Earrings with fresh flowers inside. MK Earrings with epoxy resin, part 1. Decorating crafts with dried plants

Designers and needlewomen have learned to preserve whole worlds frozen in glass. In fact, all these shells, tiny buds, leaves and insects are forever frozen not in glass or amber, but in a simple and accessible to everyone epoxy resin. And you don't need to have a laboratory or a separate room to create one yourself. Today we will learn how to create epoxy resin with our own hands, and then make your own masterpiece with it.

Benefits of epoxy and how it differs from epoxy adhesive

Despite the fact that the name contains the word "resin", you will not find natural ingredients in its composition, because it is a completely synthetic product created in laboratories for many areas - from construction to handicraft.

Epoxy resin Is a mixture of two components: the hardener and the resin itself. Depending on the ratio of the parts of the hardener and the resin included in it, it can be thick, liquid or even dense. Therefore, it is very important to follow the instructions on the labels when mixing epoxy at home.

Properties of epoxy

Epoxy resin is great for making jewelry, decorative items and even covering large surfaces. It has the following properties:

• it is very durable
• not subject to abrasive wear,
• transparent,
• well waterproofed,
• absolutely non-toxic after curing.

Do not forget that on store shelves you can also find epoxy glue, which is completely unsuitable for us. To begin with, the glue itself is a resin derivative. It contains not only epoxy resin, but also a solvent, plasticizer, hardener and filler. Therefore, it is also durable, not subject to wear and tear and holds the parts to be glued tightly.

Differences between resin and glue

There are significant differences between resin and glue, which reveal disadvantages that are unacceptable for our purposes:

1. The glue has a specific cure time that cannot be controlled, while the cure of the resin can be accelerated.
2. The resin retains its transparency for a long time, while the glue begins to turn yellow rather quickly.
3. Epoxy is less elastic and hardens faster, while resin is more pliable and allows you to work with it more accurately.
4. Glue can only be used to join parts, while resin is suitable for making beads and other shapes of a given shape.
5. Depending on the proportion used when mixing resin and hardener, we can get the right consistency that suits our needs, the glue is sold as a ready-made mixture.

Resin safety rules

In order not to be harmed by the vapors that are formed when the hardener and resin are mixed (the polymerization process entails significant allocation heat), some safety rules must be observed.

1. Arm yourself with gloves.
2. Wear a face shield or respirator to avoid hurting yourself.
3. Ventilate the room while working.
4. Warn household members not to enter the room while you are busy, or be sure to wear a mask.
5. Before you start, organize your workplace so as not to be distracted afterwards.

If you do not have a special surface for work, you can use a film or a simple file so as not to worry about the table and what may happen to it during work.

How to make DIY epoxy

After reading the instructions, having prepared all the materials and the workplace, as well as following safety precautions, you can start creating an epoxy resin for your ideas.

So, to create an epoxy resin with our own hands, we need:

• resin and hardener,
• disposable syringes or measuring cups,
• stirring stick (toothpick, skewer or other piece of wood suitable for the length).

Carefully read the instructions for the components of the epoxy resin

First, mix the ingredients in one small container.

It is necessary to mix the components while observing the temperature regime not exceeding + 25 ° C.

It is most convenient to measure the required amount of resin and hardener with disposable syringes, so you will know the exact proportion and will not lose a drop when pouring them into a common vessel. Or use measuring cups, considering that from now on, they cannot be used for anything else.

Do not try to make stocks, as the mixture polymerizes and becomes unusable for further use.

Gently mix the resulting composition in a circle to reduce the likelihood of bubbles appearing, because they can spoil appearance epoxy crafts.

If the bubbles cannot be avoided, then they can be dealt with. To do this, you first need to let the mixture settle, and then warm it up. The bubbles will surely rise to the surface, which will allow us to carefully remove them. After that, the mixture can be used for your ideas.

Post hardening resin processing

After the resin has set, it may be necessary to process it as the composition may appear cloudy or uneven. Thanks to the elasticity of the composition, we can bring it to mind, and not be disappointed to throw it into the trash can, believing that nothing came of it.

The resin became cloudy after solidification

For grinding the product, sandpaper, or even a nail polish router, is suitable.

Since there will be a lot of dust during grinding, it is worth wearing a respirator, and it is best to moisten the sandpaper with water.

In this workshop from DreamWorkshop you will find step by step photos resin making process and some great tips on how to make cured resin clear and smooth with the simplest tools.

