In the heart of our Canadian studio, resin art unfolds as a symphony of patience and creativity, juxtaposed with the personal battles that color our lives deeply. Here, my husband valiantly confronts his mental disabilities—agoraphobia, anxiety, and depression—each day becoming another step in his courageous journey. And as for me, I maneuver through the intricacies of life and business while living with osteoporosis. These are not just conditions; they are the dragons we face, our fortitude tested, our resolve unyielding.
Amidst these challenges, we’ve learnt that arranging items in resin, mastering embedding techniques, and creating with resin are more than mere acts of artistry; they are affirmations of life. As Canadian resin artists, resilience isn’t just a physical pursuit—it’s a spiritual awakening. Together, in our shared sanctuary, we wield love and art against our dauntless foes. With every epoxy resin craft we create, we push back the shadows, letting art light the way and grant us strength.
Please, join us in our quest as we continue to forge unique beauties and share our world at www.devilndove.com.
Key Takeaways
- Resin art serves as a therapeutic and resilient form of expression amidst life’s challenges.
- Understanding and practicing the art of embedding in resin enhances both the craft and our own personal growth.
- Our shared experiences as Canadian resin artists illustrate the transformative power of love, art, and resilience.
- Osteoporosis and mental disabilities are part of our story, but they don’t define us—our art does.
- Supporting each other in our crafting journey builds a community that celebrates diversity and creativity.
Gathering Botanicals for Resin Art
The craft of botanical resin art is deeply intertwined with the act of connection—to both our Canadian heritage and the natural world. As artisans, we begin our creative process in the simplest and most joyful of ways: by stepping outside and sourcing local flora. Whether your home is graced with the grandeur of the Rockies or the lush valleys of the Maritimes, Canadian wildflowers and plants provide an endless palette for our artistic expressions.
Exploring Local Flora for Inspiration
There’s nothing quite like the inspiration gleaned from a leisurely stroll through the verdant landscapes that our Canadian environment offers. From the delicate whispers of Lilacs in the early summer to the bold strokes of Cherry Blossoms in the spring, our work is a tribute to the breathtaking variety of our local ecosystem. We often find ourselves surrounded by Common Daisies and Buttercups, their simplicity a strong foundation for our intricate botanical resin art pieces.
Harvesting Techniques for Preserving Natural Beauty
Preserving flowers in their prime is an art unto itself. Each foray into the wild or wander in the garden is an exercise in mindfulness, as we select the most vibrant specimens—taking care to clip them in a sustainable manner that allows for regrowth and continued biodiversity. We’ve learned that the best time for harvesting is typically in the mid-morning, once the dew has cleared but before the sun is high enough to wilt the petals.
Choosing the Right Flowers and Leaves for Resin Work
When curating our collections of Canadian wildflowers for preservation in resin, every botanical holds potential. Yet, not all flowers are created equal in the eyes of a resin artist. While some leaves, like those of the Japanese Maple, add a dramatic flare with their serrated edges and deep hues, others may prove too delicate for the embedding process. We often test a variety of botanical specimens to determine which will maintain their vibrancy and resist fading once encased in the resin’s clear embrace.
We invite you to join us in this dance with nature, as we preserve the ephemeral beauty of the plants around us with mindfulness and artistry. Through our collective efforts in crafting, may we continue to celebrate the bounty of our Canadian wilds, transforming flora into pieces that can be treasured for years to come.
Introduction to Resin Basics
Embarking on the journey into the world of resin art, we come to grasp the essential roles played by epoxy resin tips and Canadian crafting techniques. As we share our experience, we begin with the fundamental steps to ensure a successful resin creation.
Understanding Resin and Hardener Ratios
It is vital to get the mixture right when combining epoxy resin with its partner, the resin hardener. We learned that for most projects, a 1:1 ratio is a good starting point, but always refer to your product’s instructions for the best results. A proper balance between the two components is what facilitates the curing process, leading to a robust and clear finish.
Proper Mixing and Dealing with Viscosity Challenges
Mixing resin is a craft in itself. It requires patience and precision as improper technique can introduce air bubbles or lead to an uneven cure. Stir slowly and thoroughly. The resin’s viscosity can be tricky, affected by temperature and humidity – two factors we Canadians are quite familiar with. If you find the resin too thick, a warm environment can help to thin it out before use.
