Simply cut out a paper snowflake and then create a colourful pattern with markers — it’s such a fun celebration of winter! Plus, these snowflake suncatchers make beautiful reflections on tables and walls when the sun hits them. Or you can simply shine a flashlight over them to see the colourful shadows; it’s so much fun!
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Helpful Tips:
What type of markers are best for this snowflake suncatcher?
We recommend using permanent markers to colour on the transparency film. Sharpies or any other brand of permanent markers should work well. Use darker colours for the best results, since lighter colours don’t show up well on the plastic. You can use washable Crayola markers if that’s all you have, but the colour will bead up on the plastic and won’t give you the consistent colour you can see in our photos.
What type of plastic is used?
We used transparency film, the kind meant for use with overhead projectors. It’s a flexible, clear plastic that gives the paper snowflake a sturdy base. You can also put a blank laminating pouch through the laminator and use that. Or try using a plastic folder, or even the flat part of a clamshell package (the kind that pastries and fruit come in).
How can I hang up my stained glass snowflake suncatcher?
We put removable double sided tape on the back side of the suncatchers to hang them up in the window, but sticky tack also works. Place the tape or sticky tack behind the black parts of the suncatcher so they’re hidden from view. You can also punch a hole in the top of the suncatcher and string some ribbon or twine through to hang them on a suction cup. This will also give a bit of movement to the suncatcher.
What black paper did you use? Can I use a different colour?
We bought a pack of 24 lb paper from Michael’s to make our snowflake suncatchers, but you can also use black construction paper. We like the look of the black paper since it makes the suncatchers look like real stained glass. If you don’t have any black paper you can definitely use another colour. We made a couple suncatchers with blue paper and they look really nice too!
What scissors are best for a paper snowflake craft?
We recommend using detail scissors if you have them. These scissors have short, sharp blades that make it easy to cut precisely through layers of paper. If you don’t have detail scissors, any sharp adult scissors should also work. Just avoid using children’s safety scissors since they won’t be sharp enough to cut through all the layers of paper.
How else can I make a snowflake suncatcher?
Tissue paper also creates a really beautiful and colourful snowflake suncatcher! Attach pieces of tissue paper to the sticky side of a piece of contact paper. Then seal it in with another piece of contact paper on top. Then follow the step by step tutorial above to fold and cut it into a paper snowflake. It’s another fun and easy way to make a winter suncatcher!
You can also make beautiful coffee filter snowflakes to hang in the window.
Use these snowflake suncatchers to add a bit of colour in your house after all the Christmas decor is taken down! These DIY suncatchers are easy, quick, and inexpensive to make, and they create a beautiful glow when the sun shines through them.
Here’s even more DIY suncatcher ideas:
Black Glue Suncatcher Craft
Melted Bead Suncatchers
Glass Bead Heart Suncatcher
Our book Low-Mess Crafts for Kids is loaded with 72 fun and simple craft ideas for kids! The projects are fun, easy and most importantly low-mess, so the clean up is simple!
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