How To Preserve Flowers In Resin

Preserving flowers in resin is a wonderful way to create lasting mementos and beautiful decorations. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve this:

Materials Needed:

1. Fresh flowers
2. Silica gel (for drying flowers)
3. Clear casting resin
4. Resin hardener
5. Mixing cups
6. Mixing sticks
7. Rubber gloves
8. Respirator mask (resin fumes can be harmful)
9. Protective work surface cover (such as wax paper or plastic sheeting)
10. Mold (silicone molds work best)
11. Tweezers
12. Sandpaper (optional, for finishing)

Steps:

1. Dry the Flowers:

• Choose the Flowers: Select fresh flowers that are in good condition.
• Drying with Silica Gel: Place the flowers in a shallow container and carefully cover them with silica gel. Leave them for a few days to a week, depending on flower size. This method helps maintain their color and shape.

2. Prepare Your Workspace:

• Ventilation: Ensure your workspace is well-ventilated.
• Cover Your Surface: Lay down protective sheeting or wax paper to protect your work surface.
• Wear Protection: Use rubber gloves and a respirator mask to protect yourself from resin fumes and contact.

3. Prepare the Resin:

• Mix Resin and Hardener: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing resin and hardener. Typically, it is a 1:1 ratio, but double-check as it can vary.
• Mix Thoroughly: Stir the mixture slowly to avoid creating bubbles, ensuring it is thoroughly combined.

4. Pour the First Layer:

• First Layer: Pour a thin layer of resin into the mold. This layer will act as a base.
• Pop Bubbles: Use a toothpick or a small tool to pop any bubbles that arise in the resin.

5. Place the Flowers:

• Arrange Flowers: Using tweezers, carefully place the dried flowers into the resin layer. Arrange them as you like, but work quickly before the resin starts to set.
• Secure Position: Gently press the flowers into the resin if needed to ensure they are well-embedded.

6. Pour the Second Layer:

• Second Layer: Mix another batch of resin and pour gently over the flowers, covering them completely.
• Bubble Removal: Use a toothpick, heat gun, or torch to help remove bubbles. Be cautious with heat tools to avoid overheating or burning the resin.

7. Cure the Resin:

• Let It Sit: Allow the resin to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This could take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours.
• Cover: You may want to cover the mold with a box or container to prevent dust from settling on the resin while it cures.

8. Demold and Finish:

• Remove from Mold: Once fully cured, gently remove the resin from the mold.
• Sand Edges (Optional): If there are any rough edges, use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth them out.

Tips:

• Patience is Key: Don’t rush the process. Give ample time for curing to avoid imperfections.
• Temperature Control: Work in a temperature-controlled environment. Resin cures best around 70-80°F (21-27°C).
• Test Small Projects First: If you’re new to working with resin, it might be helpful to practice with smaller projects first to get the hang of the process.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully preserve your flowers in resin, creating beautiful keepsakes that will last for years to come. Enjoy your crafting!