DIY epoxy crafts

So, we learned how to get epoxy on our own, talked about precautions and organization of the workplace. It's time to try your hand further. After all, creating crafts from epoxy resin with your own hands is not as difficult as it might seem at first glance.

For starters, it is worth noting that a material such as epoxy is quite versatile and can be used in needlework in different ways. From it, both individual jewelry and accessories are created, which are complemented by works made in other techniques. It is great for figurines, cabochons and even stained glass windows.

Crafts making with molds - molds

The most common form of resin use is to fill silicone molds with it. The resulting blanks can be further used as pendants, beads, pendants on or, key rings, etc. The variety of molds allows you to create even rings and bracelets from epoxy resin.

Such molds should be made of high-quality platinum silicone, which will be resistant to the poured solution and will make it easy to remove the frozen product from it.

Benefits of Moldova

The advantages of such casting forms are precisely that:

• currently they can be bought at any craft store
• they are plastic
• do not react with resin
• do not stick to it

What decor to use when creating crafts

Molds are great for pouring dried flowers, foliage, moss or shells into them - any volumetric element. To do this, you only need epoxy resin, a suitable silicone mold, and pre-prepared decorative elements.

Be sure to pay attention to preparation! Leaves, flowers and buds must be carefully dried so that over time they do not turn black, spoiling the finished product with their appearance. Shells, crystals and stones are best degreased with alcohol or solvent, and then dried too.

You can add not only dense decorative elements to the resin, but also leaf, shine and even stained glass paint, but a little (so as not to spoil the ratio of the main components and not to violate the given consistency).

Epoxy crafts can be decorated with plants ...

... sparkles ...

With this method of filling, decorative elements are most often unevenly distributed over the shape of the product. This is clearly seen in the example with the bracelet:

In the case when the decorative elements are small, heavy and / or you just want to place them in the center of the form, it is first recommended to fill the mold with resin, and then immerse the necessary decor in it - leaves, small shells, dried berries - whatever your heart desires!

Method 2.When the resin has settled, pour it into the mold in a thin stream, distribute it evenly over the entire mold, and then immerse the selected decorative elements in it, helping yourself with a toothpick.

If you are limited in time or are afraid of bubbles appearing, you can send the mold to the oven, preheated to 80 ° C (off and ventilated) for 15-20 minutes. After that, let the workpiece stand in the mold for at least 24 hours so as not to damage the resin surface. Carefully remove the bracelet, sand it from the top side and polish it for better safety.

To get started, prepare the clay - roll or twist the strips of the desired length using a paste machine, rolling pin or extruder. After that, wrap the resulting blank into the shape you like to make a frame, and send it to the oven, following the instructions indicated on the clay pack.

When the frame for your future jewelry has cooled down, free it from the mold and you can start pouring it with epoxy resin.

In more detail with the technology of making frames from polymer clay can be found in the master class of the author Rusalina.

Method 2: wire frame

If you are familiar with the basics of the Wire Wrap technique, then wire will come to your aid, which can be twisted into any frame or base to surprise those around you with your author's vision of jewelry.

Method 3: working with wood

Working with homemade molds allows you to go beyond the frames invented by hardware manufacturers. But still, such a combination of techniques requires more perseverance, accuracy and time, because now you yourself create frames and frames, which is a laborious, but at the same time very interesting process.

Natural wood is natural ...

…the beauty…

…and style

However, such products are not so easy to make, moreover, they require a whole arsenal of special tools, since the tree itself needs to be fully processed and cleaned so that the result does not disappoint.

But if difficulties and painstaking work are your passion, and the house already has tools for woodworking, then be sure to try yourself in the unique technique of creating crafts from epoxy resin different sizes and destination.

Is jewelry all that epoxy can do?

And yet, despite the fact that these days most often we find epoxy only as decoration, it continues to be popular in other directions as well. So it is used to fill the handles of knives, to decorate flash drives, key rings and even pens.

AND experienced craftsmen went even further by using epoxy to fill large surfaces. Tables with an incredible imitation of water in the middle or a simple and even surface, from under which an original image protrudes, more resistant to fading, is a reality created by those who like to challenge their talent.

Wooden table top with transparent epoxy resin insert

The table top is completely filled with epoxy resin

Those who remain faithful to small forms also found their own author's style: pocket mirrors and even articulated dolls! It turns out that resin can realize any of our ideas.

As you can see, epoxy is capable of a lot and is limited only by the imagination of those who are seriously interested in working with it. Try it and you will go from your first cabochons and beads to masterpieces worthy of the world's museums of epoxy crafts!

