Winter brings with it crisp air, cozy sweaters, and some of the most creative opportunities for kids’ crafts. At Wordplay Kids’ Books, we believe there’s nothing quite like a hands-on project that encourages artistic expression, builds fine motor skills, and brightens up the long winter days. That’s why we’re thrilled to share step-by-step instructions for a delightful Snowflake Suncatcher Craft that you and your children can make together. This craft is inspired by a popular winter activity found at DarcyandBrian.com.
This snowflake suncatcher is simple to make with basic household materials, and it transforms plain tissue paper into a kaleidoscope of winter colors when sunlight hits it just right. It’s perfect for everyone from toddlers to elementary-aged kids, and it makes a cheerful decoration for windows, classrooms, or winter-themed gallery walls.
DOWNLOAD FREE TEMPLATES TO USE HERE
Why This Winter Craft Is Perfect for Kids
One of the best things about this snowflake suncatcher project is that it’s truly accessible to children of all ages. Younger kids can enjoy tearing or cutting tissue paper with supervision, while older children can take charge of the entire process. This makes the craft flexible for family time at home, group projects in classrooms, or even craft clubs.
While this craft feels like pure fun, it’s packed with developmental benefits too. As children cut, glue, and assemble their snowflakes, they’re practicing fine motor skills that are critical for writing, manipulating small objects, and hand-eye coordination. Deciding on colors, placing tiny pieces of tissue, and creating a balanced pattern all help boost creativity and problem-solving skills.
Beyond skill building, this craft invites kids to make something beautiful that they can proudly display. There’s something magical about seeing a window filled with colorful, handmade snowflakes that catches the light and casts cheerful reflections across the room.
Gathering Your Craft Supplies
Before the project begins, it’s time to collect your materials. Fortunately, you likely already have most of what you need around the house or can easily pick up a few inexpensive items.
Here’s what you’ll need:
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A snowflake craft template — You can download one for free here!
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Printer paper — Regular paper works best as it’s thin enough for light to shine through.
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Tissue paper in assorted colors — Blues, purples, and pinks work beautifully for a winter theme, but feel free to mix in any colors your kids love.
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Glue stick — This keeps the project neat and kid-friendly.
Optional but helpful extras include pre-cut tissue paper squares and simple scissors designed for little hands.
How to Make Your Snowflake Suncatcher
Now that your supplies are ready, it’s time to create!
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Print and prepare your template. Lay it flat on your work surface.
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Cut or tear tissue paper. Have your child cut or tear the tissue into small squares or shapes. This part is great for fine motor skill development.
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Glue the tissue paper. Apply glue to the snowflake template and stick tissue pieces all over it. Don’t worry about staying inside the lines — excess can be trimmed later.
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Let it dry. This step is important so the tissue paper adheres well.
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Cut out your snowflake. Once dry, carefully trim around the snowflake outline. If the tissue makes it hard to see the lines, flip it over — the black outline will be easier to follow from the back.
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Display your creation. Hang it in a window or on a wall where the light can shine through the colors.
When sunlight filters through these suncatchers, the effect is like a piece of stained glass made by little hands — and that’s pure winter magic.
Creative Ways to Showcase Your Snowflakes
Once your snowflake suncatchers are complete, there are several ways to display them:
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Use removable window mounting tabs or double-sided tape to stick them on windows.
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Punch a small hole at the top and thread yarn or string through to hang them like ornaments.
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Laminate your snowflakes with self-adhesive sheets for a lasting keepsake you can enjoy year after year.
These handmade snowflakes make fantastic gifts for family members, holiday party decorations, or centerpieces for a winter reading nook — especially when paired with seasonal books.
Extend the Fun With Winter Activities and Books
Crafting pairs wonderfully with reading: after making suncatchers, why not cuddle up with a few winter-themed books? Classics like The Snowy Day bring the wonder of winter to life, while titles such as The Mitten and Over and Under the Snow enrich children’s understanding of snowy days and winter habitats.
You can also explore other winter activities to keep kids engaged on cold days, such as:
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Winter Pictionary and storytelling games
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Sensory snowflake bottles or themed STEM projects
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Snowman crafts and coffee filter snowflakes
Each of these activities strengthens different skills — from language to science — while keeping play and creativity at the core.
Celebrate Winter With Creativity
At Wordplay Kids’ Books, we know that play and learning go hand in hand. This snowflake suncatcher craft is more than a way to pass the time — it’s an invitation to explore color, texture, light, and imagination. Whether you’re crafting with your own children or guiding a group of eager young makers, this project promises smiles, pride, and a window full of winter brilliance.
Stay warm, keep crafting, and enjoy the magic of every handmade snowflake.