Materials & Care FAQ

 Materials & Care FAQ

Thank you for bringing an Ultra Violent Light piece into your space! Our pieces are handmade in Seattle using premium cast acrylic and plywoods including maple, birch, mahogany, and sapele. Below you'll find care guidance specific to each material.

Acrylic — Cleaning & Scratch Prevention

How do I clean my acrylic suncatcher or jewelry?

Wipe acrylic surfaces gently with a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth. For dust and light smudges, dry-wiping is usually sufficient. For fingerprints or light residue, dampen the cloth slightly with plain water and wipe gently, then dry immediately with a clean cloth.

Avoid: paper towels, rough fabrics, abrasive sponges, or anything with a gritty texture — these can leave fine scratches on acrylic surfaces.

Can I use household glass cleaners or acrylic cleaners?

We recommend caution with any cleaning product on our pieces. Many household glass cleaners contain ammonia or alcohol, which can cloud, craze, or damage acrylic over time. If you feel a cleaner is necessary, choose one specifically labeled as safe for acrylic or polycarbonate — and always test on a small, inconspicuous area first.

How do I prevent scratches?

  • Handle pieces by the edges rather than the face when possible.
  • Store jewelry in a soft pouch or lined box, separate from metal pieces.
  • Avoid placing acrylic pieces face-down on hard or gritty surfaces.
  • Keep pieces away from keys, coins, or other sharp objects during storage or transport.

Sunlight Exposure

Can I hang my suncatcher in direct sunlight?

Suncatchers are designed to be displayed in windows and to interact beautifully with natural light — that's what makes them magical! However, like all colored materials, prolonged exposure to intense direct sunlight may cause gradual color shift over time. Locations with harsh, all-day direct sun (such as south-facing windows in very sunny climates) may see more change than softer, indirect-light settings.

We use high-quality cast acrylic, which offers better UV resistance than many alternatives, but we cannot guarantee permanent color stability in all light conditions.

Are the colors UV-stabilized?

The cast acrylic we source is manufactured with UV inhibitors, which helps slow color fading compared to extruded acrylic. For best longevity, we recommend enjoying your piece in bright indirect light or rotating sun exposure seasonally if you notice changes.

Mounting & Hanging

What hardware is included with my piece?

Hardware varies by product. Suncatchers typically include a hanging chain, hook, clasp, or jump ring appropriate for window display. Specific included hardware is noted in each product's listing. If you have a question about a specific piece, feel free to contact us.

How should I hang my suncatcher safely?

  • Use a sturdy suction cup hook rated for the weight of your piece, or a small nail or adhesive hook on your window frame or wall.
  • Ensure the hook or anchor point is secure before hanging.
  • Check the hanging cord or line periodically for wear, especially if the piece is in a high-traffic area or frequently moved.
  • For larger or heavier pieces, we recommend a fixed hook rather than a suction cup.

Can I hang pieces outdoors?

Our pieces are designed and tested for indoor display. Outdoor environments expose materials to moisture, temperature swings, wind, and prolonged UV that may significantly reduce the life of the piece and its hardware. Acrylic-only suncatchers can live outside, but their vibrant colors may fade faster over time.

Can I drill into or modify my piece for a different hanging method?

Acrylic can be drilled successfully with the correct bits and technique, but we are unable to provide support for modifications made after purchase. Any modifications are at the owner's discretion and may affect the piece's integrity or appearance.

Wood Care

What types of wood do you use?

We work with plywoods including maple, birch, mahogany, and sapele. Each wood has its own grain character, and natural variation in color and figure is expected and part of the beauty of the material.

How do I care for wood pieces?

  • Keep wood pieces away from prolonged moisture, standing water, and high-humidity environments.
  • Avoid placing wood pieces near heating vents, radiators, or other sources of dry heat, which can cause warping or cracking over time.
  • Dust with a soft dry cloth.
  • Do not submerge or wet-wipe wood surfaces.

Are wood pieces finished or sealed?

Finish varies by product. Some pieces are left with a natural laser-cut edge and light sanding, while others may have an applied beeswax-based finish. Some wood has a premium coating applied at our supplier. Specific finish information is noted in individual product listings where relevant. If you have questions about a specific piece, contact us.

General Safe Use

Are your pieces safe around children and pets?

Our pieces are decorative objects intended for adult display. Small components such as jump rings, chains, or hardware present a potential hazard for young children and pets if accessed. We recommend storing or hanging pieces out of reach of children and animals, and inspecting hardware periodically.

I have a question not covered here. How do I reach you?

We're happy to help! Visit our Contact page or email us directly. We do our best to respond within 1–2 business days.

Handmade in Seattle by Ultra Violent Light. Every piece is made with care and we want yours to last.