List of everything you need:

• Epoxy resin, two-component
• Two syringes without a needle (sold at any pharmacy)
• Container for mixing resin and hardener (plastic cup)
• Stick for this very mixing (wooden)
• Ceramic tiles or cardboard (generally any flat hard surface, preferably on a flat table)
• Scotch tape (wide one-sided)
• Accessories for jewelry (connectors, ear wires, connecting rings, bases)
• Mini drill (sold in almost any construction site, take the cheapest one, I personally use DREMEL 300)
• A set of bits for her (small drill and emery head for turning)
• Good mood for yourself;) Well, gloves with a respirator would be nice

Advice: Before purchasing, make sure you have a suitable work area. If you live in a single room with your grandmother and mother, you will have to wait a bit with the manufacture of resin jewelry. At least you need separate roomwhere you can inhale harmful resin vapors (if you don't take care of ventilation) in splendid isolation.

This work is dirty, noisy and generally does not contribute to health, but a few simple manipulations will allow you to reduce negative influences creativity to a minimum.

Safety precautions when working with epoxy resin:

• if you are not a toxic addict, open at least the window
• always keep a rag close at hand - believe me, it is much easier to wipe the resin off than later chipping it off the linoleum
• don't want a thrill? Then remove all carpets in sight
• have pity on your neighbors in the living space, do not grind jewelry while they are at home. Wear a respirator during this action

By the way about the leaves

Leaves (petals, flowers) must be well dried. This is not a quick case (4 weeks), so prepare them in advance. I put fresh petals into folded white paper, then into a book (this is to prevent letters from being printed on the flowers). The thicker the book, the better (old Soviet textbooks are great). You can use magnetic photo albums to store dried leaves.

If you decide to work with buds (for pouring into balls) you will need a dark, dry space, such as a closet. Thread the needle, tighten the knot thicker at the end of the thread and pass the needle through the legs of the buds (it is for this operation that these very legs should be left). We tie the resulting garland to two hangers and hide it in the closet. Four weeks and the material is ready.

It should be borne in mind that many petals visually change during work, and completely cease to resemble what you plucked in the garden. Some shrink to something awkward, some turn black or completely discolored. And if you don't feel sorry for the stupid chamomile, then the ruined expensive hydrangea flowers will definitely make you sad.

Fittings

The lion's share of the pleasure of working with jewelry is precisely the choice of accessories. It's simple: the more expensive it is, the better the quality. In the entire process of creating jewelry, you can save money, but not on accessories, this is exactly the case when a miser pays twice. Not only do the fasteners made in China break regularly, but they also look frankly shabby and, most likely, your hand will not rise to stick something like that on your hard-fostered leaf.

Resin preparation

Well, all preparations are complete, we can begin. First, read the instructions for your resin - mixing ratios vary from brand to brand. I personally use Crystal resin, 4 ml resin per 1.2 ml diluent.

We collect both the resin and the hardener with syringes without needles, naturally different. After using them, it is better to throw them away, they cost a penny. It is better to gently lower the hardener down the side of the cup so that it does not splash.

After that we start mixing. There is nothing phenomenal here: you can even interfere with your finger for 3-4 minutes. Do not be confused by the abundance of bubbles in the resin, let it settle and they will go away.

Stir the resin periodically. The ready-to-use mixture should have a honey-like consistency. It is difficult to explain on your fingers exactly how much to mix it, it naturally depends on the number of prepared petals, their size and, remarkably, the density of the resin. Fresh instantly spreads and it turns out that you have ground the tray itself more than the petals. So it's important to catch the moment here.

While the resin is settling, prepare your work area. Remove the table, take out the tray and flowers. It is desirable to do wet cleaning, for there is nothing more offensive than a potentially beautiful piece of jewelry covered in dust.

Preparing the tray

Requires a flat table, which is not a pity to spill, and a tray. The key point here is the choice of coverage, which should have a number of properties, such as:

• cheap
• affordable
• should not stick to resin
• must be glossy (matte surface makes the resin matte and cured)

A store-bought plastic bag immediately comes to mind, but to our deep regret it does not satisfy point 3 and sticks tightly. At one time I used food bags for baking, but they periodically failed and ruined entire trays of jewelry.

Advice: Tape the tray with duct tape and forget about sticking jewelry forever.

Fill

So, the resin has thickened, the petals are laid out on a surface covered with adhesive tape, we begin to create. We take our battle stick, dip the tip in resin and apply a drop to the petal.

