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Finally! Spring is here and I realize in Germany that means tons of rain and cloudy skies. However, the temperatures are rising and spring festivals are just around the corner. To get the family in the spring mood, crafting is a great way to pass the time on rainy days and keep the kiddos from driving you crazy . . . I mean, keep them entertained.
Before you know it, the sun will be shining more often than not, so we decided on a craft that captures those rays and turns them into brilliant colors around the house - stained glass! I’ve always admired stained glass windows in churches and homes. Since we’re renting our home here in Germany, we’re not changing out any windows. Also, they’re not exactly cheap even when purchased at a flea market. Without breaking any child labor laws or the bank, I put my toddlers to work.
What you’ll need:
Black construction paper or cardstock
Contact paper
Tissue paper – Cut into approximately one-inch squares.
Wax paper
Glue stick
Scissors
With the black paper, cut a thick outline (approximately half-inch) of the design or shape you want to use. In this case, we did a tulip and a butterfly. If you’re not comfortable free handing the pictures, you can find many templates online to trace. The designs can be very simple or very intricate. For more intricate details, I recommend cutting the tissue paper into smaller squares.
Put your cut-out shapes onto the sticky side of the contact paper. Put the white back underneath so you can see the shapes more easily.
Place the tissue paper squares onto the design making sure it’s completely covered. Don’t worry if it goes over the outside. It will be cut off at the end.
Tear off a piece of wax paper that’s larger than the design and cover the area with glue from the glue stick.
Turn your shape over and place it pretty side up on top of the wax paper. Make sure you completely smooth out the two pieces you’ve put together and allow the glue to dry.
Trim the excess from around your design. Tape it to a window and voilà! You now have your own personalized stained glass creation. Don’t forget to write their name and the year in permanent marker.
Tip: This project is also a great way for kids to practice the coordination of using scissors. For younger ones, have them cut out the tissue paper. It doesn’t have to be precise, so let them have at it. Simply draw lines across the paper for them to follow. If you have older children, cutting out the shape gives them more advanced level practice.
Happy crafting!
