Thank you so much for being here! If you love crafts that are creative, colorful, and kind to the planet, this one’s for you. These Bioplastic Suncatchers are not just fun to make — they’re a delightful reminder of what we can create with just a few simple kitchen staples and a bit of imagination.
Whether you’re crafting with kids or enjoying a solo afternoon of making something beautiful, this project brings together art, science, and sustainability in the most joyful way. 💛
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What Are Bioplastic Suncatchers?
Bioplastic suncatchers are handmade ornaments created with a homemade gelatin-based plastic. Once dried, they become flexible, translucent, and sturdy enough to hang in windows, catching the sunlight with mesmerizing patterns and colors. They’re perfect for seasonal decorations, classroom projects, or just a feel-good weekend craft.
Why You’ll Love This Craft
- 🌱 Eco-friendly and biodegradable
- 🎨 Creative and customizable — endless colors, shapes, and textures
- 👩🔬 STEAM-aligned — teaches basic science principles in a fun, hands-on way
- 🧒 Kid-safe and non-toxic
- ✨ Stunning in sunlight — they truly glow!
What Do They Look Like?
When finished, these suncatchers are almost like stained glass. They’re thin and slightly bendable, with beautiful light-filtering qualities. Add a little glitter or pressed flower petals, and you’ve got something that looks like it came out of a fairytale.
Benefits of Bioplastic Suncatchers
- Encourages eco-conscious crafting
- Perfect for rainy day or sunny window projects
- Easy for kids to help make and decorate
- Great for gifts, classrooms, and party favors
- Teaches basic chemistry with a creative twist!
🧾 Ingredients
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
- Natural or food-safe coloring
- Optional: fine glitter, pressed flower petals, or tissue paper pieces
- A non-stick surface (silicone baking mats or parchment paper work great)
- String or suction hook for hanging
- Hole punch
🔧 Tools You’ll Need
- Medium-sized saucepan
- Measuring spoons & cups
- Several small bowls (for coloring)
- Spoons or spatulas for spreading
- Drying space (countertop, tray, or table)
🥄 Optional Additions & Variations
- Use cookie cutters to shape the gel into hearts, stars, or animals
- Sprinkle in eco-glitter for sparkle
- Try natural dyes like beet or turmeric for an all-natural look
- Layer different colors for a swirled or marbled effect
- Make a sun-catcher mobile using several shapes on one string
👩🔬 How to Make Bioplastic Suncatchers
1. Mix the Base
Pour 1/2 cup water into a medium saucepan. Add:
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp unflavored gelatin
Stir well until everything is dissolved and smooth.
2. Heat the Mixture
Place over medium-low heat, stirring constantly for 3–5 minutes. You’ll see the mix start to thicken — once it reaches a gel-like consistency, remove from heat.
🔥 Tip: Don’t let it boil! Stir continuously to prevent sticking or burning.
3. Color Your Gel
Divide the gel into separate bowls. Add a few drops of food-safe coloring to each and mix well. This is where you can get creative — pastels, bold primaries, rainbow swirls… go wild!
4. Decorate and Spread
Spoon or pour your colored gel onto a non-stick surface, creating shapes, circles, or abstract art. While it’s still wet, add:
- Flower petals
- Tissue confetti
- Sprinkles of glitter
Use a spoon or spatula to smooth and swirl your designs.
5. Let It Dry
Allow the suncatchers to air dry for 24–48 hours. For even drying, flip them halfway through.
🌬️ Humid climate? A fan can speed things up, but keep it on low.
6. Punch & Hang
Once fully dry and firm, use a hole punch to make a small hole at the top of each piece. Add string or attach a suction hook — and hang them in a sunny window to catch the light!
🌸 Tips for Success
- Thin layers dry more quickly and clearly than thick ones
- Don’t use too much water when coloring — it may slow drying
- Layer colors carefully to avoid muddying
- Want them to lay flat? Press with parchment and a book once partially dried
- If edges curl slightly, you can trim them with scissors
📦 Storage & Longevity
These suncatchers will last 1–2 weeks, depending on humidity. They are biodegradable and not waterproof, so keep them out of direct rain or outdoor exposure.
To extend life:
- Keep out of direct steam/moisture
- Store in a dry, cool spot when not in use
- Remake seasonally for fresh window color!
❓ FAQ
Are they safe for kids?
Yes! All ingredients are food-safe, though this is a craft, not a snack. Supervision is recommended due to stovetop steps.
Can I use agar instead of gelatin?
Agar doesn’t work quite the same here — gelatin gives the needed flexibility and texture.
Why is mine cracking?
Too much drying or overly thin spots can cause cracking. Try a slightly thicker pour and avoid direct airflow.
Can I hang them outside?
Nope! These are best indoors — rain or humidity will soften or break them down.
🥰 Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about making something so beautiful from such simple ingredients. These Bioplastic Suncatchers are a celebration of light, color, and creativity — and a great reminder that sometimes the most meaningful projects are the messiest, stickiest, and most magical.
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📸 Show Off Your Suncatchers!
Did you try this project?
I need to see those gorgeous windows!
📷 Tag me @MmmRecipesWithJoy on Pinterest or Instagram
📝 Leave a comment and tell me how yours turned out — or what you added!
🌈 Not Nutritional — But Totally Nourishing
Okay, no calories here — but this craft is full of:
- Creativity
- Connection
- Color therapy
- And planet-loving goodness 💚
So go ahead — get a little messy, let the colors fly, and hang some joy in your window. You deserve it. 🌞✨
