Creating Wedding Flower Paperweights: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding flower paperweights are a beautiful way to preserve your wedding bouquet and create a lasting memento of your special day. There are a few methods to create these keepsakes, including freeze-drying flowers and embedding them in solid acrylic or resin. The process of gently removing moisture from the flowers can take up to 16 weeks, and the entire creation process can take up to 22 weeks. During this time, the flowers are carefully crafted into a timeless design, often complemented by foliage or personalised plaques. The final product is a stunning paperweight that captures the delicate beauty of your wedding bouquet, making it a perfect gift for couples celebrating their wedding day.

Drying flowers for resin paperweights

Drying Methods:

• Hanging: Hang flowers upside-down by their stems in a dark, well-ventilated area for 2 to 3 weeks. This method is straightforward but time-consuming.
• Silica Gel: Cover flowers with silica gel, a non-toxic desiccant, in a container. This method is quicker, taking 2 to 5 days.
• Flower Desiccant: Similar to silica gel, this sandy material absorbs flower moisture, helping them dry slowly while maintaining their natural shape.
• Microwave: For a quick fix, place flowers with silica gel or desiccant in a microwave-safe container and heat for a short time.

Step-by-step Guide:

• Gather Supplies: Ensure you have fresh flowers and a container with a tight-fitting lid if using the silica gel or flower desiccant method.
• Cut the Flowers: Trim the flower stems, leaving a small portion intact to help the flowers stay upright during the drying process.
• Prepare the Container: Pour a layer of silica gel or flower desiccant into the container.
• Place Flowers in the Container: Nestle the flowers in the drying material, leaving space between them.
• Fill with More Drying Agent: Completely cover the flowers with the drying agent and secure the lid.
• Drying Time: Allow at least seven days for air-drying and 2 to 5 days for silica gel or flower desiccant.
• Remove Flowers: Open the container, pour off the excess drying agent, and gently lift out the flowers. Shake off any remaining particles.

Additional Tips:

• Use dried flowers from a wedding or special occasion, or purchase ready-dried flowers.
• Choose a silicone mould that fits the size of your flower.
• Protect your work area and wear protective gear when working with resin.
• Always dry flowers before adding them to resin to prevent discolouration and ensure successful preservation.

Choosing a mould for your paperweight

Size and Shape

The size and shape of the mould will depend on the type and size of the flower you want to preserve. Consider the dimensions of the flower, including the stem and petals, to ensure it fits comfortably within the mould. For example, if you're preserving a single, large open flower, a smaller mould may be more suitable, whereas if you're planning to include multiple flowers or additional foliage, you'll need a larger mould.

Silicone Moulds

Silicone moulds are a popular choice for this project as they are flexible and stretchable, making it easier to insert the flower and avoid damage. They come in various shapes, such as spheres or half-domes, and different sizes to accommodate different flower sizes. Keep in mind that once a silicone mould is used for resin, it is no longer food-safe.

Casting Depth

When choosing a mould, consider the casting depth recommended by your resin brand. Most resins have specific instructions for how deep you can pour the resin in a single layer. A thicker layer of resin can trap air bubbles and affect the curing process, so you may need to do multiple layers.

Ease of Demoulding

Some moulds may be easier to remove your finished paperweight from than others. Look for moulds that are designed to be flexible and stretchable, making it simpler to demould without damaging your creation.

Personalisation

If you plan to personalise your paperweight with a nameplate or plaque, choose a mould that accommodates this. For example, some paperweights have a flat surface where a nameplate can be added, enhancing the customisation and making it a truly unique keepsake.

Crafting Experience

Your level of crafting experience may also influence your mould choice. If you're a beginner, opt for a simpler mould design and a smaller flower to ensure a successful first attempt. More complex mould shapes or larger flowers may be better suited to those with more advanced crafting skills.

Remember, the mould you choose will play a significant role in the overall appearance and functionality of your wedding flower paperweight, so take the time to consider your options and select the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Mixing and pouring resin

To mix and pour resin for a wedding flower paperweight, you will need to follow a few simple steps. Firstly, gather your supplies, including dried flowers from a wedding bouquet or another special occasion, a silicone mold, a silicone measuring cup, a jumbo popsicle stick or silicone stir stick, and rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle (optional).

