It is important to create the sun catcher while it is in an immobile state. You must keep it on the work surface the entire time, or you can ruin your design. Be sure to allow at least 24 hours for drying time once your sun catcher design is complete.

After it dries, look over your sun catcher – check to see if there is any epoxy residue on the mirror or stone and gently rub it off. Once that is complete, you are ready to deliver it to your gift recipient.

Another great outdoor decoration option is a stepping stone mosaic. You can purchase stepping stones at a very affordable price at your local hardware or home improvement store. While there, pick up some mortar as well.

Then, get the hammer out and have fun destroying old china, colored bottles or colored glass. You can find these materials at garage sales or even around the house. Make sure you keep your broken materials contained (either in a bucket or on some plastic) and remove any small pieces that could become lodged in someone’s foot or hand.

Once you have your materials ready, draw a design on your stone. There are several stained glass designs on the web, or just pictures that you may like. Print them out and draw it on your stone. Then, lay out your design on the stone with the mosaic pieces. Once you have the design how you like, mix the mortar, and pick up each piece, placing mortar on its back side, and then firmly set it on the stepping stone.

After you have mortared each mosaic piece, allow to dry per the mortar’s instructions. After it has dried, use the mortar to grout the stepping stone – making sure all crevices are filled. While grouting the stepping stone, be sure to wipe the mortar off the actual mosaic pieces so it won’t dry on and cloud the design. Do this very carefully with a damp sponge, avoiding the crevices as best you can.

Once it dries, you are ready to pack it up and give it to that special someone. Be careful lifting it, as it will be heavy.

Other gift ideas for birthdays or Christmas include: