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DIY Bioplastic Suncatchers

Create beautiful and delicate suncatchers using gelatin and dried botanicals. This project encourages mindful crafting and results in stunning light-catching pieces.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 1 suncatcher
Course: Crafting
Cuisine: Crafting
Calories: 50
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup distilled water
  • 2 tablespoons gelatin powder plain
  • 1 teaspoon glycerin optional
  • Dried flowers thin leaves, or small petals
  • Shallow tray or silicone mat
  • Parchment paper if not using silicone
  • Fishing line or ribbon for hanging
  • Cookie cutters optional for shaping
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

Method
 

  1. Measure and mix the base.
  2. Warm the distilled water in a small saucepan until hot but not boiling.
  3. Sprinkle the gelatin over the surface and let it bloom for a minute.
  4. Stir the mix slowly until the gelatin fully dissolves.
  5. Add glycerin and stir until blended.
  6. Warm the mixture over low heat, stirring steadily.
  7. Prepare the shallow tray lined with a silicone mat or parchment.
  8. Pour the warm gelatin mixture into the tray in a thin, even layer.
  9. Press the dried botanicals into the liquid using tweezers.
  10. Let the mixture set until tacky, about an hour.
  11. Air dry for 24 to 48 hours until firm.
  12. Peel the film from the mat carefully.
  13. Add hanging hardware and display your suncatcher.

Notes

Use fully dried plant material to prevent cloudiness. Store finished suncatchers flat to maintain their shape. Rotate in sunlight to prevent fading.