Alexei Volkov
Preserving objects in plastic resin is a great way to create unique art, jewellery, or home decor. It involves drying and embedding objects in a resin mould, which can be made from silicone, hard plastic, metal, or wood. The type of resin used is important, as some objects with high water content may rot and turn mouldy. Epoxy resin is a popular choice for preserving flowers, while clear polyester casting resin is often used for insects. It is crucial to follow safety guidelines and mixing instructions for the chosen resin. Once the resin is mixed, it is poured into the mould in layers to avoid cracking and air bubbles. After curing, the preserved object can be polished, varnished, or painted, and even turned into functional items like trays or lamps.
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What You'll Learn
How to preserve flowers in plastic resin
Preserving flowers in plastic resin is a great way to create a unique keepsake or a functional piece of home decor. There are a few steps to follow to ensure the flowers are properly preserved and the final product is aesthetically pleasing.
First, it is important to start with dried flowers. Fresh flowers will rot and change colour if they are not dried before being placed in the resin. There are several methods to dry flowers, including using silica gel or pressing them in a book. For silica gel drying, place the flowers in a container with a tight-fitting lid and cover the bottom of the container with a thin layer of silica gel. Leave the flowers for about two weeks to ensure they are completely dry. For book pressing, place the flowers between sheets of parchment paper and shut them in a heavy book for about a week.
Once the flowers are dried, it is time to select a mould. Silicone moulds are a popular choice as they are flexible, non-stick, and easy to remove. Choose a mould that is big enough to fit the flowers and has the desired shape. Measure the mould and calculate the amount of resin needed using a resin calculator.
Before pouring the resin, mist the mould with a light layer of resin mould release to protect the mould and make demoulding easier. Then, pour the resin into the mould, being careful not to pour too quickly to avoid air bubbles. Place the mould on a flat, level surface to ensure the final product is even.
Next, arrange the flowers in the mould. When working with dried flowers, they will often float to the top, so it is recommended to create the piece in two layers. First, place the flowers in the mould and then fill it with resin to the top. Use tweezers or a mixing stick to ensure proper placement of the flowers.
Finally, let the resin cure. Curing time will vary depending on the resin, but it is typically at least 48 hours. A heat gun or torch can be used to pop any bubbles that form during the curing process.
Once the resin is fully cured, carefully remove it from the mould. Trim off any excess resin or rough edges with scissors or sandpaper. Now you have successfully preserved your flowers in plastic resin!
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How to preserve insects in plastic resin
Preserving insects in plastic resin is a great DIY project. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Firstly, ensure you have the right equipment. You will need gloves, safety goggles, a well-ventilated area, a clean and dry workspace, a clear casting resin, a small bottle of resin catalyst hardener, a mixing cup, a stirring stick, a mould, and an insect. Insect preservationists typically use one of several brands of clear polyester casting resin. You can buy silicone moulds online or in craft stores.
Next, calculate the amount of resin you will need for each pour and the number of drops of catalyst to add. The ratio will be on the tin's instructions. You will need multiple layers of resin for each casting, so bear this in mind.
Now, pour the resin into your mixing cup, following the specific mixing instructions on the resin package. Here is a typical mix for a base layer: pour 1/2 inch of resin base into the cup, add 40-45 drops of the catalyst, and stir slowly but thoroughly for about a minute. Stir slowly to avoid adding air bubbles to the resin.
Once the resin is mixed, pour it into your mould. Pour slowly to avoid adding air bubbles to the mixture. Pour to a depth of about 1/4 inch.
Wait for the resin to become tacky. This will take around 30 minutes to an hour. Once tacky, use tweezers to gently place the insect into the mould, upside down. Remember, the bottom of the mould will be the top of your finished item.
Finally, pour the second layer of resin over the insect, covering it completely. Allow the resin to cure for 24 hours or more, depending on the manufacturer's instructions, before removing it from the mould.
You should now have a beautifully preserved insect in resin. You can make paperweights, coasters, or display your creation on a shelf.
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How to prevent mould when preserving in plastic resin
Preserving items in plastic resin is a great way to create unique pieces of art or décor. However, mould can be a common issue when sealing items in resin. Here are some tips to prevent mould when preserving items in plastic resin:
Prepare your items properly
Before placing items in resin, it is crucial to ensure they are completely dry. Fresh food items with high water content, such as fruits and flowers, will rot and discolour if not properly dried first. You can dry flowers naturally in a vase or box, or try the popular method of dry pressing flowers in a book. After drying flowers, protect them further by applying a thin layer of clear glue or spray plastic. This safeguards the flowers from environmental factors and prevents unwanted reactions when they come into contact with the resin.
