Suncatcher... window/wall art

I'm always on the look out for open-ended fun art activities that my kids and I can create. I am also always looking out for homemade crafts that would make a great gift for friends and family. It's lovely when children can make their own extra special present for someone they love. Often what I find is activities suited mostly for older children or ones that are very parent directed, fiddly, and don't allow much room for self expression and creativity.

So I had a look around and with a mix of others ideas, I came up with this little 'gem'!

 What you need:
-transparent plastic sheet
-embroidery hoop (this one is 22cm)
-coloured gems, jewels, glitter glue
-pva glue

Cut the A4 plastic sheet and open it out so it becomes A3 size.  Fit the embroidery hoop tightly around the plastic sheet. 

Now it's time for FUN!

Sparkly gems: I made the mistake of buying silver backed gems. It's great for the wall as they reflect the sun but if you want to put it on the window, not so good. Buy the transparent ones for window art. You might like to demonstrate some ideas here for patterning to your small person or just let them do their own thing.

 Let them go pretty crazy with the glue. They often love this part the most! 

 Once finished let it dry over night. Then trim the excess plastic off.

Add ribbon to the top and it would make a great Christmas decoration. You could also make lots of smaller ones to hang on the tree. You could also paint the hoop for a different effect. To hang on the window, just use blue tac, it is light enough to hold well. Enjoy!