toothpick or brush.
- Add another tablespoon of glue over the first layer, placing more tissue pieces as needed.
- Use the remaining 1 tablespoon of glue to cover exposed paper and smooth the surface.
- Release small bubbles by gently drawing the toothpick through any large bubbles.
- Let any uneven areas be fixable by nudging loose paper edges after 10 minutes.
- Set the piece aside to dry flat on wax paper for 24 to 48 hours.
- Once dry, thread the twine through the hole and tie a small double knot to create a hanger.
- Clean up by wiping the brush and cup with warm water.
Notes
Keep the suncatcher away from direct outdoor weather, standing water, and unprotected wood surfaces. It is not waterproof.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
