Pressed flower crafts have a timeless, delicate beauty, capturing nature’s colors in a way that lasts. But instead of just framing pressed flowers, why not turn them into gorgeous, functional resin coasters?
These DIY pressed flower coasters are the perfect blend of art and utility, making them ideal for home decor or thoughtful handmade gifts. They’re completely customizable, allowing you to use wildflowers, petals from a special bouquet, or even leaves for a more rustic look.
If you’ve never worked with resin before, don’t worry—this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know to create professional-looking coasters right from home.
Let’s get started.
What You’ll Need
Supplies
- Clear epoxy resin and hardener (available at craft stores or online)
- Silicone coaster molds (round, square, or any shape you like)
- Dried pressed flowers (store-bought or flowers you press yourself)
- Mixing cups
- Wooden stir sticks
- Gloves and a protective work surface
- A heat gun or a small torch (to remove bubbles)
- Tweezers (for placing flowers precisely)
- Gold flakes or glitter (optional, for added elegance)
If you don’t have pre-pressed flowers, you can press fresh flowers between heavy books for about a week or use a flower press for faster results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Work Area
Resin can be sticky and messy, so work in a well-ventilated area and cover your workspace with wax paper or plastic. Wear gloves and old clothes to protect yourself from spills.
Set out all your materials so you’re ready to work quickly once the resin is mixed.
Step 2: Arrange Your Pressed Flowers
Before pouring the resin, decide on your design by arranging the pressed flowers in the coaster molds.
- Play around with different layouts, mixing colors and textures for a balanced look.
- Use tweezers to position delicate petals exactly how you want them.
- If you’re adding gold flakes, glitter, or small leaves, place them now for an extra artistic touch.
Once satisfied with your design, carefully remove the flowers and set them aside.
Step 3: Mix the Resin
- Follow the instructions on your epoxy resin and hardener for the correct mixing ratio.
- Pour equal amounts of resin and hardener into a mixing cup.
- Stir slowly but thoroughly with a wooden stir stick for at least two to three minutes. Avoid stirring too fast to prevent air bubbles.
Once mixed, let the resin sit for one to two minutes to allow any bubbles to rise to the surface.
Step 4: Pour the First Layer of Resin
- Slowly pour a thin layer of resin into each coaster mold, covering only the bottom.
- Let the resin sit for about 10 minutes, then use a heat gun or torch to remove any air bubbles that appear.
This first layer will create a smooth, clear base for your flowers.
Step 5: Place the Flowers in the Resin
- Using tweezers, gently place the pressed flowers onto the resin layer.
- Arrange them as planned, pressing them lightly into the resin so they don’t float.
Let the flowers settle for five to ten minutes before adding the final layer of resin.
Step 6: Seal the Flowers with the Final Resin Layer
- Slowly pour another layer of resin on top of the flowers, filling the mold completely.
- Let the resin sit for five minutes, then use the heat gun again to remove bubbles.
- If any flowers start floating, use a toothpick or stir stick to gently press them back down.
Leave the coasters undisturbed for at least 24 hours to fully cure.
Step 7: Remove and Finish Your Coasters
- Once the resin has completely hardened, carefully pop the coasters out of the molds.
- If any edges feel sharp, sand them lightly with fine-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish.
Your coasters are now ready to use, display, or gift!
Customization Ideas
Personalized Gift Coasters
- Use wedding flowers or anniversary bouquet petals for a sentimental touch.
- Include initials, dates, or tiny printed messages sealed inside the resin.
Seasonal Coasters
- Spring: Bright daisies, lavender, or tiny ferns
- Summer: Bold sunflowers or vibrant wildflowers
- Fall: Leaves in warm shades of red and gold
- Winter: White flowers with silver flakes or pine sprigs
Gold-Leaf Accents
Add a touch of gold leaf between the resin layers for a more elegant, high-end look.
Picture This
Imagine setting your morning coffee down on a delicate pressed flower coaster, the petals perfectly preserved beneath a crystal-clear surface. The warm glow of the resin enhances the natural beauty of the flowers, turning something simple into a functional piece of art.
Later, you wrap up a set of these handmade coasters in kraft paper and tie them with twine. When your friend opens them, their eyes light up at the sight of the handcrafted, one-of-a-kind gift, made just for them.
Every time they use them, they think of you.
Ready to Make Your Own Pressed Flower Coasters?
Now that you know how easy and fun it is to create your own resin coasters, what flowers will you use?
Save this tutorial to Pinterest and tag @HooksAndHavens when you share your creations.