In principle, you can smear it on it, holding the leaf with your finger (in latex gloves, so that there are no greasy marks left), but it spreads well itself. This is where you check how flat your table is. After covering all the prepared petals with the first layer of resin, we cover our miracle tray with a lid and leave it all for 24 hours. Then we apply another layer of resin (so far both layers are on the front part).

After a day, turn the petals over and apply the last layer, but already on the backs of our products.

Turning

Now these shapeless epoxy blots with petals inside need to be processed.

It's time to uncover our mini drill. You attach an emery tool to it and grind the jewelry (with a shudder I remember how I sharpened them by hand with a nail file). Keep the edge of the product perpendicular to the drill. After turning, you can varnish the edges of the products or make another fill.

If the resulting jewelry suits you, make holes for attaching the rings. We make holes with the same drill, but with a drill (diameter 0.5 mm).

In general, we did the most difficult work, now all that remains is to attach the fittings. We pass a ring into the drilled hole, and a hook into it. Our real flower petal earrings are ready!

Rules for storing and caring for flower jewelry

1. Jewelry coated with jewelry resin should not be wiped with alcohol or any other solvent, as this may damage the glossy surface. Epoxy is not chemically friendly at all, so keep it away from detergents, air fresheners, etc.
2. Wear jewelry after applying decorative cosmetics, perfumes, deodorants. Do not expose glossy surfaces to acetone. It is better to wash off nail polish without rings, since acetone is a volatile substance, and it is not so far from a nail to a ring with a leaf.
3. Do not wear jewelry while playing sports or go to bed.
4. Fasten the brooches to your clothes before putting them on (in this case, be sure that the pin is well fastened).
5. Cured epoxy resin itself is very strong, but with the proper degree of diligence, anything can be broken, and in this case it is no exception, store products in boxes.
6. Do not leave them in the open sun for a long time.

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One of the largest fashion trends in the fashion and beauty industry is the creation of hand-made jewelry. Therefore, I bring to your attention a trendy technique for creating original jewelry made of epoxy resin.

To create epoxy jewelry you will need:

Silicone molds (molds),

Various natural materials (dried flowers, shells, etc.),

Epoxy resin,

- a container for stirring, toothpicks, disposable gloves.

So, what is epoxy resin? It is a product that consists of two components: the resin itself and the hardener. When they are mixed, curing of the material is obtained with its subsequent polymerization. The hardener is a significant component in the working mixture, therefore it is added in 1: 1 in relation to the resin and more (depending on the type of resin). After hardening, epoxy resin turns into a transparent and very hard plastic, externally imitating plexiglass or even real glass, only shatterproof.

Epoxy resin has high strength (much higher than that of conventional glue), it resists wear better, and its ability to take the desired shape during polymerization even at low temperatures is what is required when making jewelry at home.

Dried flowers, pebbles, shells, beads are original decorwhich is used in epoxy ornaments. These natural materials add variety and color range decoration.

Workshop on making an epoxy bracelet

And now I bring to your attention a simple master class on making an epoxy bracelet from the needlewoman Catherine, known under the nickname Devona Sun Design.

Materials:

Bracelet mold (available at craft stores or online retailers that have epoxy in their assortment)

Disposable resin mixing cup

Mixing stick

Dry leaves

Toothpick, scissors

So, first, wash and dry the silicone mold (mold). Mix the resin with the hardener (in this case, in a 1: 3 ratio, but each manufacturer has its own proportions, so you need to carefully read the instructions for the resin). Stir well until smooth and set aside to release bubbles.

Prepare dry leaves by cutting off any excess with scissors so they do not peek out of the mold.

After 10 minutes, when the resin has settled, pour it into the mold. The more accurately you pour the resin into the mold, the less you will need to grind the finished product later.

Then use a toothpick to place the leaves in the resin. Spread them out gently. In order for the remaining bubbles to come out of the resin and for a faster solidification for 10-15 minutes, put the mold with the bracelet in the oven, heated to 80 degrees and turned off. Then you should remove the mold from the oven and leave it to harden for a day. When the bracelet is completely cured, gently remove it from the mold.

The sharp edges of the bracelet should be sanded with fine sandpaper. Then the bracelet needs to be opened with varnish (any acrylic will do). The bracelet is ready!

Bracelets made using the same technique.

In addition to natural materials, you can use photographs

and other materials.

Master class on making pendants, rings and earrings with rosebuds from epoxy resin

Epoxy resin can be used to make not only bracelets, but anything, any unique jewelry. I offer you a master class on making pendants, rings and earrings with rosebuds from epoxy resin from the wonderful craftswoman Rusalina.

