Julia Csanko holds up a frozen suncatcher up to the sun outside her art studio ArtRise on Sunday, Jan. 29, 2023. (Enterprise photo — Aaron Cerbone)

SARANAC LAKE — The Winter Carnival Suncatcher Contest is returning this year, paired with new workshops to help prospective entrants to build a suncatcher.

Prescription Sewing owner Diane Miller says that suncatchers must be submited before Feb. 2 to be considered for the “People’s Choice Award” and bragging rights for the one with the most votes. All ages encouraged to participate. A goal has been set to reach 60 entries this year.

Suncatchers are simple to make from things in everyone’s kitchen. Allowing for creativity anything can be added to individualize entries.

This year there will be two workshops held at the Saranac Lake Free Library to demonstrate helpful tips for making suncatchers. Danielle Roddy of Heartwood Studios, the 2023 winner, will also be demonstrating her special artistic technique.

Workshops will be:

¯ Today, Jan. 10, from 3-4 p.m.

¯ Wednesday, Jan. 17, from 6-7 p.m.

Organizers ask that items used are not something to become trash as they melt, such as paper, plastics, glass or metals. It is an easy process by creating a large, colorful ice cube in a cake pan. Suncatcher themes can be creating colorful lines in ice with food coloring, with a theme such as nature, winter, “Uniquely Saranac Lake,” etcetera.

A size limit of 12 inches round or square is necessary due to considering weight for hanging. All entries will receive a number and zip ties will be provided for hanging.

A video link of how to make a suncatcher will be posted at saranaclakewintercarnival.com. Participants will be asked to register their entries in advance through the Winter Carnival website and deliver their suncatcher to the area to the right of the Palace near the boat launch on Feb. 2 between the hours of 2-4 p.m. or Saturday between 10 a.m. and noon. Organizers ask that entrants register at least a week in advance if they plan to participate so organizers can prepare enough space for hanging all entries.

The top three winners voted on will be announced on Feb. 13.