Rhiannon Hendricks
Wedding flowers are often highly sentimental and many couples wish to preserve them long after the big day. There are several ways to do this, including professional services, DIY methods, and resin preservation. Resin preservation involves trimming and drying flowers, selecting a mould, preparing the epoxy resin, arranging flowers within the resin layers, and allowing the resin to cure. This method can be costly, with supplies ranging from \$80 to a few hundred dollars, but it creates stunning, long-lasting decorative pieces.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost of resin | $80 |
| Cost of basic bouquet preservation | $250 |
| Cost of more involved projects | $500 |
| Cost of silica | $100 |
| Cost of resin | $200 |
| Cost of total supplies | A few hundred dollars |
| Safety precautions | Wear PPE, ensure high ventilation, keep children and pets away |
| Drying flowers | Silica gel, air dry |
| Preservation methods | Wax, epoxy resin |
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What You'll Learn
Trimming and drying flowers
Trimming and drying the flowers is an essential first step before casting them in resin. If the flowers aren’t completely dry, they can eventually rot in the resin mould, changing colour and looking awful. Your radiant reds and gorgeous greens will turn the colour of mud if you don’t dry them first.
Trim the stems of your bouquet, leaving a little bit of stem on them. This will help them stay upright in the container. The drying method you use will depend on what is available to you and the project you are doing.
One popular method is to use silica gel, a crystalline desiccant that’s easy to use and gives you excellent results. Place fresh flowers in a sealed container with silica gel desiccant for several days or up to a couple of weeks. This is the preferred method for colour and shape retention. The silica gel technique will give you gorgeous results but a flower dried using this method will reabsorb moisture pretty quickly, so get the flowers into the resin as soon as you’ve dusted off the last speck of gel.
Another method is to air-dry the flowers, allowing them to dry naturally in a vase or box. However, air-dried flowers may look more crumpled and not as smooth as desiccant-dried flowers.
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Choosing a preservation mould
Preserving wedding flowers in resin is a great way to keep your bouquet as a decorative memento. The preservation mould you choose will depend on the size and shape of your bouquet, as well as your personal preference for how you want the final product to look. Here are some things to consider when choosing a preservation mould:
First, decide on the size of the mould. If you are preserving a large bouquet or multiple bouquets, you will need a larger mould. It's important to measure the dimensions of your bouquet and choose a mould that is slightly larger to ensure all the flowers can fit comfortably.
Next, consider the shape of the mould. Silicone or HDPE moulds are a good option, as they come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can showcase your flowers beautifully. You can choose a mould that is simple and elegant, or more intricate and decorative, depending on your taste.
Another factor to keep in mind is the depth of the mould. If you want to create a thicker resin block, choose a mould with higher sides. This will allow you to pour more layers of resin and create a chunkier final product. If you prefer a thinner, more delicate look, a mould with lower sides will be suitable.
It's also important to ensure your mould is clean and dry before use. Any residual moisture or dust can affect the quality of the final product. Clean the mould with water or isopropyl alcohol, and make sure it is completely dry before pouring in the resin.
Finally, consider the cost of the mould. Basic bouquet preservation can start at around $250, but more intricate projects, such as those involving framing or creating resin trays and paperweights, can cost up to $500. If you are on a budget, you may want to choose a simpler mould and decoration option.
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Preparing the mould
Firstly, select a suitable mould for your project. You can choose from a variety of options, such as silicone or HDPE moulds, which are commonly used for flower preservation. Consider the size and shape that will best display your flowers. Measure the mould accurately to determine the amount of resin you will need.
Once you have chosen the right mould, it is essential to clean and dry it thoroughly. Use water or isopropyl alcohol with a paper towel to remove any dust or dried epoxy resin from the mould's surface. Ensure that the mould is completely dry before use.
If you are using a new mould, it may come with a release agent already applied. However, if it feels sticky or has been used before, you should apply a release agent to ensure that your resin project can be easily removed once it has cured. There are various release agents available, such as mould release spray, vegetable oil, or a thin film of soap and water mixture.