Choose the right mould
Silicone moulds are the most popular choice for resin projects as they are easy to use and come in various shapes and sizes. However, all moulds should be properly cleaned and stored to prevent mould growth. Clean your moulds with soap and water, and ensure they are completely dry before use. Store your moulds in a cool, dark environment, as direct sunlight and high heat can weaken or damage silicone over time.
Work in a controlled environment
Keep your work environment at a stable temperature to prevent cracking in your resin due to temperature changes. Extreme temperatures can also affect the curing process and cause mould growth.
Use a top coat
Applying a top coat to your finished resin project can protect it from bad weather conditions and manage shrinkage and expansion, reducing the possibility of cracking.
Avoid using fresh items
While photos, mementos, and heirlooms can be embedded in resin, fresh items with high water content will eventually rot and discolour. Dehydrate any food items before using them in your resin projects, and be aware that even dehydrated food can be challenging to work with and may not produce a desirable result.
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How to avoid bubbles when preserving in plastic resin
Preserving items in plastic resin is a great way to protect art, seal jewellery, and fill moulds in furniture and sculptures. However, bubbles are one of the biggest issues when working with resin. Here are some detailed tips on how to avoid bubbles when preserving items in plastic resin:
Prepare the Workspace and Materials
Before you begin, ensure your workspace is at a stable temperature. The ideal temperature for both your resin and your workspace is slightly warmer than room temperature, between 70-85°F or 24-30°C. Cold resin will result in a lot of trapped bubbles, so it is important to heat your resin before use. This can be done by placing the resin bottles in a plastic bag and then into a hot water bath for 5-10 minutes.
Additionally, porous organic materials like wood, leaves, fabric, paper, and flowers can release air bubbles into the resin. To prevent this, seal natural materials with a brush-on or spray sealant before applying the resin. If using flowers, ensure they are completely dry before placing them in the resin.
Mix and Apply the Resin
When mixing the resin and hardener, stir slowly and deliberately, scraping the sides and bottom of your mixing container. Avoid whipping the resin as this will induce more bubbles. When applying the resin, pour it slowly and in thin layers to avoid bubbles. If using a mould, dust the surface with baby powder or mica powder to eliminate surface tension and prevent new bubbles from forming.
Remove Remaining Bubbles
Even with careful preparation and application, some bubbles may still form. To remove these, a torch is the most effective method. The flame heats the resin surface, thinning it out and allowing bubbles to escape. Alternatively, a heat gun or hairdryer can be used, but these may not get hot enough to be effective.
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How to remove items from plastic resin
Preserving items in plastic resin involves drying the items, applying a protective layer, and then placing them in a mould with resin. However, once resin has set, it is very difficult to remove items from it without damaging them.
If you wish to remove items from plastic resin, the method will depend on whether the resin is uncured or cured. Uncured resin is still liquid and tacky, whereas cured resin has solidified and become hard and plastic-like.
To remove uncured resin, use a plastic scraper or putty knife to gently scrape off the resin from the surface.
To remove cured resin, first, apply heat to the resin using a heat gun or hair dryer. Be careful not to overheat the resin, as it may damage the surface. Once the resin has softened, gently scrape it off using a plastic scraper or putty knife. Work slowly to avoid scratching or damaging the material underneath. If there is any residue left, soak a microfiber cloth in isopropyl alcohol and gently rub the area to remove the remaining resin.
For stubborn resin stains, use acetone as a solvent. Apply a small amount of acetone to a clean cloth and gently dab the affected area. However, be cautious when using acetone, as it can be harsh on some surfaces.
To remove resin stains from fabrics, first, scrape off any excess resin with a butter knife or dull blade. Be careful not to damage the fabric. Apply rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and gently dab it onto the resin stain. Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the resin. Then, apply white vinegar to the stain and blot it with a clean cloth. The acidic properties of vinegar help break down the resin. Finally, mix liquid laundry detergent with water and scrub the affected area with a brush. Rinse the fabric thoroughly with water and allow it to air dry. If necessary, repeat the process until the stain is no longer visible.
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Frequently asked questions
First, dry your flowers naturally in a vase or box. Then, apply a thin layer of clear glue or spray plastic to protect the flowers from environmental factors. Next, choose a mould that will show off your flowers. Mist the mould with a light layer of resin mould release, insert the plug into the top centre, and arrange the flowers. Finally, pour in the resin slowly to avoid air bubbles.
Avoid preserving items with high water content, such as fresh food, as they will rot and turn mouldy. Also, avoid items that you may want to remove from the resin in the future, as this will be almost impossible without destroying the item.
Silicone moulds are the best choice for preserving flowers in plastic resin because they are easy to use, come in many shapes and sizes, and are easy to remove.
To avoid cracking, pour the resin in layers, allowing each layer to partially dry before adding the next. Keep your working environment at a stable temperature. You can also use a top coat to protect against bad weather conditions.
