These rainbow sun catchers are simple to make with pipe cleaners and beads, and they add a bright splash of color to any window at home or in the classroom. Kids can create them for St. Patrick’s Day or anytime to welcome spring.
We recently experimented with beaded pipe cleaners after making some beaded rainbow art, and my favorite result was this rainbow sun catcher.
It’s easy to make and looks lovely when sunlight filters through the beads, creating a cheerful, colorful display.
This version is even simpler than some beaded pipe cleaner projects because it doesn’t require a glue gun. Younger children may need help shaping the rainbow, while older kids can complete it independently or with minimal assistance.
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Supplies:
- Pipe cleaners in rainbow colors (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple)
- Assorted craft beads (pony beads, metallic beads, or similar)
- Cotton puffs for clouds
- String or fishing line for hanging
Instructions:
1. Gather pipe cleaners in rainbow colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. If you’d like, teach kids the ROY G. BIV mnemonic to help them remember the order of the colors.
2. Have your child thread beads that match each pipe cleaner’s color, leaving a small bit of pipe cleaner free at each end. Mixing different bead sizes and finishes can make the sun catcher catch the light in interesting ways.
3. Lay the beaded pipe cleaners side by side in rainbow order. When all the pipe cleaners are loaded with beads, twist the ends together at both sides to join the colors.
4. Twist the joined pipe cleaners into a loose spiral, then push each end into a cotton puff to form fluffy cloud shapes. You don’t need glue—the pipe cleaners should hold securely if pushed in far enough.
5. Gently bend the spiral into an arc so it resembles a rainbow. Shape the cotton puffs so they look like puffy clouds attached at each end.
6. Tie a length of fishing line or fine thread to the top of the arc and hang the sun catcher in a sunny window. The beads will sparkle and cast colorful reflections throughout the room.
This craft is quick, affordable, and very kid-friendly. It’s a bright, festive decoration for St. Patrick’s Day or a simple way to celebrate the arrival of spring.
You can find more easy St. Patrick’s Day crafts for kids in our collection of projects.
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