How to Make a DIY Flower-Pressed Jewelry Pendant

Creating a DIY flower-pressed jewelry pendant is a beautiful way to preserve nature and create a unique, handmade accessory. Whether you’re making a pendant for yourself or as a heartfelt gift, this process is both rewarding and surprisingly simple. Follow this step-by-step guide to craft your own stunning flower-pressed pendant.

Materials Needed

• Small, fresh flowers or petals

• Heavy books or a flower press

• Clear resin (epoxy or UV resin)

• Pendant bezels or mold

• Mixing cups and stir sticks

• Tweezers

• Toothpicks

• Sandpaper (fine-grit)

• Jump rings and chain

• Drill (if using resin molds)

• Gloves and protective mask (for resin safety)

Step 1: Selecting and Pressing Flowers

Choose delicate flowers such as forget-me-nots, daisies, or violets, as they press well and retain their shape. Avoid thick flowers, as they may not flatten properly.

To press:

1. Lay flowers between parchment or wax paper.

2. Place them inside a book and weigh it down with other heavy books.

3. Leave for 1-2 weeks to ensure they are fully dried.

4. If using a flower press, tighten the screws and wait about a week.

Step 2: Preparing the Pendant Base

If using a pendant bezel:

• Clean the bezel to remove any dust or oils.

• Arrange the pressed flowers inside to see how they will look.

If using a resin mold:

• Ensure the mold is clean and dry.

• Arrange the flowers upside down so they appear correctly in the final piece.

Step 3: Mixing the Resin

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing the resin.

• Wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area.

• Mix the resin and hardener in the correct ratio, stirring slowly to avoid bubbles.

Step 4: Encapsulating the Flowers

1. Pour a thin layer of resin into the bezel or mold.

2. Use tweezers to carefully place the pressed flowers on the resin.

3. Add another layer of resin to fully cover the flowers.

4. Use a toothpick to remove bubbles or reposition flowers if necessary.

For UV resin:

• Cure under a UV lamp for a few minutes.

For epoxy resin:

• Let it cure for 24-48 hours in a dust-free space.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

• If needed, sand the edges with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out imperfections.

• Drill a small hole if using a mold without a pre-made pendant hole.

• Attach a jump ring and chain to complete the pendant.

Tips for Best Results

• Use flowers that contrast with the background for a striking effect.

• Work quickly when handling resin to avoid premature curing.

• Store pressed flowers in an airtight container to keep them dry.

With a little patience and creativity, you can create a breathtaking flower-pressed jewelry pendant that captures the beauty of nature in a wearable form.