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

Skills Required: None. Littles around preschool age and older can make this project, as they’ll need to use scissors. Or an adult can trim the edges.

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

I noticed when I was done with the yogurt that the containers and lids 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. And once I got the idea, I had to make it. With my niece, of course!

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!

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.

I 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 real glass or any fancy materials. These sun catchers are made of totally kid-safe supplies (including Mod Podge glue) 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 children 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 sun catcher turns out differently. No two are exactly alike! Mine looked absolutely striking in the light.

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

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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

Dry Time1

Total Time2

Yield: suncatchers

Cost: $1

Equipment

Materials

3 Plastic lids
8 sheets Tissue paper various colors
1 bottle Mod Podge Gloss
1 roll Twine

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.
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!
Apply a layer of Mod Podge glue to the inside of the lid in a small area.
Apply several pieces of tissue paper and brush over the top.
Continue applying glue and tissue paper, overlapping the pieces to create various color combinations. Continue applying until the entire lid is covered.
Let the tissue paper and lid dry.
Trim around the edges with a pair of scissors to remove the excess tissue.
Cut a length of twine and thread through the hole at the top of the lid to display. Repeat with remaining lids.

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:

Art Coasters • Birdhouse Craft • Cardboard Dollhouse • Decoupage a Cardboard Box • Decoupage a Treasure Box • DIY Window Clings • Egg Carton Art • Mason Jar Night Light • Mod Podge Slime • Reusable Gift Boxes • Student Name Sticks