How to Hang Your New SunRain Prism Suncatcher
Where and how you hang your SunRain Prism Suncatcher has a big effect on the quality and duration of the rainbow display.
The goal is simple: place the prism suncatcher where direct sunlight can reach the prisms securely and consistently.
A little observation before installing the hook can make a big difference.
Choose the Right Window
Direct sunlight is essential for vivid rainbows.
The best window is one that receives several hours of unobstructed sunlight during the part of the day when you want to enjoy the display.
In the Northern Hemisphere:
- South-facing windows often receive the most consistent sunlight through much of the year.
- West-facing windows can be especially productive in the afternoon.
- East-facing windows are excellent for morning rainbows.
- North-facing windows usually receive less direct sunlight and are often less effective.
Trees, buildings, porches, roof overhangs, curtains, dirty windows and blinds can all reduce the amount of useful sunlight reaching the prisms.
Do a Quick Placement Test
Before installing any hardware, wait until direct sunlight is entering the room.
Hold the suncatcher near the window and slowly move it:
- Higher and lower
- Left and right
- Closer to the glass
- Slightly farther into the room
Watch the walls, ceiling, floor, and furniture for rainbow spectra.
The best location may not be exactly in the center of the window. Sun angle changes throughout the day and throughout the year, so a few inches of movement can make a noticeable difference.
Once you find a strong position, mark the mounting location.
Use a Secure Mounting Point
SunRain Prism Suncatchers are made with genuine lead-crystal prisms, so they have real weight.
Always hang your suncatcher from a secure support.
Depending on your window and room, this may include:
- A properly installed nail
- A secure window-frame mounting point
- A ceiling hook
- A curtain rod capable of supporting the weight
Do not hang the suncatcher from something loose, damaged, temporary, or unable to safely support it.
Install the Hook
If hanging from a window frame, install the appropriate hook or nail securely in the frame.
If hanging from a ceiling or drywall location, use the provided teacup hook and a mounting method appropriate for the surface and the weight being supported.
A small pilot hole can make installation easier in harder materials.
If you are unsure whether a mounting point is strong enough, use a more secure location or appropriate hardware.
Attach the Chain
Once the mounting point is secure, attach the decorative chain and hang the suncatcher.
Make sure all connections are fully closed and secure.
The chain lets you adjust the height of the suncatcher so the prisms sit where direct sunlight reaches them most effectively. Do this by looping the chain back on itself and connecting a link with the lanyard clip.
Adjust the Height
Start with the suncatcher near the portion of the window receiving the strongest direct sun.
Then adjust the chain length.
Moving the suncatcher higher or lower can change:
- How many prisms receive sunlight
- Where the rainbows land
- How far the rainbows travel into the room
- Whether the spectra appear on the floor, walls, or ceiling
There is no single perfect height for every room.
The best position is the one that works with your particular window and sun angle.
Fine-Tune It Over a Few Sunny Days
Do not worry if the first position is not perfect.
Watch the display over several sunny days.
The sun moves across the sky during the day, and its path changes with the seasons.
You may find that a small change in chain length or mounting position noticeably improves the rainbow display.
Keep the Suncatcher Near the Sunlight
The crystal does not need to touch the window.
However, placing it relatively close to the glass usually makes it easier for direct sunlight to reach the prisms before furniture, walls, window frames, or curtains block the beam.
The important thing is that sunlight directly strikes the crystal facets.
Avoid Contact With the Glass
Position the suncatcher so it hangs freely rather than constantly striking the window.
Wind from an open window, pets, children, or movement of curtains can cause the crystal to swing.
Leave enough clearance so the prisms are less likely to hit the glass, wall, or window frame.
Watch for Curtains and Blinds
Curtains and blinds can block sunlight even when the room itself appears bright.
Make sure the suncatcher hangs where window coverings will not shade the prisms during the time you want the rainbow display.
Also make sure cords, curtains, and blinds do not become tangled with the hanging chain.
Adjust for the Seasons
The sun's path changes during the year.
In summer, the sun is higher in the sky. Rainbows may appear more often on floors and lower walls.
In winter, the lower sun can enter windows more deeply and project spectra onto walls and ceilings.
Spring and fall are good times to experiment with position and chain length.
You may only need to raise or lower the suncatcher a little to keep it performing well throughout the year.
Keep the Crystal Clean
Dust and fingerprints can reduce the brilliance of the rainbow display.
Hold the suncatcher by the resin center rather than pulling on the individual prisms.
Use the included microfiber cloth to gently clean the crystal.
A slightly damp microfiber cloth is fine; use mild soap when necessary.
Avoid abrasive cloths, harsh cleaners, dishwashers, vinegar solutions, and immersing the entire suncatcher in water.
If You Need to Store It
Protect the crystal from impact and abrasion.
Store the suncatcher flat in protective packaging or another padded container where the prisms cannot strike one another or other hard objects.
Do not place heavy objects on top of it.
Lead crystal can remain optically clear for many years, but like any fine glass, it can scratch, chip, or break if mishandled.
Final Check
Once your SunRain is hanging:
- Make sure the mounting point is secure.
- Make sure the chain and connections are fully closed.
- Make sure the prisms hang freely.
- Wait for direct sunlight.
- Adjust the height until you get the strongest rainbow display.
Then enjoy the changing light as the sun moves through the day.
Real Sunlight. Real Rainbows. Transform a Sunny Window.