Preserving flowers in resin is a beautiful and creative way to immortalize the natural beauty of blooms. Resin is a versatile and durable material that can encase flowers in a clear, glossy finish, allowing them to retain their color and shape indefinitely. Whether you want to preserve sentimental flowers from a special occasion or create unique decorative pieces, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of preserving flowers in resin.
Understanding Resin
Resin is a two-part polymer material commonly used in art and crafting. It consists of a liquid resin and a hardener. When these two components are mixed together in the right proportions, a chemical reaction occurs, resulting in a hard, clear, and glossy material.
There are two main types of resin used for flower preservation:
a. Epoxy Resin:
Epoxy resin is the most popular choice for preserving flowers. It cures to a hard and durable finish, providing excellent clarity and UV resistance. Epoxy resin is available in various viscosities, making it suitable for different projects.
b. Polyester Resin:
Polyester resin is another option, but it tends to have a yellowing effect over time, which may impact the appearance of the preserved flowers. It is less commonly used for flower preservation compared to epoxy resin.
Selecting Flowers for Preservation
Before you begin the preservation process, choose flowers that are in their prime and free from blemishes or damages. Freshly cut flowers work best for resin preservation, as they retain their colors and shapes more effectively. Dried flowers can also be used, but they may not maintain the same vibrancy as fresh ones.
Popular choices for flower preservation include roses, daisies, lavender, baby’s breath, and small blossoms like forget-me-nots. Experiment with different flower varieties to create unique and personalized resin creations.
Preparing the Flowers
To ensure successful preservation, proper flower preparation is crucial. Follow these steps:
a. Trim the Stems: Trim the flower stems to the desired length for your project. Remove any excess leaves and foliage.
b. Dry the Flowers: If the flowers are freshly cut, allow them to air-dry for a few hours before proceeding. This step helps reduce moisture content, preventing air bubbles in the resin.
c. Pressing (Optional): For a flatter and more uniform look, consider pressing the flowers before placing them in resin. Use a flower press or place the flowers between absorbent paper and heavy books for a few days.
d. Seal with Spray Sealant (Optional): To prevent bleeding of colors and to protect delicate petals, consider using a clear spray sealant on the flowers before embedding them in resin. This step is particularly useful for more delicate flowers.
Choosing the Resin Mold
Selecting the right resin mold is essential for creating the desired shape and size of your preserved flowers. Resin molds come in various shapes, including spheres, cubes, pyramids, and more. Additionally, there are flat molds that can be used to create resin coasters or pendants with embedded flowers.
Choose a mold that complements your design vision and allows enough space for the flowers to be placed comfortably without being overcrowded. Silicone molds are commonly used for resin casting due to their flexibility, which makes it easier to remove the cured resin.
Mixing and Pouring Resin
Properly mixing and pouring the resin is crucial to achieve a flawless and bubble-free finish. Follow these steps:
a. Read the Instructions: Carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions on the resin packaging. Different brands may have slightly different curing times and mixing ratios.
b. Wear Safety Gear: Resin can be toxic and may emit strong fumes. Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear safety gear, including gloves and a mask.
c. Measure Resin and Hardener: Using separate measuring cups, measure the resin and hardener in the correct ratio as instructed by the manufacturer. Accurate measurement is essential for proper curing.
d. Mix Thoroughly: Pour the resin and hardener into a clean mixing cup and stir them together thoroughly. Scrape the sides and bottom of the cup to ensure a complete blend.
e. Avoid Overmixing: Be mindful of overmixing, as excessive stirring can introduce air bubbles into the resin.
f. De-Gas the Resin (Optional): If you want to minimize bubbles, you can use a heat gun or a handheld torch to gently remove air bubbles from the mixed resin.
g. Pouring the Resin: Carefully pour the mixed resin into the mold, filling it to the desired height. If you plan to create multiple layers with flowers, pour a thin layer of resin first and allow it to partially cure before adding the flowers.
Embedding the Flowers
Place the prepared flowers into the poured resin, gently arranging them to achieve your desired design. Ensure that the flowers are fully submerged in the resin and evenly spaced to create a balanced look. Use a toothpick or a craft stick to adjust the position of the flowers if needed.
Curing and Removing Air Bubbles
Allow the resin to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Cover the mold with a lid or a box to prevent dust or debris from settling on the resin while it cures.
To remove any remaining air bubbles that may have formed during the pouring process, use a heat gun or a handheld torch. Gently pass the heat source over the resin surface, which will cause the bubbles to rise and pop. Be cautious not to overheat the resin or hold the heat source too close to the surface.
Adding Layers (Optional)
For a multi-dimensional effect, you can add additional layers of resin with flowers at different intervals. Allow each layer to partially cure before adding the next layer to prevent the flowers from sinking or floating.
Demolding and Finishing
Once the resin has fully cured, gently remove the preserved flower piece from the mold. For silicone molds, carefully flex the mold to release the cured resin. If you encounter difficulty removing the resin, place the mold in the freezer for a short period to loosen the resin.
To create a polished and finished look, sand any rough edges or imperfections on the cured resin using fine-grit sandpaper. Follow up with a polishing compound to achieve a smooth and glossy surface.
Storing and Displaying Preserved Flowers
To preserve the beauty of your resin-encased flowers, display them away from direct sunlight and excessive heat, as prolonged exposure to UV rays may cause the flowers to fade over time. When storing preserved flowers, wrap them in acid-free tissue paper or place them in a display case to protect them from dust and potential damage.
Conclusion
Preserving flowers in resin is a creative and rewarding art form that allows you to cherish the beauty of nature for years to come. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can create stunning resin creations that capture the essence of blooming flowers. Whether it’s a thoughtful gift for a loved one or a decorative piece for your own home, the art of preserving flowers in resin offers an enduring display of natural beauty. With practice and experimentation, you can create unique and personalized resin pieces that showcase the elegance of preserved flowers in all their glory.