As temperatures change, water transforms from liquid to solid ice — a simple but powerful part of nature’s cycle.
Whether you use winter air or a freezer, you can turn water into frozen outdoor art that may even offer birds a refreshing sip as it melts.
Let’s Get Started
Create a frozen suncatcher using water and items you find outdoors. Hang it outside and watch the sunlight shine through your design.
Note: Only collect items that have already fallen to the ground—leave living plants undisturbed, unless they belong to you and your family, and you have permission to pick them.
Amazing!
Amazing!
Step 1: Gather natural materials.
Head outside and collect small items like:
- Leaves
- Pine needles
- Berries
- Small twigs
- Flower petals
- Seeds
- Grass
Wonderful!
Wonderful!
Step 2: Find a container.
You’ll need a container to hold water while it freezes. Try:
- A shallow bowl
- A plastic food container
- A pie tin
- A muffin tin (for smaller suncatchers)
- The bottom of a milk carton (cut down)
Great!
Great!
Step 3: Add a hanger (optional but helpful).
Place a small loop of string, yarn, or twine inside the container so part of it rests in the water and part sticks out over the edge.
Awesome!
Awesome!
Step 4: Arrange your design.
Pour water into the container (about ½–1 inch deep). Arrange your natural materials in the water however you like. Create patterns, shapes, or a colorful mix!
Fantastic!
Fantastic!
Step 5: Freeze it!
Place your container outside if temperatures are below freezing, or put it in the freezer. Leave it until completely frozen (usually several hours or overnight).
Fantastic!
Fantastic!
Step 6: Display your art.
Once frozen, gently remove the ice from the container. Hang it from a tree branch, fence, or railing where sunlight can shine through.
Watch how the light changes your design throughout the day!
Tips
- Add a few drops of organic food coloring to the water (if available) to create colorful ice.
- Try freezing in layers: freeze one thin layer first, then add more natural materials and water before freezing again.
- Make several small suncatchers and decorate a whole tree or outdoor space.
- Pay attention to what happens as the ice melts. How does freezing and melting connect to the water cycle?
Document Your Discoveries
- Draw or describe your frozen suncatcher in your Nature Notebook.
- How long does it last before melting?
- What materials did you use?
- How does it look in the morning versus the afternoon?
Show us your photos and drawings on social media by using the hashtag #GreenHour.
Bonus:
- Looking for more ways to support wildlife outdoors? Explore Gifts for Wildlife and find more crafty projects to help birds and other animals find food and shelter.
- Learn more about ice and how freezing and melting are part of the water cycle with Ranger Rick®.
