Looking for an easy, affordable craft that brightens your home and keeps kids engaged? Make a Sun Catcher With a Plate is a colorful project that combines creativity, learning, and simple household supplies. This cheerful craft uses paper plates, coffee filters, and washable markers to create beautiful sun-themed decorations that glow in the window when sunlight shines through.
Whether you're teaching a weather unit, exploring the solar system, celebrating summer, or simply looking for a rainy-day activity, this project is a wonderful choice for children of all ages.
I first made this craft on a quiet afternoon when we needed something simple yet exciting. The supplies were already in the house, and the process felt almost magical. Watching the marker colors blend together after a light mist of water fascinated everyone. The next day, when the finished sun catchers hung in the window and glowed in the sunlight, the kids were proud of their creations. Since then, it has become one of those projects we return to throughout the year because it is inexpensive, easy to customize, and always brings a little extra sunshine indoors.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Color a coffee filter using washable markers.
- Mist the coffee filter lightly with water.
- Allow the filter to dry completely.
- Cut the centers from two paper plates.
- Glue the coffee filter between the paper plate frames.
- Add string and hang in a sunny window.
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why This Sun Catcher Craft Is So Popular
Encourages Creativity
Children can choose their own color combinations and create unique designs. No two sun catchers ever look exactly alike.
Uses Affordable Supplies
Most families already have the materials needed. This makes the project budget-friendly and easy to prepare at a moment's notice.
The combination of markers and water creates beautiful blended patterns that look much more advanced than the simple process used to create them.
Supplies You'll Need
Craft Materials
To Make a Sun Catcher With a Plate, gather:
- Coffee filters
- Thin paper plates
- Washable markers
- Water spray bottle
- Glue
- String or ribbon for hanging
Optional Tools
- Scissors
- Craft knife (adult use only)
- Protective tray or baking pan
- Wax paper
Having all materials ready before starting makes the activity smoother and more enjoyable.
How to Make a Sun Catcher With a Plate
Step 1: Decorate the Coffee Filter
Lay a coffee filter flat on a table.
Using washable markers, color the filter with bright shades such as:
- Yellow
- Orange
- Red
- Pink
Encourage children to add plenty of color near the center because that area will be most visible once assembled.
Step 2: Spray with Water
Place the colored coffee filter in a tray or outside on a protected surface.
Lightly mist the filter with water until damp but not soaking wet.
As the water spreads, the colors will blend together into beautiful watercolor-style patterns.
Allow the coffee filters to dry completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Paper Plates
While the filters dry, cut the centers out of two paper plates.
You should be left with two circular frames.
Adult supervision is recommended when using scissors or craft knives.
Step 4: Assemble the Sun Catcher
Glue the dried coffee filter to one paper plate frame.
Place the second frame on top and glue it into place.
The coffee filter becomes sandwiched between the two frames, creating a sturdy sun catcher.
Step 5: Display Your Creation
Punch a small hole in the top.
Thread ribbon or string through the hole.
Hang the finished sun catcher in a sunny window where the colors can shine.
Educational Benefits
Supports Fine Motor Skills
Coloring, cutting, and gluing help strengthen hand muscles and improve coordination.
Introduces Science Concepts
This activity can support lessons about:
- Sunlight
- Weather
- Color mixing
- Water absorption
Children naturally observe how the marker colors react when sprayed with water.
Fun Variations
Rainbow Sun Catcher
Use every color of the rainbow instead of traditional sun colors.
Seasonal Sun Catcher
Create themed versions for:
- Spring
- Summer
- Fall
- Winter
Shape Variations
Instead of circles, cut the paper plates into:
- Flowers
- Stars
- Hearts
- Moons
The same technique works beautifully with many different shapes.
Tips for Success
Use Washable Markers
Washable markers spread more easily and create softer blended colors.
Avoid Oversaturating
Too much water can tear the coffee filter.
A gentle mist works best.
Allow Full Drying Time
Dry filters are easier to glue and handle without tearing.
Double Frame the Project
Using two paper plate frames creates a stronger finished craft that lasts longer.
Display Ideas
Window Decorations
The most popular option is hanging them in sunny windows.
Classroom Decorations
Teachers can create an entire wall display using student-made sun catchers.
Party Decorations
These colorful crafts make wonderful decorations for:
- Summer parties
- Birthday celebrations
- Classroom events
Gift Giving
Children love gifting their handmade creations to grandparents and family members.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular markers?
Washable markers work best because the colors blend more easily with water.
Can younger children make this craft?
Yes. Younger children may need help with cutting and assembly.
How long does the project take?
Active crafting takes about 20 minutes, plus drying time.
Can I use construction paper instead of coffee filters?
Coffee filters work best because they absorb water and create the stained-glass effect.
Where should I hang the finished sun catcher?
A sunny window provides the brightest and most colorful display.
Conclusion
Make a Sun Catcher With a Plate is a simple, inexpensive craft that combines creativity, learning, and colorful fun. With just a few household supplies, children can create beautiful decorations that brighten any room. Whether used as a classroom activity, homeschool project, or weekend craft, these cheerful sun catchers are sure to become a favorite family tradition.
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