How to make a Wire Wrapped Tree Sun Catcher!

I really love the look of sun catchers.  They brighten up even the most dreary day.  And the great thing about living in my RV is that while I might not have a ton of wall space, I have lots of windows.  And what a great way to fill them! I’d love to show you how to make your own wire wrapped tree sun catcher.  It is easier than you might think!

For this project I used: 

Copper wire in 3 different gauges (from thick to thin)
Assorted wood, glass and shell beads
Marbles

You will also need: Pliers, Glass Glue

Begin by using the heaviest gauge (or thickest) copper wire to create the frame for the suncatcher.  Make the sides about 6″ long and wrap the wire around a dowel or paintbrush handle at each corner.

Clip the wire when you get to the last corner with wire cutters, and use pliers to crimp the end to the first loop.  (see above)  You now have a square frame.

To make the holder, wrap the end of the heavy gauge copper wire around a dowel or paintbrush to get it started, and then use your fingers to manipulate the wire into a pretty coil.  Do this on each end and then use the dowel to create a loop in the middle for hanging.

Attach the hanger to the top of the frame with the smallest gauge wire.  Simply wrap it around the two larger wires, and cut with wire cutters.

Create a coiled decoration for the top of the frame using the heavy gauge wire, and then attach it with the smallest gauge wire.

Your frame is now complete and we are ready to start the tree!

The tree is a free form created with the smaller gauge wires.  Begin at the bottom of the frame, wrapping the wire onto the frame.  (You will find that pliers are very useful on this project).  Move up the base of the tree and anchor the wire at the top of the frame.  Do not clip off the extra wire, continue it on to add branches, wrapping it and crimping where you need to.

Then add more wires, contributing to the shape of the tree, always starting at the bottom and working up.  As you get into the branches, start adding beads.

It looks a little messy at first, but as you add wires and beads, your tree will soon take shape!

I could have stopped here, but see those pretty colored marbles at the top of this photo?  Well, they needed to go on the suncatcher too!  I placed them into the branches of the tree and adhered them with glass glue.  (Do not use hot glue for this project as it will let go in the heat of the sun).

And here is my completed project!  I just love the colors of the beads with the sun shining through!!

For more Sun Catcher Projects, click here!

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