When it comes to DIY, it can be tempting to buy new supplies for every project. But sometimes, the best materials are already sitting in your own home! Just take a look at these upcycled flower suncatchers, which are made with scrap plastic, Mason jar rings, and dried pressed flowers.
For our suncatchers, we used plastic from produce packaging, but you can use any clear scrap plastic you have. The Mason jar lids also offer a rustic look, but if you don't have any on hand, try making a ring out of cardboard, cardstock, or stiff fabric like felt. In other words, don't hesitate to get creative.
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As for the dried pressed flowers? They're available on Etsy and in the scrapbooking or resin sections of most craft stores. Alternatively, if you're feeling extra crafty, you can press fresh flowers between books.
Whether you're celebrating Earth Day, welcoming spring, or looking for an affordable craft project, these upcycled flower suncatchers will fit the bill. Read on to learn how to make them.
Video: Upcycled Flower Suncatchers
Things You'll Need
Mason jar ring
Suction cup with hook
Scrap plastic
Dried pressed flowers
Craft tweezers
Hot glue gun
Decoupage glue (glossy or matte)
Foam paintbrush
Scissors
Permanent marker
Hemp cord
1. Cut out plastic
Place the Mason jar ring on the scrap plastic with the bottom side facing up. Trace it with a permanent marker.
Cut it out.
Repeat so you have two circles.
2. Add pressed flowers
Apply decoupage glue to one plastic circle.
Using craft tweezers, carefully add pressed flowers to the plastic. If the decoupage glue starts to dry out, simply apply a bit more and continue.
Tip
Once you add a pressed flower, you won't be able to remove it; they're very delicate. So, before adding them, plan your design. This way, you'll be able to play around with the placement and overall look.
3. Top with plastic
Once you've added the flowers, apply more decoupage glue to any empty spaces. You can also add decoupage glue on top of the flowers; just be extra gentle.
Add the second plastic circle on top. Press to secure, making sure to focus on the areas with more decoupage glue.
Trim the edges (and any flowers or leaves sticking out) if needed. At this point, you can let the decoupage glue dry before moving forward, or you can continue making the suncatcher and let it dry afterward.
Tip
Place the plastic circle inside the Mason jar ring to make sure it fits.
4. Assemble the suncatcher
Working quickly, apply hot glue along the inside of the ring.
Press the plastic circle into the ring.
Cut a strand of hemp cord. Tie the ends together and trim the excess.
Tip
You can also use yarn, ribbon, or a strip of fabric.
Hot glue the hemp cord to the inside edge of the ring.
If needed, let the decoupage glue dry further. You'll know it's dry when it's completely clear.
Since this project is so easy to make, you can create a batch of flower suncatchers in the same sitting. Have fun with the flower and color combinations, as the possibilities are endless.
To display your upcycled creations, press suction cup hooks onto a window and then hang the suncatchers on the hooks. So pretty!