Materials:

Silicone forms

Two-component epoxy resin (with hardener)

Dried rosebuds

Metal fittings

Hot glue gun

Prepare silicone molds: wash with soap and dry well. Rose buds should be taken with a color transition or interspersed - they will not change color after complete drying. Dry them with the heads down.

The epoxy resin must be diluted with the hardener according to the instructions using a wooden stick to a uniform transparent consistency. To avoid bubbles in the resin, you need to put it in an oven preheated to 60 degrees for 5 minutes.

Then, with a syringe or using a wooden stick, fill the silicone molds with resin halfway, place the rosebuds in them with the head down and add the remaining resin to the brim.

Then you need to leave the mold until completely dry in a warm, dry place for a period of 24 to 72 hours (depending on the depth of the mold).

After complete drying, you can remove the product from the mold, it is easiest to do this under running water... The edges of the product, where there was an open space that was not hidden in the mold, must be sanded with sandpaper. Then take the hardware you want and use a hot glue gun to glue the epoxy piece to it.

Workshop on making epoxy resin jewelry with dandelions

And one more interesting master class from the craftswoman Anastasia Parfyonova known under the nickname NikaLiza. This time, there will be dandelion parachutes in the epoxy resin. Dandelions in jewelry evoke associations with lightness and serenity.

Materials:

Two-component epoxy resin (with hardener)

Silicone molds (molds)

Dandelion parachutes

Disposable gloves, cups, syringes, mixing stick

First you need to wash and dry the molds. Then, wearing gloves, pour the resin and hardener into the cups. After measuring the required amount of resin and hardener with syringes, pour them into another glass and mix together with a wooden stick. You need to knead thoroughly, in a circular motion, so that all the air comes out - it will take about 10 minutes. After that, you should leave the epoxy for half an hour.

Then put the dandelion in the mold and carefully pour the resin over it. For complete solidification, we wait exactly one day and take the product out of the mold. If necessary, sand it a little with fine emery paper.

Other similar decorations can be made with sea pebbles, shells, glass, gold leaf, etc. And if you add a little stained glass paint to the resin, you can get products of various colors.

Jewelry made using the same technique.

Flowers, shells and insects in transparent capsules are eye-catching, regardless of whether we like such bracelets, rings, pendants and souvenirs. But few people think that it is possible to make such a miracle with your own hands, having devoted some time to mastering the technology of the phased production of epoxy resin jewelry.

This liquid synthetic polymer, subject to a certain temperature regime for thickening and hardening, successfully imitates glass, providing almost unlimited freedom in the choice of forms and filling.

How to choose an epoxy for potting

The assortment of epoxy is quite wide, so the first tip for beginners is to read the product description to find it according to its purpose.

The optimal choice is a special resin paired with a hardener for casting and glazing. Typically, such a product has additional properties of increased transparency, UV resistance, and the like.

The second selection criterion is the manufacturer's authority, which is reflected primarily in the price. To begin with, you need a small volume, so you shouldn't skimp and it will even be logical to purchase several different sets of epoxy resin at once for testing a master class on jewelry.

Workplace and safety rules

Before you make your first attempt at creating an epoxy jewelry, you need to choose the right workplace and read the instructions for safe handling of polymers:

• It is necessary to work with the polymer composition in a well-ventilated room, preferably in a workshop, fenced off from the residential part of the house.
• Avoid getting the resin on the skin and mucous membranes, therefore gloves, a medical mask and safety glasses should be used.
• The finished product is polished in a respirator.
• If the resin gets on your skin, you should immediately rinse it under running water. If the solution gets on objects, it must be immediately removed with a dry cloth.

It should also be taken into account that in the manufacturing process and during the use of finished products, contact with food must be avoided.

Epoxy decoration can be made both by pouring and glazing, but in both cases, it is important to have a perfectly flat work surface.

Containers and tools

To mix the solution, you need a heat-resistant plastic container and a stick, which are usually included with the kit. For accurate work with the polymer, disposable syringes are used, for the correction of fillers (flowers, insects, stones, etc.), tweezers are needed.

To fill, you need to stock up on silicone molds. An alternative method is to apply the thickened mixture directly to the dried filler. In this case, two layers are made on the front side, and one on the back.

The filler is placed on a tray with a glossy surface that prevents sticking. This procedure will take more time: for each layer to dry, you need to wait 24 hours.

