Can you embed living materials or organics in resin?

Why Drying and Sealing Matters

Organic materials contain moisture, which can cause problems like discolouration, mould, or decay when trapped inside resin. Before embedding, always dry your organics thoroughly using an appropriate method such as air drying or desiccant. Once dried, a light protective seal with acrylic spray or a similar barrier helps lock out remaining moisture and keeps colours vibrant after casting.

Step-by-Step Guide to Embedding Organics

• Dry your materials: Ensure flowers, leaves, or other organics are completely free from water.
• Seal the surface: Spray a thin, even layer of clear acrylic sealer and allow it to cure fully.
• Select the right resin: For embedments up to 2cm thick, “Trasparente” clear epoxy resin is ideal for clarity and a bubble-free finish. For deeper pieces, resins formulated for thick pours such as “EpoxyTable 5-Five” are recommended.
• Pour in layers if needed: Apply a thin layer first, arrange your dried organics, and top up with more resin after the first layer gels to reduce trapped air.

When This Matters

Preparation is crucial whenever you want to preserve the natural appearance of botanicals, insects, or other organic materials in art, jewellery, or display pieces. Skipping the drying step risks cloudiness or internal decay, reducing both the look and longevity of your embedded piece.