I find that suncatchers are a charming item and people always seem to admire them. They can be made in endless ways and with different items. Stained glass appears to be in great demand, but they are quite often made from plastic sheeting, which I am about to explain for novices. These items are so artistic yet often so very easy to make yourself and you will find that old and young people alike, really appreciate them!

You can hang them anywhere in the car, in your home, garden, your office etc. and they catch the light so beautifully. There are so many different ways you can actually make them, it is no wonder they are popular.

This one I am about to explain really is intended for a window, but of course the choice is up to you. So, now for your basic requirements. A roll of lead tape, glass paints and thinner, a tube of glass outliner, paintbrush, rubber suction hook, 2cm length of string and a pot for water. Plus, of course, an acrylic sheet in A5 size and a design for you to paint on your sheet.

It will probably give you more satisfaction if you go ahead and make your own design, but if this is not the case, go ahead and visit your local art supply shop. I am sure they must be able to sell you these.

The first step to take is to remove the film from the acrylic sheet. Continue then by cutting a length from your lead taping. The backing will need to be peeled off and then stuck along the edging of the acrylic sheet.

Of course we need something to hang this by, so we need a hook. For this you will require your string and a piece about 4cm long of your lead tape. You take the string and place this inside the tape, leaving it open at the end. Then you can go ahead and stick this to one of your edges on the sheet to make this hook to hang it from.

Next step, place your pattern sheet under the acrylic sheet and then you can draw your design with your tube of outliner from the pattern. Wait for this to dry.

The design has now been transferred to your sheet, so now you can start to use your glass paints to fill out your design. When you have finished this part I find it is better to give this plenty of time for drying. Therefore, if you leave it overnight, this is ideal. Your brush will need to be washed and given a good clean with the thinner if your glass paint contains solvent.

Some paints only have a water base, so these can just be washed in water. So, now we are getting near the end. You have to be able to hang the suncatcher, so this is where your suction hook comes in. Go ahead, stick this to your window and then attach your suncatcher. You will get great satisfaction when you see the light reflecting on and through it. If you have cracked it don’t stop there, try different designs and make a few more!