Uneven edges and roughness are removed with sandpaper or with a sander.

In the process of mastering the process of working with epoxy resin, you can also master the technique of creating interesting silicone molds with your own hands for original jewelry and souvenirs.

Preparation of fillers

Before you make your own model, you should familiarize yourself with the photos of similar epoxy jewelry with various fillers. For plant theme it is necessary to dry the fillers in advance, 3-4 weeks before starting work.

The leaves can be placed under the press in a book, as for a school herbarium. Bulky vegetable fillers, such as buds or berries, are strung on a string and air-dried.

Almost any detail of decorative value can be used as a filler - shells, tree bark, rhinestones. The epoxy capsule can accommodate images printed on matte photo paper. For an additional effect, special dyes are used.

Note!

Stages of work

Preparation of the mixture. At this stage, careful observance of the proportions recommended by the manufacturer is important. Mixing with the hardener is carried out for 10 minutes, with uniform and smooth circular motions.

Setting process. For a chemical reaction with a hardener, it takes from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the parameters stated in the product instructions. After mixing, bubbles form in the solution, which should disappear during the chemical reaction.

Pouring into molds or creating layers on the aggregate should be done exactly according to the timer and as quickly as possible.

The hardening process is complete after 24 hours. In this case, the workpiece must be located in a stable and dust-free place.

Note!

Even the most best ideas epoxy resin jewelry can remain in dreams without careful adherence to technological subtleties and using low-quality material.

Therefore, it will be more correct to first master the process of creating a one-piece and transparent capsule, and then start experimenting with fillers and combining epoxy parts with metal accessories for jewelry.

Photo of epoxy jewelry

Note!

Epoxy resin is highly demanded by jewelers. This material is great for making brooches and bracelets, pendants and pendants. The transparent plastic mass is ideal for handmade, and everyone can learn how to make jewelry. Jewelry resin in the finished, frozen form imitates glass, crystals, precious stones, looks elegant and original.

Description of jewelry resin

Epoxy resin - modern polymer material, actively used for construction, installation works, as well as castings of haberdashery, jewelry, household products. Epoxy is very popular in needlework, it allows you to create real masterpieces with your own hands.

In appearance, jewelry epoxy resin is a transparent liquid with a rather thick consistency. It is a two-component product consisting of the actual resin and the hardener. The latter is the most important component that triggers the polymerization (curing) reaction. Without a hardener, the resin remains fluid, only this substance gives it certain properties. Here are the main ones:

• resistance to ultraviolet radiation, moisture, household chemicals;
• strength, lack of reaction to shocks, vibration;
• heat resistance.

Before polymerization begins, various dry fillers can be added to the mass - for example, dyes, modifiers, plasticizers, wood chips or cork. They change the properties of the glaze in the right direction. The hardener is added strictly in a certain proportion with the resin. Usually the ratio is 10: 1 or 8: 1, but may vary depending on the specific brand.

You can buy transparent jewelry resin in any store of building materials, goods for repairs, creativity and handicrafts. It is quite budgetary in cost, easy to use, and the end result is always pleasing. Domestic brands are cheaper, while they have excellent quality. Foreign jewelry resins are most often equipped with additional accessories - gloves, cups, mixing sticks. Sometimes the kit includes molds - molds for pouring epoxy. Better buy quality material, otherwise it may turn yellow and dim over time.

Precautionary measures

When working with resin, safety precautions should be strictly followed. You need to immediately buy personal protective equipment:

• respirator;
• gloves;
• apron;
• protective glasses.

Do not work in an unventilated room. If there is not sufficient ventilation in it, you will have to breathe fumes, which is harmful to the body. Vapors can cause allergic reactions, irritation airways... The pronounced chemical odor is unpleasant, although some expensive brands of epoxy do not smell so bad. After curing, the epoxy resin is completely safe, various rings and brooches can be given even to children.

If resin or hardener comes in contact with the skin, wash the area immediately with soap and then plenty of warm water. Do not use epoxy on products in contact with food. When polishing, you also need to wear a respirator - this way, the smallest particles of the substance will not enter the respiratory system.

Working with jewelry resin

Jewelry is the most popular use for epoxy among needlewomen. In order to make jewelry, you need to purchase the appropriate molds. This is the name of the casting molds, which are made of silicone or other materials. They are easy to use, the finished product can be easily removed from them.

When working with resin, you must strictly observe temperature regime... The polymerization reaction proceeds with the release of heat, while the epoxy is heated to +60 degrees. When overheated, it irrevocably deteriorates.

