Resin Collection
_Creating resin pendants is a rewarding and wonderfully creative avenue that I explored, more-so in 2012. It is a multi-step process that requires several days to complete.
When I first started experimenting, I used images found online. After finding the right image, I crop it to fit either the mold it will form in, or the bezel it will sit in. Once these images are printed out, I coat it with Mod Podge which seals the paper. Once the images are fully dry, I cut them and double check that it fits correctly into the bezel or mold. Next comes the resin. I mix it (a very gentle and exact process), and poor it into its bezel or mold. Being careful to release any bubbles that form, I either use a heat gun to bring them to the surface to pop. Once everything is in place, the pendants are covered (to keep dust or other particles from settling into the resin) and set aside to cure for 2-3 days. The ones that lay in a bezel stay as is, but the ones used in a mold will need to be sanded down and smoothed. After this process is finished, the molded pieces are given a "shine" by using an extra coat of fresh resin on the top or by spraying it with a clear lacquer. A backing is glued in place on the ones used in a mold, and the ribbon/wire/cording/chain is attached to create the finished piece.
The newer designs take even more time and creativity. Using molds or bezels I use a marbling technique to achieve the desired "swirl effect", or use objects such as glitter, wire, beads, or stickers to embed into the resin. Sometimes the design I have in mind will take 2-4 *separate* sessions of resin coloring/coating to achieve the desired look. It's a fun process to see unfold, and it's very exciting when I see the finished result!
For a few photos of the process, as well as tips on a few things not to do, check out the "behind-the-scenes" section by clicking here.
When I first started experimenting, I used images found online. After finding the right image, I crop it to fit either the mold it will form in, or the bezel it will sit in. Once these images are printed out, I coat it with Mod Podge which seals the paper. Once the images are fully dry, I cut them and double check that it fits correctly into the bezel or mold. Next comes the resin. I mix it (a very gentle and exact process), and poor it into its bezel or mold. Being careful to release any bubbles that form, I either use a heat gun to bring them to the surface to pop. Once everything is in place, the pendants are covered (to keep dust or other particles from settling into the resin) and set aside to cure for 2-3 days. The ones that lay in a bezel stay as is, but the ones used in a mold will need to be sanded down and smoothed. After this process is finished, the molded pieces are given a "shine" by using an extra coat of fresh resin on the top or by spraying it with a clear lacquer. A backing is glued in place on the ones used in a mold, and the ribbon/wire/cording/chain is attached to create the finished piece.
The newer designs take even more time and creativity. Using molds or bezels I use a marbling technique to achieve the desired "swirl effect", or use objects such as glitter, wire, beads, or stickers to embed into the resin. Sometimes the design I have in mind will take 2-4 *separate* sessions of resin coloring/coating to achieve the desired look. It's a fun process to see unfold, and it's very exciting when I see the finished result!
For a few photos of the process, as well as tips on a few things not to do, check out the "behind-the-scenes" section by clicking here.
Posted 5/23/12
Posted 1/6/12
Posted June 22, 2011
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