A few tiny flowers can turn a clear resin coaster into a miniature garden. In this tutorial, we’ll set the flowers beneath a clear surface, then add a contrasting colour at the back. When you turn the finished coaster over, that colour makes the petals stand out through the resin.
PassionArt 1:1 Art Resin from Resin Wood Tables NZ is suitable for coaster moulds. Measure it 1:1 by volume—equal volumes of resin and hardener—and keep each pour within the product’s 15 mm maximum depth.
What you’ll need
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Disposable Clear Graduated Plastic Mixing Cups with Measurement Markings
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Small Paint Brushes
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Crekoat Powder-Free Latex Gloves for Epoxy Resin & Resin Art NZ
Work in a ventilated space and follow the instructions supplied with your resin and colourant. Choose flat blooms that fit comfortably below the mould rim. Flowers must be fully dry: moisture trapped in a flower can spoil the appearance of a resin casting. Flower drying crystals are one way to prepare more delicate blooms.
Step 1: Plan your floral design
Set the dry flowers beside the mould and try a few arrangements before mixing resin. Leave some clear space around the petals so the design does not feel crowded.
The smooth bottom of most coaster moulds forms the front of the finished coaster. Place each flower with the side you want to see facing down into the mould. Look through the underside of the mould, if possible, to check your arrangement.
Step 2: Mix a small batch of clear resin
Measure equal volumes of Part A resin and Part B hardener. Stir slowly and thoroughly, scraping the sides and bottom of the cup as you go. Mixing gently helps limit bubbles. Resin Wood Tables NZ recommends a steady room temperature around 20–23°C; working time is roughly 30–40 minutes, depending on conditions. Mix only what you can use in that time.
Step 3: Pour the clear front layer
Pour a thin layer of clear resin into each clean, level mould—just enough to cover its base. Let it settle and use a toothpick to move any visible bubbles away from the edges. Allow this layer to thicken enough that the flowers will stay where you put them. Check it periodically rather than relying on a fixed number of minutes: room temperature and batch size affect how quickly resin sets.
Step 4: Place the flowers
Use tweezers to lower each flower face down onto the clear layer. A tiny dab of mixed resin can help a stubborn petal stay flat. Press gently with a toothpick so no air remains under the petals, and check the arrangement before the resin firms up.
Small pressed flowers are especially easy to position. If you use thicker dried blooms, make sure the mould is deep enough to cover them completely.
Step 5: Seal the flowers under clear resin
Mix a fresh small batch if needed. Pour clear resin slowly over the flowers, working from one side so it can flow around the petals. Cover every flower and stem, while leaving a little room at the top of the mould for the coloured backing.
Lift visible bubbles with a toothpick, then cover the mould to keep dust out. Let this clear layer become firm enough that the next pour will sit on top without disturbing the flowers.
Step 6: Add the contrasting colour to the back
Now for the effect that brings the flowers forward. Mix another small batch of PassionArt resin, then blend in a resin-compatible opaque pigment or mica until the colour looks even. Pour a thin layer over the back of the clear casting while it is still in the mould. Spread it to the edges without overfilling.
Try an ivory or deep navy backing behind pink flowers, black behind bright yellow blooms, or a soft sage behind white daisies. An opaque colour gives the flowers a defined backdrop; a translucent tint gives a gentler, layered look. The backing is the last layer poured, but it will sit behind the flowers when you view the coaster from its glossy front.
Step 7: Cure, demould and finish
Cover the moulds and leave them level and undisturbed until the resin has cured according to the instructions for your kit. Resin Wood Tables NZ lists a full cure of up to 18 hours on its product page, while its mixing guide advises allowing about 24 hours and longer for the piece to reach its best hardness. Give the coasters extra time if they still feel flexible.
Gently flex the silicone mould away from each coaster. Check the edges and, if necessary, smooth any sharp overflow after the resin has hardened. You can add small protective feet to the fully cured back.
Turn a coaster over and hold it against the light: the flowers should appear suspended beneath the clear face, with your chosen colour framing every petal. Make a coordinated set with the same backing shade, or give each coaster its own colour to suit the flowers inside.
How to Make Floral Resin Coasters with Dried Flowers Video