Workplace preparation

To work with jewelry resin, you will need a flat place - a small table, a tray. The base coat should be glossy, not sticking to the resin. The use of plastic bags is inconvenient, the drops of resin stick to them tightly. It is best to cover the tray with paper tape with a shiny surface. Can also be put on a table ceramic tiles, sheet of cardboard.

Before work, it is important to prepare all the necessary tools, accessories, decor. From the main materials you will need resin and hardener (usually included). Also useful:

• two syringes (no needles needed);
• utensils for mixing resin (you can take a disposable cup);
• wooden stick for mixing the mass;
• mini drill;
• attachments for mini-drills for grinding, polishing, drill attachment, turning head;
• individual protection means;
• sieve;
• vegetable oil or petroleum jelly;
• tweezers.

Accessories are selected depending on the type of jewelry being made. These can be bases, connecting rings, ear wires, connectors, frames. It is impossible to save on accessories, otherwise the fasteners and fasteners will quickly deteriorate. The decor for the products is chosen independently. These items can be:

• cones;
• leaves;
• flowers;
• shells;
• dried flowers;
• rhinestones;
• beads;
• glitters;
• sequins.

Natural material - plants, flowers - is pre-dried between the pages of the book. It must be prepared in advance, because the drying process can take up to a month. The buds are put on a thread through the legs using a sewing needle. The resulting "garland" is hung in a dark cabinet, it dries for 3-4 weeks.

Resin preparation

Before starting work, it is important to read the instructions for the jewelry resin. It will indicate what temperature in the room needs to be maintained, what are the proportions of resin and hardener. Usually the manufacturer advises to work at + 25 ... + 30 degrees and low humidity - up to 55%.

Since small amounts of resin are used to make jewelry, there will be no strong heating during polymerization. Therefore, it is recommended to warm up the resins of many brands a little - this is done by placing the tube in hot water (60 degrees). After 5-10 minutes, the resin is taken out of the water and mixed with the hardener.

Operating procedure:

• collect epoxy and hardener with different syringes without needles;
• pour the required amount of resin into a disposable cup;
• add the hardener in small portions in the specified ratio, immediately stirring the mass thoroughly;
• stir the product for 3 minutes, but not too vigorously - this will cause air bubbles.

Bubbles are a major challenge for beginners. To preserve the transparency of the glaze, let the mixed resin stand for 10 minutes. The bubbles will come to the surface and can be pierced with a needle. The finished mass should have the consistency of thick honey.

If required, fillers are added to the product at this stage. Everything is done quickly, until the resin has entered the polymerization stage. Usually add wood shavings, sawdust, chips, cork. It should be noted that they immediately go down, so they must be distributed carefully.

The total weight of the filler should not exceed 50%. The more foreign substances there are in the jewelry epoxy, the more fragile the finished product will be. It is better to add a little plasticizer to it (a couple of drops of castor oil are good).

Fill

To start the resin pouring process, prepare a fine strainer. This method is not suitable if there are fillers in the mass. The form is preliminarily greased with petroleum jelly, parquet mastic. This is only required for molds homemade from scrap materials. Molds made of silicone, plexiglass do not need lubrication, the finished product can be easily removed from them.

Next, the epoxy resin is poured into the mold, its depth should not be more than 30 mm. In the first 60-120 minutes, the composition will remain liquid, but will gradually begin to thicken. If you need to introduce decor, this is done with tweezers. It is important not to pour too thick a layer, otherwise the glaze will not be able to harden to the end. If the decor is large, then pour in ½ of the mixture, lay the decoration, then add the remaining resin. The mold must be covered so that dust does not settle on the surface. Drying time of the product is 24 hours.

Polishing

The resulting resin products are needed. To do this, use a mini-drill with an emery nozzle. The jewelry is sharpened as needed, while the edges are held perpendicular to the drill. Then the edges can be varnished or the resin can be diluted again and brushed on the edges. After polishing, holes are drilled to secure the rings and fasteners. The drill diameter should not be more than 0.5 mm.

Master class on making jewelry from jewelry resin

How to make various jewelry, bijouterie? There are a number of subtleties in the manufacture of rings, earrings, brooches, pendants, they will be described below.

Making rings

A master class on creating rings should begin with the preparation of forms and accessories. You need to purchase resin, hardener and a standard set of additional materials, including glitters and other decorative elements.

