Will this make a big sticky mess in the kitchen?

Not usually. You will get a few drips when you pour and some sticky spots on bowls if the mix cools in them. I keep a towel and paper towels handy. Wiping things while they are still warm makes cleanup easy and the silicone molds rinse clean with soap and water.

Is this safe for my preschooler to help with?

Small kids can do the coloring and place molds, but an adult should handle the hot saucepan and the warm mixture. The hands-on parts for kids mostly involve pipettes, spoons, and choosing colors. With close supervision this project works well for ages four and up for basic tasks, and older kids can take on more of the pouring.

Can I substitute ingredients if I do not have glycerin or distilled water?

Glycerin helps flexibility, so skipping it will still give a result but one that is a bit more brittle. Distilled water keeps the final pieces clearer, especially if your tap water is very hard. If you must use tap water, expect a slightly less transparent finish, not a failure. We keep expectations modest and focus on the joy of making rather than perfection.

How long do the suncatchers last and can you clean them?

They last a long time if kept dry and away from very hot direct sun. You can wipe them gently with a damp cloth, but avoid soaking them for long periods since that can soften the material. If they get dusty, a quick soft wipe usually restores the shine.

Easy Vibrant Eco-Friendly Bioplastic Suncatchers 2026

Vibrant Eco-Friendly Bioplastic Suncatchers

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Create vibrant bioplastic suncatchers with simple ingredients and tools, perfect for a fun family craft.

Author: linda-harper
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: Varies by molds used
Category: Craft
Method: Decoration
Cuisine: N/A
Diet: N/A

Ingredients

Agar powder or gelatin
Glycerin
Distilled water
White vinegar or lemon juice
Food coloring or concentrated liquid watercolor
Small saucepan or nonstick pan
Measuring spoons and a small scale
Silicone trays or smooth baking trays lined with silicone baking mats
Heatproof bowl and a silicone spatula
Small pipettes or droppers
Cookie cutters or small craft punches
Needle and thin thread or small suction-cup hooks
Paper towels and a small drying rack
Kitchen thermometer
Oven mitts and a towel

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Heat water and agar or gelatin in a saucepan until clear and warm.
Remove from heat and add vinegar or lemon juice and glycerin.
Cool briefly, then add food coloring to create desired colors in small bowls.
Pour colors into silicone trays, allowing them to take shape.
Let sit undisturbed until mostly set.
Check for flexibility, then remove and place on a drying rack.
Cure for 24 to 48 hours before hanging.

Notes

Use silicone trays for low mess and easy cleanup. Supervise kids during the heating and pouring steps.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 suncatcher
Calories: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A
Fat: N/A
Saturated Fat: N/A
Unsaturated Fat: N/A
Trans Fat: N/A
Carbohydrates: N/A
Fiber: N/A
Protein: N/A
Cholesterol: N/A

Find it online: https://www.diymadeeasy.com/vibrant-bioplastic-suncatchers-recipe/