If you are looking for a unique and meaningful way to honor the memory of a loved one who has passed away, putting their ashes in epoxy resin can be a beautiful option. This process involves mixing a small amount of ashes with resin and creating a beautiful keepsake that can be treasured for years to come.
While the process of putting ashes in epoxy resin may seem daunting at first, it can actually be a fairly simple and straightforward DIY project. With the right materials and a bit of patience, you can create a beautiful and personalized piece that honors your loved one’s memory in a unique and special way. In this article, we will walk you through the steps involved in putting ashes in epoxy resin, providing tips and tricks along the way to help you create a beautiful and meaningful keepsake.
Gathering Materials
Before you begin the process of putting ashes in epoxy resin, you will need to gather the necessary materials. Here are the three main categories of materials you will need:
Epoxy Resin
The first thing you will need is a clear, non-yellowing, 2-part epoxy resin. This type of resin is commonly used for jewelry making and other crafts. You can find it at most craft stores or online. Make sure to read the instructions carefully before purchasing to ensure that it is suitable for your project.
Some popular brands of epoxy resin include:
- ArtResin
- ProMarine Supplies
- Crystal Clear Epoxy
Ashes
The next thing you will need is the ashes of your loved one. You can collect the ashes from a crematorium or funeral home. Make sure to use a clean, dry spoon or scoop to collect the ashes. It is important to note that not all ashes are suitable for use in resin. If the ashes are too coarse or contain large pieces, they may not mix well with the resin.
Safety Equipment
Working with epoxy resin can be hazardous if proper safety precautions are not taken. Here are some safety equipment you should have:
- Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your skin from the resin.
- Respirator: A respirator will protect your lungs from inhaling fumes from the resin.
- Goggles: Wear goggles to protect your eyes from the resin.
- Apron: Wear an apron to protect your clothes from the resin.
Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use of the safety equipment.
Preparing the Ashes
Before you can add ashes to epoxy resin, you need to prepare them properly. This involves cleaning and sifting the ashes to remove any large debris or impurities that could affect the final appearance of the resin. Follow these steps to get started:
Cleaning the Ashes
The first step in preparing ashes for resin casting is to clean them. This is important because ashes can contain impurities that could affect the final appearance of the resin. To clean the ashes, you will need a fine mesh strainer or sieve and a clean, dry container.
Place the ashes into the strainer and gently shake it over the container to remove any large debris or impurities. You may need to repeat this process several times to ensure that the ashes are clean and free of debris.
Sifting the Ashes
After cleaning the ashes, it is time to sift them to remove any remaining impurities. You will need a fine mesh sifter or sieve for this step. Place the cleaned ashes into the sifter and gently shake it over a clean, dry container. This will help to remove any remaining debris or impurities from the ashes.
If you notice any large pieces of bone or other debris in the ashes, you may need to crush them into smaller pieces before sifting them. This can be done using a mortar and pestle or other crushing tool.
Once you have sifted the ashes, you are ready to add them to the epoxy resin. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure that your resin casting turns out perfectly.
Mixing the Resin
Now that you have prepared the ashes and the mold, it’s time to mix the resin. Here are the steps:
1. Read the instructions on your resin package carefully. Different brands of resin may have different mixing ratios and curing times. Make sure you follow the instructions to the letter to avoid any mishaps.
2. Wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from the resin fumes. Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area.
3. Pour the resin and the hardener into separate cups according to the mixing ratio specified in the instructions. For example, if the ratio is 1:1, you will need equal amounts of resin and hardener.
4. Mix the two components together in a third cup. Use a stir stick or a wooden dowel to stir the mixture thoroughly for at least two minutes. Make sure you scrape the sides and bottom of the cup to ensure that the resin and hardener are fully mixed.
5. If you want to add color to the resin, this is the time to do it. You can use resin dyes, pigments, or even glitter to create a unique look. Add a small amount of color to the resin mixture and stir well.
6. Pour the resin mixture into the mold. Be careful not to overfill the mold, as the resin will expand slightly as it cures. Use a toothpick or a skewer to pop any air bubbles that may have formed on the surface of the resin.
7. Let the resin cure according to the instructions on the package. This may take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the brand of resin and the temperature and humidity of your workspace.
That’s it! Once the resin has cured, you can remove the piece from the mold and admire your handiwork. You now have a beautiful and meaningful keepsake that will last a lifetime.
Combining the Ashes and Resin
Adding the Ashes to the Resin
To add the ashes to the resin, you will need to make sure the ashes are finely ground. You can use a mortar and pestle or a coffee grinder to achieve this. Once the ashes are finely ground, you can add them to the resin.
It is important to note that the amount of ashes you add to the resin will affect the final color of the piece. If you want a lighter color, add less ashes. If you want a darker color, add more ashes.
Mixing the Ashes and Resin
After adding the ashes to the resin, you will need to mix them together thoroughly. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing the resin.
You can use a stir stick or a small plastic spoon to mix the resin and ashes together. Be sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the mixing container to ensure the ashes are evenly distributed throughout the resin.
Once the ashes and resin are mixed together, you can pour the mixture into your desired mold. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for pouring the resin.
In summary, adding ashes to epoxy resin requires finely grinding the ashes and thoroughly mixing them with the resin. The amount of ashes added will affect the final color of the piece. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and pouring the resin.
Pouring the Mixture
Preparing the Mold
Before pouring the mixture, you need to prepare the mold. Make sure that it is clean and dry. If you are using a silicone mold, you can skip this step. However, if you are using a plastic mold, you should apply a thin layer of mold release spray to prevent the resin from sticking to the mold.
Pouring the Mixture into the Mold
Once the mold is ready, you can start pouring the mixture. Here are the steps to follow:
- Hold the mixing cup above the mold and pour the mixture slowly and steadily into the center of the mold.
- Use a toothpick or a skewer to spread the mixture evenly throughout the mold.
- If you are using a mold with multiple cavities, pour the mixture into each cavity one at a time.
- Tap the mold gently on the table to remove any air bubbles.
- Cover the mold with a piece of plastic wrap to prevent dust and debris from settling on the surface.
- Allow the resin to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves to protect your skin. Also, be careful not to overfill the mold, as this can cause the mixture to spill over the edges. With these tips in mind, you should be able to create beautiful and meaningful pieces of epoxy resin jewelry that will last a lifetime.
Curing and Finishing
Curing the Resin
After pouring the resin and ashes mixture into your mold, it’s time to cure the piece. Follow the instructions on your specific resin for curing time and temperature. Keep in mind that the curing process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
During the curing process, it’s important to keep the resin in a dust-free environment and away from direct sunlight. Any dust or debris can get trapped in the resin and ruin the final piece. Additionally, direct sunlight can cause the resin to yellow over time.
Sanding and Polishing the Piece
Once the resin has cured, it’s time to remove it from the mold and begin sanding and polishing. Start with a coarse sandpaper to remove any rough edges or bumps. Gradually work your way up to a finer grit sandpaper until the surface is smooth.
After sanding, it’s time to polish the piece. Apply a polishing compound to a soft cloth and gently rub it onto the surface of the resin. This will give the piece a glossy finish. Alternatively, you can use a clear coat spray to give the piece a protective layer and a shiny finish.
Remember to wear protective gear such as gloves and a mask when sanding and polishing the piece. This will protect you from any harmful chemicals or dust.
In conclusion, curing and finishing your resin and ashes piece is an important step in the process. Take your time and follow the instructions carefully to ensure a beautiful and long-lasting final piece.