Snowflake Suncatchers (Free Printable)

Snowflake suncatchers are an easy and fun winter craft that’s perfect for all ages! Using contact paper and colorful tissue paper, you can create stunning designs to brighten up your windows on dreary winter days. Whether you’re a teacher, mom, or caregiver seeking a fun and mess-free activity, this post has everything you need to know to make this beautiful suncatcher craft. 

Planning ahead? You may want to bookmark our Heart Suncatchers for Valentine’s Day!

Why Make Snowflake Suncatchers?

Snowflake suncatchers are more than just decorative—they come with several benefits for kids:

• Engages Creativity: Kids can experiment with warm and cool colors.
• Teaches Symmetry: Creating paper snowflakes introduces children to the concept of symmetry.
• Brightens the Home: These suncatchers bring a stained-glass effect to your windows, adding a cozy touch to winter decor.
• Easy Cleanup: Using contact paper instead of glue keeps this activity tidy and stress-free.

Whether you’re looking for a classroom activity, a family craft, or a quiet winter afternoon project, our snowflake suncatchers are a great choice!

Craft Materials Needed for Snowflake Suncatcher Craft

Be sure to gather all the necessary supplies before starting this craft!

• Snowflake Suncatchers Template (free with email subscription)
• Tissue paper squares or tissue paper circles
• Contact paper or self-seal laminating sheets
• White cardstock
• Black cardstock
• Double-sided tape
• Scissors

Do you have a Cricut or Silhouette machine? We are now offering SVG files for our suncatchers in our Teachers Pay Teachers shop. Click here to view and purchase our Snowflake Suncatcher SVG.

Watch the Video Tutorial

Check out the video below to see how we created our suncatchers.

Step-by-Step Guide: Snowflake Suncatchers DIY

Bring brightness and cheer to your home this winter with handmade snowflake suncatchers. Follow the steps below to create these decorations.

STEP 1: Download and print the snowflake suncatchers patterns. Access the snowflake template by clicking the link in the materials list and subscribing to our free craft newsletter. After subscribing, navigate to the post in our Substack titled Snowflake Suncatchers Free Printable to find your download link.

Print the free suncatcher templates on white paper or cardstock. Our template includes three snowflake shapes.

STEP 2: Cut out the snowflake suncatchers printable. Use scissors to carefully cut along the outlines. Since our snowflake suncatchers are detailed, little hands may need some assistance with this step.

We wanted a completely black suncatcher frame. There are several ways to achieve this:

1. Place a sheet of black cardstock behind our template, staple it to hold it in place, then cut out both the black and white cardstock at the same time.
2. Cut out the templates, then trace them onto black cardstock with a pencil.
3. If you have a cutting machine, you may purchase the SVG file in our Teachers Pay Teachers shop.

STEP 3: Position the outlines on top of the contact paper. Lay the outlines onto the sticky side of the contact paper or self-seal laminating sheet. If you’re using shapes cut from white cardstock, make sure the black ink side is facing down.

STEP 4: Arrange the tissue paper. Fill the suncatcher frames with tissue paper squares or circles, adjusting the size of the pieces as needed for smaller details, like the tiny circles. Carefully continue adding tissue paper until the frames are completely covered and it looks like you have a stained glass snowflake. 

STEP 5: Apply a second adhesive sheet. After the tissue paper is positioned, place another adhesive sheet on top to seal the design. Then, use scissors to trim around the edges of the suncatcher frames.

STEP 6: Enjoy your new window decorations! These contact paper suncatchers make a beautiful addition to any window, brightening up the room with their vibrant hues.

Kids Suncatcher Crafts Tips and Tricks

Here are some crafting tips and tricks to help you make the perfect Snowflake Suncatcher.

• Pre-Cut Materials for Younger Kids: For toddlers and preschoolers, pre-cut tissue paper and snowflakes to simplify the process.
• Experiment with Color Themes: Use seasonal colors like white, blue, and silver, or try vibrant rainbow patterns. You can also use this craft to teach about warm and cool colors.
• Incorporate Learning: Discuss the science of snowflakes and why they are symmetrical.
• Use Metallic Accents: Add sparkle with metallic or glittery tissue paper for a festive New Year’s touch.
• Hang with ease. For easy removal, I suggest using double-sided tape or sticky tack to hang them on the glass.

Do you love to make suncatchers? We also have a bundle of Easter Suncatchers that include an egg, chick, and bunny!

Take it Further

Snowflake suncatchers are an excellent choice for a winter craft. They’re easy to make, require simple materials, and result in beautiful decorations that kids feel proud of creating.

Looking for extension ideas? Try some of these cute ideas:

• Use cellophane, construction paper, or crepe paper instead of tissue paper.
• Decorate school windows with a collection of suncatchers made by students.
• Pair this craft with a book about snow.
• Share your favorite winter traditions while working on this craft.
• Create a bunch of suncatchers and gift them to nursing home residents!
• Use your suncatchers as a winter-themed backdrop for a party.
• Enjoy this craft on a snowy afternoon!
• During the holiday season, pair your snowflakes with our Christmas Suncatcher Craft collection.

More Winter Craft Ideas for Kids

Looking for more ideas for this time of year? You may also enjoy:

• Mitten Craft with Printable Mitten Template
• Paper Snowman Craft
• Free Printable Polar Bear Craft for Kids
• Melted Snowman Coloring Page

Save this Craft

Save this craft on Pinterest using the image below!