What You Can and Can’t Embed in Epoxy Resin (Complete Guide)
Epoxy resin has quickly become one of the most popular materials in DIY crafts, jewellery making, and home décor. Its crystal-clear finish, durability, and endless creative possibilities make it ideal for both beginners and professionals. One of the most exciting techniques is embedding objects in resin, allowing you to preserve memories inside stunning, glass-like creations.
If you’re wondering what you can and can’t embed in epoxy resin, this guide covers everything—from safe materials to avoidable mistakes, along with advanced techniques to achieve professional results.
Why Embed Objects in Resin?
Embedding objects in resin is not just about decoration—it’s about storytelling and preservation. Resin allows you to capture meaningful items and turn them into long-lasting keepsakes.
- Personalisation: Preserve flowers, photos, or sentimental items.
- Aesthetic appeal: Adds depth and dimension to your projects.
- Durability: Protect delicate materials like petals and paper.
- Unique designs: Every piece becomes one-of-a-kind.
What You Can Embed in Epoxy Resin
Choosing the right materials ensures durability and a flawless finish. Here are safe and commonly used items:
- Dried flowers, leaves, and petals
- Shells, stones, and crystals
- Glitter, mica powder, and pigments
- Coins, charms, and small metal objects
- Photographs (sealed properly)
- Paper cut-outs and fabric (sealed)
- LED lights, magnets, and decorative elements
What You Can’t Embed in Epoxy Resin
Some materials can ruin your project or cause long-term damage. Avoid embedding the following:
- Fresh flowers or leaves (contain moisture)
- Wet or damp materials
- Food items (can rot or discolour)
- Soft plastics (may melt or react)
- Unsealed paper or photos
- Living organisms (ethical and decay issues)
Tip: Always ensure materials are completely dry and sealed before embedding.
Materials and Tools You Will Need
- High-quality epoxy resin (e.g. Res-iT Epoxy Resin Kit)
- Silicone moulds
- Mixing cups and sticks
- Tweezers for precision placement
- Heat gun or torch (bubble removal)
- Protective gear (gloves, mask, apron)
How to Embed Objects in Epoxy Resin
Prepare Your Workspace
Work in a clean, dust-free, and well-ventilated area. Protect your surface with a silicone mat.
Mix the Resin
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Mix slowly to avoid creating bubbles.
Pour the Base Layer
Pour a thin base layer and allow it to become slightly tacky before placing objects.
Position the Objects
Use tweezers to carefully place items. Arrange them precisely as they will stay fixed.
Seal Porous Materials
Seal paper, fabric, or flowers with a clear sealant to prevent bubbles and discolouration.
Pour Final Layers
Add resin in thin layers until objects are fully covered. Use a heat gun to remove bubbles.
Curing
Allow the resin to cure for 24–48 hours without disturbance.
Advanced Tips for Perfect Results
- Layering: Create depth by embedding objects in multiple layers.
- Prevent floating: Secure lightweight items with a thin base layer.
- Bubble removal: Use heat carefully after each layer.
- Custom backgrounds: Add pigments or glitter for unique effects.
- Seal photos: Always seal photos before embedding.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Bubbles around objects – seal materials properly
- Discolouration – avoid moisture
- Floating items – pour in layers
- Uneven surface – avoid overfilling moulds
Creative Resin Project Ideas
- Resin jewellery with flowers or glitter
- River tables with stones or LEDs
- Keepsake coasters
- Photo frames with metallic flakes
- Decorative resin art blocks
Frequently Asked Questions About Embedding Objects in Epoxy Resin
What can you embed in epoxy resin?
You can embed fully dried and suitable materials such as dried flowers, leaves, petals, shells, stones, crystals, glitter, mica powder, pigments, coins, charms, small metal objects, sealed photographs, sealed paper, and fabric.
What should you not embed in epoxy resin?
Avoid fresh flowers, leaves, wet or damp materials, food, soft plastics that may react with the resin, and unsealed paper or photographs. These materials can introduce moisture, cause discolouration, or affect the final result.
Can you put fresh flowers in epoxy resin?
Fresh flowers should not be embedded directly in epoxy resin because they contain moisture. Dry the flowers thoroughly first and seal them appropriately before placing them in resin.
Can you embed dried flowers in epoxy resin?
Yes. Completely dried flowers, leaves, and petals can be embedded in epoxy resin. Sealing porous plant materials before embedding can help reduce bubbles and discolouration.
Can you put photos in epoxy resin?
Yes, photographs can be embedded, but they should be properly sealed first. Sealing helps protect the paper and image from absorbing resin and can reduce the risk of bubbles or discolouration.
Can you put paper in epoxy resin?
Paper can be embedded in epoxy resin when it has been properly sealed beforehand. Unsealed paper may absorb resin and can develop bubbles, darkening, or other unwanted changes.
Can you embed fabric in epoxy resin?
Yes. Fabric can be embedded in epoxy resin when it is clean, completely dry, and appropriately sealed. Thin layers of resin can help secure the fabric and create a smoother finished surface.
Can you embed metal objects in epoxy resin?
Small metal objects such as coins and charms can be embedded in epoxy resin. Make sure the objects are clean and dry before placing them into the resin.
Can you embed shells and stones in epoxy resin?
Yes. Clean, dry shells, stones, and crystals can be used as decorative elements in resin projects. They can add texture, colour, and depth to jewellery, coasters, decorative blocks, and other crafts.
Can you embed glitter and mica powder in epoxy resin?
Yes. Glitter, mica powder, and suitable pigments can be incorporated into epoxy resin to create coloured, metallic, shimmering, and layered effects.
How do you stop objects from floating in epoxy resin?
Use a thin base layer of resin to help secure lightweight objects before adding the remaining layers. Pouring the resin gradually can also help keep objects positioned correctly.
How do you prevent bubbles around embedded objects?
Make sure porous materials are properly sealed and mix the resin slowly to reduce trapped air. Pouring in layers and carefully removing visible bubbles can also help produce a clearer finish.
How long does epoxy resin take to cure after embedding objects?
The curing time depends on the specific epoxy resin system, project thickness, temperature, and other conditions. Follow the manufacturer's instructions rather than relying on a fixed curing time.
Can you embed LED lights in epoxy resin?
LED lights and other decorative elements can be incorporated into suitable resin projects. Plan the placement carefully and make sure the components are appropriate for embedding in the specific resin system.
How do you seal objects before putting them in epoxy resin?
Porous materials such as paper, fabric, and dried flowers should be completely dry and coated with a suitable clear sealant before embedding. Allow the sealant to dry fully according to its instructions before adding the material to the resin.
Final Thoughts
Embedding objects in epoxy resin opens up endless creative possibilities. With the right materials and techniques, you can transform everyday items into durable and visually stunning pieces.
Turn memories into masterpieces—let your creativity shine through every drop of resin.
