Kids will love making these DIY suncatchers using tissue paper and recycled plastic lids! A fun, eco-friendly craft that’s bright and easy.

Skills Required: None. Kids around 3 – 4 years and older can make this project, as they’ll need to use scissors. The

diy suncatcher

It all started when I started collecting yogurt lids. I went through a serious phase and was buying the large containers – the 32 ouncers (Chobani, specifically).

I noticed when I was done with the yogurt that the containers were pretty solid . . . so like I good crafter, I washed them out and set them aside for the “right time.” I knew a craft idea would strike.

And sure enough, it did.

Are you looking for a fun, colorful, and eco-friendly craft to keep the kids entertained? These DIY suncatchers – made with recycled plastic lids and tissue paper – are the perfect project!

homemade suncatchers

Not only are they simple to make, but they also bring a pop of cheerful color to any window – and they’re a great way to teach children about reusing materials in creative ways.

We love projects that are easy enough for little hands but still result in something beautiful, and this one checks all the boxes.

Plus no need for glass or fancy materials. These suncatchers are made of totally kid-safe supplies, making them ideal for preschoolers or elementary-aged children who love to craft.

What I really love about this activity is its flexibility. You can keep it super simple for younger kids or get a little more creative by cutting shapes, layering colors, or adding glitter and embellishments.

It’s the kind of project that encourages experimentation, and it’s always fun to see how each suncatcher turns out differently. No two are exactly alike!

I used it as a stash buster, because I always have excess tissue paper in a ton of colors.

Are you ready to get started? The only thing you need to do before you jump in is to wash the lids and dry them. Then you’re good to go.

kid suncatchers with tissue paper and Mod Podge

Get the printable how to card below:

homemade suncatchers
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Easy Suncatcher Craft

Learn how to make the easiest, most inexpensive kids craft with recycled lids! These sun catchers will be a favorite spring or summer project.
Active Time1 hour
Dry Time1 hour
Total Time2 hours
Yield: 3 suncatchers
Cost: $1

Equipment

Materials

Instructions

  • Poke a hole in the top of each lid using an awl, scissors, or a nail and hammer. This step should be done by an adult.
    plastic lid with a hole in it
  • Cut the tissue paper into various sizes and shapes. I used many different colors and cut them into triangle shapes. I encourage you to experiment!
    piles of cut triangles of tissue paper
  • Apply a layer of Mod Podge to the inside of the lid in a small area.
    applying Mod Podge to the lid
  • Apply several pieces of tissue paper and brush over the top.
    brushing Mod Podge over the top of tissue paper
  • Continue applying Mod Podge and tissue paper, overlapping the pieces to create various color combinations. Continue applying until the entire lid is covered.
    applying tissue paper to the plastic lid with Mod Podge
  • Let the tissue paper and lid dry.
    lid and tissue paper drying on the table
  • Trim around the edges with a pair of scissors to remove the excess tissue.
    cutting the excess tissue paper with scissors
  • Cut a length of twine and thread through the hole at the top of the lid to display. Repeat with remaining lids.
    threading a hanger through the lid hole

Notes

Step 5 – if you are using inexpensive tissue, be careful how many times you brush over it with the Mod Podge. Some tissue papers start releasing the dye if they get too wet with acrylic products. You don’t want to continue brushing and brushing them or all the colors will start mixing.

Would you try this project? Let me know in the comments! I’d also love for you to check out these other ideas:

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