The Importance of Molds in Resin Art
Silicone molds are among our favourite discoveries. They are forgiving and versatile, making them a perfect choice for beginners and seasoned artists alike. The non-stick nature means our creations release with ease, and their flexibility allows for a multitude of shapes and sizes suitable for any project – whether it’s a simple coaster or an intricate piece of jewelry.
We invite you to join us in this beautiful crafting process. These steps are just the beginning, and there’s much more to explore. For more on our story and how we navigate through life’s challenges with crafting, visit us at www.devilndove.com.
Preparation Techniques to Preserve Botanicals
When we discuss preserving botanicals for our resin art, we’re tapping into a tradition that not only enhances the beauty of our creations but also ensures their longevity. Here’s how we manage to encapsulate the ephemeral brilliance of nature within the sturdy embrace of resin.
Press Drying: To begin with, press drying is our go-to technique for flattening and removing moisture from plants. It’s a trusted method we use to maintain the vibrant colors and structures that lend themselves so well to floral arrangement in resin.
| Botanical | Pressing Time | Color Retention | Texture After Drying |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lilacs | 2-4 weeks | High | Delicate |
| Buttercups | 1-2 weeks | Moderate | Robust |
| Common Daisies | 2-3 weeks | High | Slightly Crisp |
| Japanese Maple | 3-5 weeks | High | Firm |
Once we’ve successfully dried our selected blooms and foliage, the next critical step is to seal them. This is quintessential in crafting with preserved plants, as it prepares them to be submerged in the resin without changing colors or disintegrating.
- Clear-drying glue ensures that each leaf and petal is encapsulated, preventing them from reacting with the resin.
- Hairspray can be used for botanicals that repel glue, applying multiple thin coats to seal them effectively.
- Every botanical species requires a tailored approach to sealing, which reflects our experience and the care we take in each piece we create.
The journey of embedding the essence of nature into resin elaborates a narrative of patience and detail-oriented craftsmanship. It’s a testament to our devotion toward resin embedding and the artistic expression therein. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the ocean of resin art, and please visit us at www.devilndove.com to witness our passion manifest in tangible art pieces that tell their own tales of resilience both in nature and life.
The Art of Press Drying Flowers and Foliage
In our quest to create everlasting beauty, we’ve harnessed the time-honoured tradition of press drying flowers. This technique, integral to our craft, has been instrumental in botanical preservation. Not only does it aid in maintaining the vibrant hues of our flora, it also perfectly prepares them for their final destination within our unique resin art pieces.
Steps for Successful Press Drying
Success in flower drying techniques requires patience and precision. We start by selecting the freshest flowers and foliage, ensuring they’re free from moisture. These botanicals are then carefully placed between layers of absorbent paper, an essential step to prevent the development of mold or mildew. Next, we enclose our floral arrangements within the pages of a substantial book or press, applying an even weight for a period that extends from a few days to several weeks, depending on the plant’s thickness and moisture content.
Pros and Cons of Press Drying Plant Materials
When it comes to crafting with dried plants, press drying stands out as a beloved method due to its simplicity and the beautiful results it produces. It requires no complex equipment and provides a superb way to preserve the natural aspect of the plants. They emerge with their colours almost as vivid as when they were alive, ready to be showcased within our artistic designs.
However, this method comes with a few trade-offs. The drying process leaves the plants flat and somewhat brittle. Designing with such delicate materials in three-dimensional resin art requires a gentle touch and an eye for detail to avoid breaking. Moreover, while the colours remain, the original fullness and vitality of the flower are compressed, something to be minded depending on the aesthetic we’re aiming for.
Despite these challenges, we still cherish the process of press drying flowers – it’s a rewarding part of our passion, enabling us to capture the fleeting beauty of nature in our resin masterpieces. Visit us at www.devilndove.com to explore our botanical collection and experience the delightful interplay of dried flora and artistic resin work.
How to Seal Botanicals with Glue Before Resin Casting
Delving into the meticulous art of creating resin pieces, we’ve learned the importance of establishing robust glue barriers for resin as a vital step to protecting flowers in resin. This not only preserves the beauty of our selected botanicals but also serves to prevent resin reactions that might mar their delicate details.
Creating a Protecting Barrier Against Resin Reaction
Our journey begins with the preparation of a watery solution of PVA glue. By gently submerging each botanical or brushing the adhesive onto their surfaces, we ensure each piece is meticulously coated. This protective layer forms an effective barrier, safeguarding against the potentially damaging effects of the casting process.