The work is carried out as follows:

• water is poured into a container with a temperature of +60 degrees;
• lower the sealed tube of epoxy (it is important that not a drop gets inside), leave for 10 minutes;
• pick up resin and hardener, mix with epoxy in the right proportion;
• usually 3 ml of the finished mixture is enough for a ring;
• to remove bubbles, a glass with a well-mixed mass is once again placed in a container with hot water;
• again knead the mass right in a container with water until all stains, bubbles disappear;
• the remaining bubbles are blown out with a cocktail straw;
• pour resin into the mold, do it in 2-3 steps, in order to put the right amount of decor in each layer - powders, glitters, sparkles, dried flowers, needles;
• layer-by-layer pouring is done after 2-3 hours from the previous one, so each time a new portion of resin is introduced;
• leave the ring to freeze near the battery for a day;
• take the product out of the mold by hitting it from the back;
• sharp edges are sanded, you can do it with a nail file.

The ring made of wood and epoxy resin looks original. To do this, you can take sushi sticks or any scraps of wooden furniture, trim them. The pieces of wood are placed on the bottom of the mold, filled with ready-made resin. You can pre-paint the material with special pigments, they are introduced before applying the hardener.

DIY resin pendants

Artificial amber can be made from resin, very beautiful pendants are obtained. You can also make other crafts with the addition of paint of any shade, glitter or other decorative elements. Wire must be prepared for pendants. The usual one darkens over time, therefore, a material with a special coating is used. A soft, but not thin, 1.5 mm aluminum wire is suitable. To secure a chain or string, you need to roll up a wire ring and cut off its tail close to the junction.

The ring itself is glued onto a double-sided wide adhesive tape, which is glued with the second side to a flat surface (tile, cardboard). After the decor is laid out in the mold, they are filled with ready-made epoxy resin with a hardener, the epoxy is pre-allowed to stand for 20 minutes. Pour one layer into the "lenses" to create the bottom and fix the picture. Leave the product for 8 hours, then make another layer, then a third. A ring rolled from wire is carefully immersed in the latter. Final drying takes 24 hours. You can also drill a hole in the finished pendant and just insert a wire ring there, the effect will be the same.

Making earrings

The technology for making earrings can be even simpler; even special molds are not required. It is only important to buy high-quality resin and good hooks-clasps, as well as get dried flowers, twigs, any decor.

The work is as follows:

• prepare epoxy resin, knead it, leave for 2 hours to gain viscosity;
• draw stencils of an oval, round or other shape on paper;
• cover working area with an oilcloth or rinse and wipe dry, lay out the stencils, cover them on top with stationery multiforme;
• start pouring the thickened resin directly onto the multifor, gently spreading it over the stencil with a toothpick;
• the height of the workpiece should be no more than 1 cm;
• cover the blanks with domes from dust from above, leave for a day;
• after hardening, give the earrings the desired shape with a nail file;
• knead another portion of resin, stand for 2 hours;
• put decor on the blanks, drip a little resin, let it dry a little;
• then perform a few more layers with a brush, each should dry for 2 hours;
• at the end of the work, let the earrings dry for a day, then grind and drill holes for the hooks.

Resin brooches

To create brooches, you may additionally need acrylic dyes. After combining the resin and the hardener, let the mass brew for 2-3 hours, then pour it into special molds for brooches. Previously, the edges of the molds can be coated with a mixture of PVA and dyes, then the products will acquire original view... A composition of dried flowers looks beautiful inside the brooches. So that they do not float to the surface, they perform the first layer of pouring, allow it to dry for 2 hours, and then glue the decor using PVA. The products are finally dried for at least a day.

Homemade cabochons

Cabochons are understood as a method of processing stones, in which they acquire a smooth convex surface without edges. Cabochons are flat on one side and look like a lens on the other. The easiest way is to pour them into special forms, diluting the epoxy according to the instructions. The walls of the mold are coated with it with a thin layer, and after solidification, the workpiece is taken out. Now you can put any decor in it, then it is filled to the ground. After drying, grind the medallion to perfect smoothness.

If there is no time to wait for the jewelry to dry for a long time, the process can be accelerated. For this, the product is heated in an oven at temperatures up to + 50 ... + 60 degrees. Many craftsmen, if a drill is not available, insert a cord into the product while the decoration is still soft. This will help avoid drilling.

When pouring, be sure to ensure that the shape is absolutely smooth. In this case, you do not have to grind the jewelry for a long time. Do not wipe the finished product with alcohol, this will ruin the glossy surface. Careful handling will allow you to wear rings, earrings or pendants for a long time without any complaints.