a simple craft :: pony bead sun catchers

While the kids and I have been loving all this Summertime sun, as a true Michigander, I know we’ll be seeing less of that lovable sunshine in just a few short months. Sad, but true. So, while we can, we’re capturing the sun and all those Summer colors in these adorable Pony Bead Sun Catchers!

This is a very simple craft with very few supplies needed but something the kids will just be amazed at!

Here’s what you need ::

Muffin Tin — You probably won’t want to use this for muffins later so pick up a cheap one at the dollar store and just keep it for future crafts.
Pony Beads — What ever colors you like. We used the ones that had built-in glitter. You can find them at your local craft store.
Small Washers — We used these Necklace Connectors we found at Michaels in the jewelry supply aisle, but any small washers will work. You just want something that creates a small hole for you.
String — Something you can use to hang your sun catchers in your window! Of course, ours had to be glittery. Always glittery.

While you have your oven heating up on the highest temperature setting (the one just below broil), place a washer in each muffin tin space and then let the kids fill the rest of the space with the pony beads (no need to grease your tins). They can just toss them in there randomly (just be sure to fill the space and have only one layer or beads) or let them get creative and make a pattern out of the bead colors.

Next, pop them in the oven for about 10 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them, as your oven may take less or more time than mine.

When they look like all the beads are melted, go ahead and remove them from the oven and let them cool. Give your muffin tin a little twist and they’ll pop right out. Or at least they’ll loosen up enough that you can dump them out.

Add a string and let them dangle in your window!

Seriously, these are ridiculously simple to make but your kids are going to think you’re amazing!