Tips for Glue Sealing and Its Effects on Flower Coloration
Whilst the process of sealing botanicals is straightforward, we’ve observed it’s not without nuance. Flowers with more fragile pigments may experience a slight dulling of their vibrancy. Over the course of our resin journey, we’ve adjusted our technique to ensure that each petal and leaf retains the vivacity that drew us to it in nature’s canvas.
| Botanical | Glue Mixture Ratios | Application Method | Colour Preservation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roses | 1:1 water to glue | Soft brush application | High |
| Daisies | 1:2 water to glue | Dunking | Medium |
| Buttercups | 1:1 water to glue | Brush on delicate areas | Low |
| Maple Leaves | Undiluted glue | Brush on veins | High |
If you’re passionate about crafting and would like to support our endeavor amidst the challenges of Osteoporosis and caring for my husband with mental disabilities, we invite you to visit www.devilndove.com. Your encouragement fuels our creativity and helps us continue to share our craft with others.
Alternative Sealing Methods Using Hairspray
In our journey of resin flower preservation, we’ve embraced crafting with hairspray as an ingenious method to seal our botanicals before embedding them in resin. This alternative sealing method is not only accessible but also offers a unique set of advantages for both hobbyists and professional crafters alike.
The Benefits of Using Hairspray as a Sealant
Why consider hairspray sealant for your resin art projects? First off, hairspray is remarkably easy to find and affordable, making it a convenient option for artists of all levels. It dries much faster than other adhesive sealers, which is a significant boon when we’re working on projects with a time constraint. Not to mention, hairspray allows for the botanicals to maintain their natural, vibrant colours and three-dimensional appearance without becoming saturated or losing their delicate details.
Guidelines for Layering and Drying Hairspray
To achieve optimal results when crafting with hairspray, it’s critical to apply it in several light passes. Here’s how we do it:
- Spray a fine mist of hairspray over your flowers and leaves, ensuring you cover both sides evenly.
- Allow the first coat to dry completely, which should take a few minutes, depending on the humidity and ventilation.
- Repeat the process, applying multiple thin coats, rather than one thick coat, to prevent stickiness.
- Check meticulously between layers to ensure you’ve preserved the finesse of the botanicals without oversaturation.
Take heed that patience here is key; don’t rush the drying process! Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a curious beginner, experimenting with alternative sealing methods like hairspray can significantly enhance your resin crafting experiences.
We hope this insight will enrich your crafting journey and encourage you to share your own experiences with resin flower preservation. And remember, we welcome you to support us and become part of our story by visiting www.devilndove.com.
Actionable Steps for Embedding Fresh Blooms in Resin
As artisans who cherish the natural splendor of blooms, we are constantly exploring the enchanting craft of fresh flower embedding in resin. With each piece, we aim to capture a moment in time, transforming fleeting beauty into everlasting art. In this next stage of our guide, we’ll take you through the hands-on process of floral resin casting, showing you how to work with resin and fresh blooms seamlessly.
First and foremost, ensure your flowers are pristine and ready for embedding. Any blemishes or imperfections can become more pronounced once inside the resin. Patience and precision are your allies when arranging the botanicals within the silicone mold; this is where your creativity shines. The freshness of the flowers adds a vibrant touch to the artistry of resin art techniques.
- Gather your fresh botanicals and prepare your clean, dry silicone mold.
- Mix the resin according to the manufacturer’s instructions, being mindful of the ratio for hardener and resin.
- Carefully place the fresh flowers into the mold, considering the final design.
- Slowly pour the mixed resin over the flowers to encapsulate them, avoiding air bubbles.
- Use a toothpick or a similar tool to gently reposition flowers and release trapped air.
- If bubbles appear, pass a blowtorch or lighter quickly over the surface to pop them.
While we emphasize the serenity that comes with working with resin, we must not forget that different flora interacts uniquely with the medium. Please observe the table below for a quick reference on how some common flowers fare when cast in resin.
| Flower Type | Reaction in Resin | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Lilacs | Can Discolor | Choose lighter shades to minimize visibility of discolouration. |
| Buttercups | May Release Pollen | Intensifies yellow hue; ideal for vibrant designs. |
| Roses | Retain Structure Well | Remove excess moisture to prevent clouding. |
| Daisies | Hold Color Beautifully | Ensure flowers are flat to avoid distortion. |
Remember, the resin’s journey from liquid to solid is magical, yet it requires focus and a gentle hand. We often reflect on the tranquility and determination that this craft instills in us. With these techniques, the final product not only embodies the original allure of the blooms but also our spirit as crafters.
