Bioplastic Suncatchers
Create beautiful and eco-friendly suncatchers using natural ingredients that can brighten your windows and inspire sustainable crafting.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cornstarch Provides the base for the bioplastic
- 1 cup water Mixes with cornstarch to form the mixture
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar Acts as a preservative in the mixture
- 1 tablespoon glycerin Helps with flexibility; can be substituted
- as needed Food coloring Optional for adding color to suncatchers
Supplies
- 1 Wax paper For shaping and drying the suncatchers
- 1 Cookie cutters or molds For shaping the suncatchers
- 1 Paintbrush Optional, for spreading the mixture
- 1 Scissors For trimming the suncatchers
- 1 String or fishing line For hanging the finished suncatchers
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small saucepan, mix cornstarch, water, vinegar, and glycerin.
- Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture thickens and becomes translucent (about 5-10 minutes).
- Once thick, remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Add Color
- If you desire colored suncatchers, add a few drops of food coloring to the mixture and stir until you achieve the desired hue.
Shape Your Suncatchers
- Place wax paper on a flat surface.
- Use cookie cutters or pour the mixture onto the wax paper in your desired shapes.
- Consider using a paintbrush to spread and create designs.
Allow to Dry
- Leave the shaped mixture to dry for 24-48 hours. Flip them halfway to ensure even drying.
- Check for firmness; they should be hard to touch.
Finishing Touches
- Once dry, carefully peel the suncatchers off the wax paper.
- Use scissors to trim any uneven edges.
Hang and Enjoy
- Create holes for hanging with a small hole punch or scissors.
- Use string or fishing line to hang your suncatchers in a bright window and enjoy the sunlight streaming through.
Notes
Customize shapes and experiment with textures in your designs. Swap glycerin for plant-based alternatives or vary thickness to create different effects. Perfect for educational projects about sustainability.