Next, prepare your mold by spraying it with a mold release spray and allowing it to dry completely. Then, it's time to mix your resin. For this step, it is crucial to wear protective gear, such as nitrile gloves and eye protection. Some resins may also require a respirator. Follow the specific instructions for your resin regarding ratios, drying times, and curing times. Typically, you will need to mix equal parts of Part A and Part B of the resin in your measuring cup, stirring slowly and scraping down the sides and bottom of the cup. Continue mixing for about 3 minutes or until the mixture is clear. Let the resin sit for 5 to 10 minutes to allow any air bubbles to surface, and spritz with rubbing alcohol if needed to pop any remaining bubbles.

Now you are ready to add the resin to your mold. Pour the resin into the mold a little at a time, slowly swirling the flower around to coat the petals and remove any air pockets. Continue adding resin until the mold is about 2/3 full or according to your resin's casting depth instructions. To keep the flower in place, attach a clothespin to the stem and set it on top of the mold. Allow the resin to sit for the recommended layering time, typically a few hours.

For the final step, trim off the flower stem so that the whole flower will be encased in resin. Mix another batch of resin to fill the remaining 1/3 of the mold, and pour it into the mold until it is full. Leave the mold untouched for the recommended dry or demold time, which can vary from 8 to 12 hours or more. Once the resin is dry, carefully remove your preserved flower paperweight from the mold, being cautious of any sharp edges. If needed, you can sand down any rough edges after 24 hours or after a longer curing time.

Removing air bubbles from resin

To make a wedding flower paperweight, you'll need to dry flowers from a wedding bouquet, then carefully insert them into a silicone mould. You'll then need to mix and pour resin into the mould in two layers, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next.

Resin is notorious for trapping air bubbles, which can ruin your paperweight. Here are some tips to avoid this:

• Choose the right resin for your project. Some resins are better at holding their shape and avoiding bubbles.
• Cast your resin in a warm room. Resin needs a room temperature of 70-75°F to cure properly.
• Warm your resin before casting. Place the bottles in a plastic bag and sit this in a hot water bath for 5-10 minutes. Be careful not to overheat your resin.
• Be careful when mixing. Mix deliberately and slowly to avoid creating extra bubbles.
• Warm the space you're pouring the resin into. Temperature differences create surface tension, which traps bubbles.
• Decrease the surface tension by dusting powder on the surface of your mould before adding the resin.
• Roll a small amount of resin in your mould before filling it completely. This will help to break the surface tension and trap bubbles.
• For intricate moulds, demould the resin several times during pouring to let bubbles escape from grooves.
• Dip inclusions in resin before putting them into your mould. This will break the surface tension.
• Use a heat gun, a small flame, or rubbing alcohol to pop any bubbles that do form.

Caring for your paperweight

Your wedding flower paperweight is crafted to last forever. However, to maintain its beauty, there are a few care instructions you should follow:

• Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the colours to fade, and heat can affect the shape and structure of the paperweight.
• Clean the paperweight with a soft cloth. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning agents, as these may damage the surface.
• Avoid scratches by handling the paperweight with care. Scratches can affect the clarity and beauty of the piece.
• Do not expose the paperweight to intense light sources for extended periods. While a little natural light or ambient lighting is fine, intense light can cause discolouration over time.
• If your paperweight is made of glass, ensure it is stored in a secure location where it is not at risk of being knocked over or broken.
• If your paperweight is made of resin, be aware that it may be more sensitive to heat. Avoid placing it near heat sources or in direct sunlight, as this could cause the resin to soften or become misshapen.
• If your paperweight contains dried flowers, ensure they are kept away from moisture. Moisture can cause the flowers to deteriorate or develop mould.
• Handle the paperweight with clean hands to avoid leaving fingerprints or smudges on the surface.
• If your paperweight has intricate details or engravings, use a magnifying glass to appreciate the fine craftsmanship and to check for any dust or dirt that may have accumulated in small crevices.
• If storing your paperweight for extended periods, wrap it in a soft cloth or tissue paper and place it in a box to protect it from dust and scratches.

Frequently asked questions