Today, we're exploring the delicate art of preserving dried flowers in resin, a technique that allows you to capture the fleeting beauty of nature in a lasting piece of art.
Dried flowers encapsulated in clear resin create stunning, three-dimensional artworks that can be used in a variety of applications, from jewelry to home decor. Here are some pro tips to help you perfect this technique:
1. Choose the Right Flowers
Not all flowers dry well, so it's essential to choose varieties that retain their color and shape. Some good options include roses, daisies, and lavender. Remember, thinner and smaller flowers are easier to work with as they dry faster and lay flatter in the resin.
2. Dry Your Flowers Properly
The key to preserving the beauty of your flowers is to dry them correctly. Pressing flowers in a book is one method, but it can take several weeks. For a quicker option, consider using a microwave flower press, or silica gel crystals (follow the manufacturer’s instructions).
3. Prepare Your Resin
Mix your resin and hardener according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure you're working in a well-ventilated area and wearing appropriate safety gear.
4. Arrange Your Flowers
Pour a thin layer of resin into your mold and gently place your dried flowers onto the resin. Use a spoon or stirring stick to carefully adjust the flowers into your desired arrangement. Keep in mind that most flowers will float, so many artists let the base layer cure to anchor the flowers before adding the next layer. You may see lines from multiple layers from the side of your piece if the side is exposed. This is generally not an issue as people will be looking at the top of the piece, not the sides.
5. Seal with More Resin
Once you're satisfied with your arrangement, slowly pour another layer of resin over the flowers, ensuring they're completely covered. Be sure to pop any bubbles that form using a heat gun or a spritz of alcohol (don’t use both!).
6. Let it Cure
Allow your piece to cure in a dust-free environment for the time recommended by the resin manufacturer. Once fully cured, you can remove your piece from the mold.
Preserving dried flowers in resin allows you to create unique, personal pieces that can be treasured for years to come. With the right materials, the perfect mold and a bit of patience, you can encapsulate the beauty of nature in a tangible form.