Continue to explore the realm of resin art techniques, finding joy in the simple act of creating. You’re not just crafting; you’re part of a blossoming community of creators who appreciate the timeless interplay of nature and resin.
We welcome you to try these methods yourself and to support us on our journey at www.devilndove.com. Share your resin marvels with us and witness how collectively, we can cultivate an atmosphere of creativity and inclusion.
Techniques for Arranging and Casting Dried Botanicals
As passionate creators of dried flower resin art, we’re always exploring new ways to cast and arrange dried flowers for the most appealing resin aesthetics. Each botanical possesses its own unique beauty that, when carefully integrated into resin, results in a mesmerizing piece of art. Here are our insider tips on creating gorgeous resin pieces with dried botanicals.
Choosing the Right Method for Each Flower Type
Selecting the proper technique for arranging dried flowers in resin is paramount. It’s a fusion of science and art, where understanding the characteristics of each flower leads to exceptional works. For example, delicate petals might benefit from a lighter touch, while denser blooms may withstand a bit more pressure during the casting process.
Achieving Aesthetic Results with Dried Botanicals
When we talk about casting botanicals, we’re delving into a realm where patience and precision are the keys to creating stunning visuals. To demonstrate, we’ve put together a table comparing our tried-and-tested methods for various plant types – a guide to harnessing the true potential of these natural elements in your resin art.
| Botanical Type | Drying Method | Sealing Approach | Resin Casting Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roses | Press Drying | Multi-layered Hairspray | Luminous Transparency |
| Daisies | Dehydrator | Clear-drying Glue | Rich Color Retention |
| Lavender | Air Drying | None Needed | Elegant and Natural |
| Ferns | Book Pressing | Water-based Sealant | Stark Clarity and Detail |
We’ve seen how different approaches can lead to varied and captivating results. Our journey with dried flower resin art has been as much about mastering the technical aspects as it has been about embracing the unpredictable beauty of nature. And with each piece we create, we invite you to embark on this serene crafting voyage with us, and support our endeavour at www.devilndove.com.
Our Personal Experience: Crafting with Osteoporosis and Mental Health
Embarking on a crafting journey while navigating the complexities of Osteoporosis and supporting a partner with mental health struggles has been transformative for us at Devil & Dove. It’s a path that has brought forth challenges and triumphs, shaping not just our art but our very lives.
Running a Crafting Business with Physical Limitations
Crafting with Osteoporosis requires us to confront our physical limitations head-on. Our dedication to our craft means finding innovative ways to minimize the strain on fragile bones and joints. Workspaces have been adapted, tools have been modified, and schedules have been carefully planned to allow for rest. These adjustments ensure that the passion for our art remains undiminished while safeguarding health.
Supporting a Partner with a Mental Disability
Disability, agoraphobia, anxiety, and depression cast long shadows on a crafting business. There are days when the weight of these challenges seems insurmountable. Yet, witnessing my partner’s resilience, seeing how crafting can bring moments of peace and clarity, gives us both strength. We’ve made accommodations to ensure a supportive and understanding environment that respects mental health needs.
Inspiration and Motivation for Overcoming Challenges
In the face of adversity, our crafting has become a beacon of hope. It’s not just a business; it’s a testament to overcoming crafting challenges and a therapeutic outlet. Each piece we create carries a narrative of perseverance, symbolizing that, despite disability, anxiety or depression, beauty can prevail. We hope our story can motivate others to indulge in creativity as a powerful form of self-expression and healing.
The act of creating something beautiful has the profound ability to ease the mind and bring joy to the heart. So we invite you to support us and our crafting journey at Devil & Dove, where each creation is interwoven with stories of resilience and mental health awareness. Together, we can cultivate a supportive community and showcase that artistry is boundless, transcending all limitations.
Conclusion
As we’ve navigated through the intricate craft of resin art, it has become increasingly evident that the journey of flower preservation is a patchwork of creative techniques, each with its own set of merits and considerations. Whether we are working with lush fresh blooms or the delicate whisper of dried petals, the quest for the ideal preservation method is ongoing and deeply personal to each Canadian crafter.
Reflecting on the Best Methods for Flower Preservation in Resin
In reflecting upon the myriad of flower preservation techniques in resin, we’ve learned that adaptability is key. Fresh flowers may offer bright bursts of color and a certain vibrancy, but dried botanicals provide consistent hues and enduring shapes. As artisans, we’ve embraced the beauty of trial and error, and it is our sincere hope to foster a community in crafting where such discoveries are openly shared and celebrated.
Encouraging the Reader to Share Their Resin Projects
We warmly encourage you, our fellow crafters and readers, to share your resin project journeys. Through resin project sharing, we create a mosaic of inspiration and innovation, strengthening the fabric of our crafting community. Your experiences are invaluable, and we invite you to mystify us with your preservation prowess and artistic achievements.
Invitation to Support Our Craft and Journey
On our personal front, we manage the twin challenges of physical limitations through Osteoporosis and the complexities of mental health as we support a partner grappling with disabilities. We believe in the transformative power of art, and how it can be a vessel for overcoming life’s hurdles. We invite you to join us at devilndove.com, not just in supporting Canadian crafters but in crafting a narrative that champions resilience, dispels the stigma around mental health, and honors the diverse expressions of our artistry.
FAQ
How do I begin arranging items in my resin project?
Start by meticulously planning your design and ensuring your items are prepared and sealed if necessary. Carefully place them into the mold before pouring the mixed resin over them, adjusting as needed to achieve your desired arrangement.
What types of botanicals work best for embedding in resin?
Botanicals that work best are usually those with less moisture, such as pressed flowers or leaves. Flowers like Lilacs, Cherry Blossoms, and Daisies are popular choices due to their color and structure.
Can I use fresh plants in my resin art?
Yes, fresh plants can be used, but they require proper preparation such as pressing and sealing to remove moisture that could affect the resin’s setting process.
How do I properly mix resin and hardener for my art project?
Mix the resin and hardener in the manufacturer-recommended ratio, typically 1:1 or 2:1. Ensure that you mix thoroughly to avoid sticky or soft spots in your final piece.
Do you have any tips for working with the viscosity of resin?
To deal with viscosity challenges, work in a warm environment, as heat can lower resin’s viscosity, making it easier to pour. Ensure your resin is at room temperature before beginning your project.
Why are silicone molds recommended for resin art?
Silicone molds are recommended because they are flexible, allowing for easy demolding, and their non-stick surface ensures a smooth finish on your resin piece.
What are the advantages of press drying flowers before embedding them in resin?
Press drying flowers helps preserve their color and shape, reduces moisture that can interfere with the resin, and can give a more consistent look to the finished product.
Why should botanicals be sealed before casting in resin?
Sealing botanicals helps to prevent any adverse reactions with the resin, such as color bleeding or bubbling, ensuring a clear and pristine finish in the final piece.
Can hairspray be used as a sealant for flowers in resin projects?
Yes, hairspray is a suitable sealant that dries quickly and helps retain the flowers’ natural color and shape. However, it should be applied in multiple light layers.
How do I embed fresh blooms in resin without trapping air bubbles?
Carefully arrange your fresh blooms in the mold, pour the resin slowly, and use a tool like a toothpick to adjust the flowers and release trapped air. A heat source like a blowtorch can also help to pop any remaining bubbles.
What is the best method for arranging dried botanicals in resin?
The best method involves selecting botanicals that are completely dry and sealed, then carefully placing them within the resin, layering as needed to position them accurately before the resin cures.
How has crafting helped you manage Osteoporosis and support mental health?
Crafting provides us with a therapeutic and creative outlet that helps us manage the physical limitations from Osteoporosis and the impact of mental health conditions. It’s a form of expression and a way to maintain a positive focus.
What are some ways to support a partner dealing with a mental disability like agoraphobia or anxiety?
To support a partner with a mental disability, be patient, provide emotional support, encourage professional help, and foster a calm and stress-free environment. Engaging in shared activities like crafting can also be beneficial.
How can I contribute to the crafting community and share my own resin projects?
You can join online forums, attend craft workshops, or share your projects on social media platforms dedicated to resin art. Additionally, visiting websites like ours encourages a sense of community and creativity.
Source Links
RELATED POSTS
View all
