Resin Preserved Rose (Reverence)

Materials:

Fake rose: $1.49/ Hobby Lobby

Round jar with cork lid: $2.99/ Hobby Lobby

Mixing cup set: $9.99/ Hobby Lobby

Epoxy Resin Crystal Clear Kit: $13.99/ Amazon

Tools:

Wire Cutters

The Crafting Experience:

        Having worked with resin before, I felt a bit more confident this time around—perhaps more than I should have. Instead of using a small mold, I decided to embark on a preservation project. I began by using wire cutters to detach a fake rose bud from its stem, placing it delicately in the center of a small jar.

        Next, I mixed the resin epoxy with the hardener in a mixing cup, stirring with a popsicle stick to eliminate any large bubbles. Carefully, I poured the mixture over the rose bud. Despite my best efforts, I spilled some resin over the lip of the jar, but I found that using baking parchment paper made it easier to clean up the mess.

        After pouring, I patiently waited 24 hours for the resin to set. In retrospect, I wish I had chosen a slightly larger jar to enhance the visibility of the rose and poured more resin over it. I’m concerned that the limited amount of resin may have prevented the flower from settling nicely at the bottom of the jar.

        Alternatively, I could have approached the pouring in two stages. First, I would fill the jar partially, allowing it to dry with the rose nestled at the bottom. Once the initial layer had set and could securely hold the rose in place, I would then complete the filling process.

        Overall, this was an enjoyable project that has the potential to serve as a charming decoration or paperweight. With a few adjustments, I believe it could truly shine.