- 1). Select a pattern for your suncatcher. You can freehand a design or select a pattern online or from a coloring book. If you draw your own suncatcher, create lines on the picture to stipulate the size and cut of your glass pieces. The lines on your pattern indicate where the solder will be placed on your finished project. Beginners should select a pattern with larger pieces, since working with small sections of glass requires more skill. Number each section of your pattern consecutively. Make a copy of your suncatcher pattern.
- 2). Cut out each individual section of your suncatcher pattern. Place the cutouts on the stained glass and trace them with a grease pencil. Number the stained-glass pieces with the same numbers that are on the pattern piece. This will help you piece your project together.
- 3). Cut your stained-glass pieces with a glass cutter. Grind the edges with a glass grinder to smooth away any glass shards or rough edges. Wear gloves and safety glasses as you grind the glass. Stained-glass grinders use water to help keep the stained glass from shattering, but you should still observe safety procedures during this process.
- 4). Wrap the edges of each stained-glass section in copper tape. Assemble your pieces to create your stained-glass suncatcher according to the pattern. A metal tray or other fire-resistant work surface should be used when soldering.
- 5). Apply flux to one section of the stained glass where the copper tape meets. Solder the stained-glass pieces together. Alternately flux and solder your stained-glass suncatcher in small sections until you finish the side of the project that is facing you. Once it is cooled, flip your suncatcher over and solder the back in the same way.
- 6). Wrap the perimeter of your suncatcher in copper tape, add flux and run a line of solder around the edge. Place the metal hook where you'd like it and solder it in place.
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