Making Resin Coasters with Embedded Dried Flowers

There’s something magical about transforming delicate dried flowers into timeless pieces of art. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, making resin coasters is a creative and rewarding project that blends nature with modern craftsmanship. These handmade creations not only serve as functional home decor but also make thoughtful, personalized gifts.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the entire process of making beautiful resin coasters embedded with dried flowers. From choosing the right materials to arranging your botanicals with care, you’ll learn everything you need to know to create stunning results. Along the way, we’ll share tips, tricks, and design ideas to help you personalize your work and avoid common mistakes.

By the end of this tutorial, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to start your own resin crafting journey — one coaster at a time.

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What You’ll Need: Materials and Tools

Before diving into your first pour, gather all the essential supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Epoxy resin & hardener – Choose a clear casting resin suitable for small projects.
• Silicone coaster molds – Flexible molds in various shapes (round, square, hexagon).
• Dried flowers – Pressed or air-dried blossoms like lavender, baby’s breath, or pansies.
• Mixing cups and stir sticks – Disposable tools to ensure accurate mixing.
• Gloves and safety goggles – To protect your skin and eyes from resin.
• Heat gun or torch – For removing bubbles in the resin.
• Sandpaper (400–1000 grit) – For smoothing edges after demolding.
• Optional sealant – Adds a glossy finish or UV protection.

You can find most of these items at craft stores or online marketplaces like Amazon or Etsy. Always check product reviews and instructions before purchasing.

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Choosing and Preparing Your Dried Flowers

Not all flowers are created equal when it comes to resin crafts. Thin, flat petals tend to hold up best during the curing process.

Best Flowers to Use:

• Lavender
• Baby’s breath
• Queen Anne’s lace
• Pansies
• Daisy petals
• Fern leaves

Drying Techniques:

• Air drying: Hang small bundles upside down in a dry, dark space.
• Pressing: Place between parchment paper and heavy books for 1–2 weeks.
• Silica gel: Speed up the process while preserving shape and color.
• Microwave flower press: A quick method using special kits designed for drying.

Once dried, store your flowers in an airtight container until ready to use. Handle them gently to prevent crumbling or breakage.

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Preparing the Mold and Workspace

A clean, organized workspace is key to successful resin pouring. Set up in a well-ventilated area with minimal dust.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Clean the mold with soapy water and dry thoroughly.
2. Apply mold release if working with new silicone molds (optional but recommended).
3. Organize tools within reach: gloves, resin bottles, stir sticks, heat gun.
4. Cover your surface with plastic sheeting or wax paper to catch spills.

Ideal room temperature should be around 70–80°F (21–27°C) with low humidity to ensure proper curing.

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Mixing and Pouring the Resin

Proper mixing is crucial for a strong, crystal-clear final product. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Step-by-Step Mixing Guide:

1. Measure equal parts resin and hardener by volume.
2. Pour both into a clean mixing cup.
3. Stir slowly and thoroughly for 2–3 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom.
4. Pour the mixture into a second cup and mix again for added accuracy.

Pouring Tips:

• Pour slowly in a zig-zag pattern to reduce bubbles.
• Use a heat gun or torch to pop any remaining bubbles on the surface.
• Let the first layer cure for about 12–24 hours before adding flowers.

This first pour acts as a base coat and ensures your flowers sit securely without touching the mold directly.

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Arranging and Embedding the Flowers

Now comes the fun part — placing your botanicals into the resin!

Design Tips:

• Start with larger flowers as focal points.
• Layer smaller ones around them for depth.
• Leave some negative space to let the resin shine.

Use tweezers or small forceps to place each piece precisely. Avoid overcrowding — too many flowers can cause shifting or floating.

Once arranged, carefully pour a second layer of resin over the top, covering the flowers completely. Again, remove any bubbles with a heat tool.

Let this layer cure fully according to the resin’s instructions — usually 24–72 hours.

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Finishing Touches and Polishing

After the resin has cured, it’s time to reveal your masterpiece.

Demolding Process:

• Gently flex the silicone mold to release the coasters.
• If they stick, place them in the freezer for 15–30 minutes to loosen.

Sanding and Buffing:

• Lightly sand the edges with 400-grit sandpaper to remove rough spots.
• Progress to higher grits (600, then 1000) for a smooth finish.
• Wipe away dust with a damp cloth.

For extra shine, apply a thin coat of resin gloss sealer or polish with a soft cloth and automotive polish.

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Design Ideas and Customization

Don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are a few themes to inspire your next batch:

• Seasonal sets : Spring pastels, autumn leaves, or holiday florals.
• Monochrome magic : Stick to one color palette for a minimalist look.
• Botanical layers : Add pressed leaves between resin layers for dimension.
• Metallic accents : Try gold leaf flakes or mica powder swirls.
• Personalized details : Add initials with alcohol ink or embed tiny charms.

Each coaster becomes a unique expression of your style — perfect for gifting or selling.

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Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting

Even experienced crafters run into issues. Here’s how to handle common problems:

Common Issues and Solutions:

• Sticky resin? Double-check mixing ratios or try extending cure time.
• Cloudy finish? Humidity or trapped moisture might be the culprit — ensure your workspace is dry.
• Bubbles won’t go away? Hold the torch closer to the surface or try tapping the mold gently on the table.
• Flowers float or shift? Make sure the base layer is partially cured before placing them.

Pro Tips:

• Work in batches to manage multiple pours easily.
• Label mixing cups to keep track of layers.
• Store leftover resin properly — in sealed containers away from sunlight.

With practice, your results will improve dramatically!

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Eco-Friendly Crafting Notes

Crafting with resin doesn’t have to harm the planet. Here are a few ways to make your hobby more sustainable:

• Source locally: Gather wildflowers or use blooms from your garden.
• Reuse materials: Silicone molds can be used dozens of times.
• Dispose responsibly: Never pour leftover resin down the drain. Follow local hazardous waste guidelines.
• Repurpose old projects: Turn broken pieces into jewelry or decorative accents.

Mindful crafting means enjoying your passion while protecting the environment.

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Gifting and Selling Your Resin Coasters

These handmade treasures make excellent gifts for friends, family, or even customers.

Packaging Ideas:

• Wrap coasters in kraft paper with twine and a handwritten note.
• Present in a small gift box lined with tissue paper.
• Include a short card explaining how to care for the resin.

If you’re thinking of selling:

• Check local regulations for selling handmade goods.
• Label products clearly with ingredients and usage instructions.
• Price fairly based on time, materials, and market demand.

Platforms like Etsy, Instagram, or local craft fairs are great places to showcase your creations.

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Conclusion

Making resin coasters with dried flowers is more than just a craft — it’s a way to preserve beauty, express creativity, and connect with nature. Whether you’re creating for yourself or others, each coaster tells a story and adds a personal touch to any space.

We hope this guide inspires you to try this delightful project. Remember, every artist starts somewhere — and every coaster is a step toward mastering your craft.

So grab your materials, choose your favorite flowers, and let your imagination flow. The world needs more handmade joy — and you’re now ready to bring some into yours.

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Got questions or want to share your finished coasters?
Drop a comment below or tag us on social media! We’d love to see your creations and hear about your resin adventures.