When the cold wind continued to blow in February and the needle on my outdoor thermometer started heading into the negative zones, but the sun shone brightly on the new fallen snow, I decided to embrace the frigid temperatures and make a few frozen suncatchers.
The beauty of this craft is that it requires minimal prep work and the simple supplies can be found in nature or around the house – especially from your leftover poinsettias or roses from the previous celebrations, since that deep red or pink and the green from the leaves brings stunning color to the suncatchers.
All you need is a creative mind, a few supplies and freezing temperatures. So, gather your supplies and begin creating.
Since children are always mesmerized by the beauty and texture of ice, it is a fun way to bundle up and discover what can be found in nature during this time of the year. So, when the freezing temperatures return, just grab a basket, a bag or a sled and go exploring. The outdoor time with the fresh air will definitely wake you up and maybe soothe the soul. Even take a break and make a few snow angels along the way. If it is just too cold find some treasures around the house and begin creating.
So, if March decides to go out like a lion – since it came in like a lamb – you’ll have another opportunity to make a frozen sun catcher.
Gather your supplies for the frozen suncatchers. Check out the fun dinosaurs, rainbows, colored stones to use if the temperatures are too frigid (just remember to clean up when they melt for safety for the critters/birds).
Create your suncatcher inside and then find a spot outside for it to freeze. Then bring some water outside with you to pour into the container.
Cut a long piece of yarn, twine or ribbon.
Place the yarn, twine or ribbon into the liquid at the top of the suncatcher and allow enough length so that it will hold the suncatcher for a while.
Or, you can work with the ice when it’s frozen solid, and use a hot nail to poke a hole at the top of the creation. Pound the hot nail quickly in the right spot. Heat the nail with a cup of hot water and dip a few times. Do this step after you’ve removed the suncatcher from the mold.
Once frozen, bring inside and place the bottom of the container in a sink with hot water.
Once thawed, gently lift from the container (it doesn’t take long).
Finally find a spot to hang your frozen suncatcher and enjoy!
Brenda Boschee Dronen is a mom, grandmother, educational consultant in reading, a retired elementary teacher of 33 years and a lover of the great outdoors. Watch for her creative crafts surrounding the great outdoors and how you can enrich your children’s lives.
The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON
