If you’re looking for a beautiful and beginner-friendly resin art idea, these Red Pressed Flower Resin Coasters are the perfect project. Combining delicate dried flowers with shimmering gold flakes creates a timeless design that’s both functional and decorative. This DIY resin coaster tutorial is suitable for crafters of all skill levels — from those new to epoxy resin for coasters to experienced artists seeking a fresh and elegant look.
Whether you want to make handmade décor, unique gifts, or simply explore arts and crafts resin techniques, this step-by-step guide will walk you through how to make coasters with resin that are both stunning and durable.
Materials List
Gather your supplies before beginning. Having everything ready ensures smooth, bubble-free results.
- Art resin (Part A and B)
- Resin warmer or heating mat
- Coaster molds with a lip (100 mL capacity each)
- Red pressed flowers (dried)
- Gold flakes or gold leaf
- Mixing cups and stir sticks
- Skewers or toothpicks (for releasing air bubbles)
- Baby wipes (for sticky cleanup)
- Tweezers (for flower placement)
- Craft knife
- Ruler
- Glue gun (optional for quick mold repair)
- Scissors
- Protective gloves and surface cover
- Respirator
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Work on a level surface protected by parchment paper or silicone mats. Resin can be messy, so always wear gloves and ensure the area is dust-free.
Step 2: Measure and Mix the Resin
Measure equal parts of Part A and Part B (100 mL each for this project). Slowly mix them together for at least 3 minutes, scraping the sides of the cup to ensure the components are fully blended. If using a resin warmer, let the mixture rest for a few minutes to reduce bubbles.
Step 3: First Pour (Base Layer)
Pour the resin halfway into each coaster mold — about 50 mL per mold. Use a skewer to gently run through the edges to pop any trapped air bubbles.
Step 4: Add Flowers and Gold Flakes
Use tweezers to position red pressed flowers evenly in each mold. Scatter small amounts of gold flakes around the petals to create a natural, floating effect. Make sure the flowers are flat against the base layer to prevent trapped air.
Step 5: Second Pour (Top Layer)
Once the base layer becomes firm to the touch (2–3 hours with a resin warmer, or 8–10 hours at room temperature), mix another batch of resin and fill the molds to the top. This seals the flowers and flakes inside, giving the coasters a crystal-clear finish.
Step 6: Curing
Allow the coasters to cure fully for 24 hours at room temperature or according to your resin’s manufacturer instructions. Avoid touching or moving them during this time to prevent fingerprints or dust settling on the surface.
Step 7: Unmold and Finish
Once hardened, gently remove the coasters from the molds. If the edges are slightly pliable, place them on a flat surface to ensure they harden evenly. Trim any rough edges with a craft knife.
Pro Tips & Crafting Guidelines
- Warm the resin before mixing to reduce bubbles and make pouring smoother.
- Always pour slowly to minimize trapped air.
- If bubbles rise during curing, use a heat gun on low to gently pop them — keep the heat source 8–10 inches away.
- Avoid moving the coasters during the first two hours of curing for a perfect glass-like surface.
- For deep molds, layer your pours to prevent overheating.
Troubleshooting
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Bubbles trapped near flowers | Air pockets from flower stems | Seal flowers with a thin layer of resin before placing |
| Uneven surface | Mold not level | Place molds on a flat, stable surface |
| Sticky or soft finish | Incorrect resin ratio | Ensure 1:1 ratio and mix thoroughly |
| Cloudy resin | Over-mixing or humidity | Warm the resin slightly before mixing |
Creative Variations
- Seasonal themes: Try white flowers and silver flakes for winter or sunflowers for summer.
- Personalization: Embed small charms, initials, or glitter for a custom look.
- Color tinting: Add a drop of mica powder or alcohol ink to the top layer for tinted glass effects.
- Natural texture: Incorporate sand or dried leaves for rustic coasters.
Each variation keeps the essence of DIY resin coasters while letting you experiment with unique textures and tones.
Final Results
Once cured, your Red Pressed Flower Resin Coasters will showcase a clear, glass-like finish with delicate red petals suspended in gold shimmer. They’re heat-resistant, waterproof, and make stunning handmade décor pieces for coffee tables or thoughtful gifts for friends and family. Each coaster highlights the beauty of nature, preserved forever in glossy resin.