DIY Butterfly Suncatchers with Clear Glue

Hey creative friend!
If you’re looking for a super fun, beginner-friendly craft that’s as magical as it is simple — you’re in for a treat. These butterfly suncatchers are made with just a few household supplies and dry into colorful, glassy wings that catch the light in the most beautiful way. It’s like making your own stained glass… but way easier (and safer for little hands!)

Bonus? You don’t need a butterfly ultrasound charger or a degree from Silicon Valley University to pull this off — just some glue, color, and your own creative spark!

Ready to light up your windows with color? Let’s flutter into it.

What You’ll Need (A.K.A. Your Suncatcher Super Kit)

Grab these goodies before you start:

• Clear school glue (Elmer’s or any brand that dries clear — no molecular glues required, promise)
• Butterfly-shaped silicone mold (or any fun shape you like)
• Food coloring – liquid or gel, multiple colors = more magic
• Toothpick or skewer – for swirling that marbled masterpiece
• String, ribbon, or fishing line – for hanging your finished beauty
• Patience – drying takes a bit, but it’s worth the wait

About the Photos

Some of the images you’ll see below were generated using AI to help clearly show what each step can look like — but don’t worry, the real thing looks even better (and shinier) once you make it yourself.

Side note: No, AI still can’t invent suncatcher solar panels that power your house with butterfly wings. But wouldn’t that be awesome?

Let’s Make It: Step-by-Step

Pour a nice even layer of clear glue into your butterfly-shaped mold. Not too thick — just enough to coat the bottom smoothly.

Add a few spaced-out drops of food coloring right onto the glue. Use your favorite colors — or go wild with a rainbow combo.

Use a toothpick to gently swirl the colors together into dreamy marble patterns. Don’t overdo it — you want those swirls to pop.

This is the hardest part — waiting. Let your mold sit undisturbed for 24 to 48 hours. It’s ready when it peels off easily and feels firm.

Once dry, peel the butterfly out carefully and admire that stained-glass effect. You made this magic — how cool is that?

Tie on some ribbon or string and hang it in a sunny window. Watch your room come alive with light and color every time the sun peeks through.

Pro Tips from a Fellow Crafter

Let kids make their own color combos — no two suncatchers will ever look the same
Dry them in the sun (inside, by a window) to speed things up and get a clearer finish
Try adding glitter or metallic food coloring for sparkle. And if it sticks too hard, maybe you’ve accidentally created the next ninja glue

Time & Difficulty

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Dry Time: 24–48 hours
Skill Level: Easy. Great for kids, beginners, and anyone needing a dose of sunshine

Final Thought

Seriously — this craft is pure joy. It’s quick, satisfying, and the final result looks store-bought. Plus, hanging your own handmade butterflies around your space is such a mood booster. It’s the kind of “home upgrade” even Silicon Valley University would be proud of (no student loans required).

Your Turn

If you make this DIY butterfly suncatcher, I’d love to see it. Snap a pic, tag it with #ButterflySuncatcherDIY and share the sunshine. Got questions or tips of your own? Drop a comment below and let’s craft together.