After preparing the mould, you can move on to mixing your resin. It is crucial to work in a well-ventilated area and wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with resin. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing and handling the resin safely.
Remember, taking the time to properly prepare your mould will ensure a smoother process and better results when preserving your wedding flowers in resin.
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Mixing the resin
First, select a well-ventilated workspace as resin can produce strong fumes. It is highly recommended to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) during this process, including a respirator. Ensure that children and pets are not present in the workspace.
Next, prepare your mould. Select a silicone or HDPE mould that showcases your flowers attractively. Measure the mould to determine the required amount of Liquid Cast Floral Preservation Epoxy Resin. Clean the mould thoroughly with water or isopropyl alcohol to remove any dust or residue, and ensure it is completely dry before proceeding.
Now, it's time to mix the resin. Combine one part of Liquid Cast Floral Preservation Epoxy Resin (Component A) with one part hardener (Component B). It is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific resin product you are using, as some casting resins may have different mixing ratios. Scrape the sides and bottom of the container during mixing to ensure a thorough blend. This step is essential to prevent unmixed resin from affecting your final project.
The resin mixture should be crystal clear and suitable for thick pours, which is ideal for flower preservation. Once you have achieved a homogeneous mixture, you are ready to proceed to the next step of pouring the resin into the mould. Remember to work quickly, as the resin will begin to cure and harden after mixing.
Always remember to handle resins with care and refer to the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines. With the right preparation and execution, you'll be on your way to creating a beautiful and long-lasting preservation of your wedding flowers.
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Removing air bubbles
Preserving wedding flowers in resin is a delicate process that requires careful attention to detail. One of the most common issues encountered during this process is the formation of air bubbles within the resin, which can ruin the aesthetic of the final product. Here are some detailed instructions to help you effectively remove air bubbles and create a flawless resin piece:
Temperature Control
Maintaining the right temperature is crucial for preventing and removing air bubbles. Keep your resin at room temperature before use, ideally between 75-85°F (24-30°C). If your resin feels cold, submerge the tightly capped bottles in a warm water bath to gently increase the temperature and reduce bubbles. On the other hand, if your resin gets too warm, it may thicken and become clumpy, leading to the formation of cold-induced bubbles that are challenging to remove.
Slow Mixing
When mixing the resin and hardener, avoid the temptation to rush the process. Instead of vigorously whisking the two components together, use a mixing stick with a folding motion. This slower approach allows the resin and hardener to combine gradually, reducing the chances of trapping air bubbles in the mixture.
Degassing
Degassing is a technique used to alter the viscosity of the resin and hardener mixture, encouraging the release of trapped air. Submerge both components in hot or warm water before use, causing any air bubbles to rise to the surface and pop. This method is particularly effective for removing air bubbles from dried epoxy resin.
Sanding
If you notice bubbles on the surface of your project, don't panic. Sand down the entire surface with coarse sandpaper (80-grit is recommended). This process creates a rough texture that helps the fresh resin layer adhere properly. After sanding, use a damp paper towel to wipe away all the sanding residue, ensuring a clean surface before applying the next layer of resin.
Torch or Heat Application
Applying direct heat is a fast and effective way to remove air bubbles. Use a propane torch or lighter to carefully apply heat to the resin, being cautious not to damage the surface. Alternatively, warming the resin before casting can also help prevent bubble formation.
Surface Tension Reduction
Breaking the surface tension of the resin can make it easier for bubbles to escape. You can achieve this by dusting the surface with mica powder, liquid resin dye, or a small amount of coloured baby powder. This technique reduces the space for bubbles to move around, making it easier to remove them.
Remember, preserving wedding flowers in resin requires patience and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can effectively remove air bubbles and create a seamless, bubble-free final product.
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Frequently asked questions
The first step is to trim the stems of your bouquet and ensure your flowers are completely dry. This is because moisture can cause them to rot and change colour within the resin.
The next step is to choose and measure your floral preservation mould. You can select a silicone or HDPE mould that best displays your flowers.
Once you have your mould, you should clean it with water or isopropyl alcohol and a paper towel to remove any dried epoxy resin or dust. Ensure it is clean and dry before use.
