Bioplastic Suncatchers
Create beautiful and eco-friendly bioplastic suncatchers that catch sunlight and add vibrant colors to your space, perfect for all ages.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup vinegar
- 1 tablespoon food coloring (optional) For vibrant colors
Tools & Materials
- cookie cutters or molds
- wax paper
- a saucepan
- a stirring utensil
- scissors
- string (optional for hanging)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of cornstarch, 3 cups of water, and 1 cup of vinegar. Stir thoroughly until there are no lumps.
Cooking
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and continuously stir the mixture as it heats up; it will begin to thicken.
- Look for a translucent, gel-like consistency, which usually takes about 5-10 minutes.
Adding Color
- Once thickened, remove the pan from heat and if desired, add food coloring to create vibrant hues. Stir until the color is evenly distributed.
Shaping the Suncatchers
- Carefully spread the mixture onto pieces of wax paper to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Use cookie cutters or molds to cut out fun shapes.
Drying Process
- Allow the suncatchers to dry for 24-48 hours, depending on humidity. Once dried, gently peel them off the wax paper.
Finishing Touches
- Use scissors to trim any uneven edges. Attach a piece of string if you plan to hang your suncatchers.
Notes
Experiment with different food coloring combinations for unique shades. Add dried flowers or glitter to the mixture before drying for added flair. Use different molds like muffin tins or silicone molds for various shapes.