How to Make a DIY Floral-Pressed Coaster Set

Making a DIY floral-pressed coaster set is a fun and creative project that allows you to bring a touch of nature into your home décor. With a few simple materials, you can create unique, personalized coasters that will add a beautiful and natural element to your coffee table or dining area. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create your own floral-pressed coaster set.

Materials Needed

• Fresh flowers or leaves (small flowers work best)

• Parchment paper or wax paper

• A heavy book or flower press

• Coaster molds or silicone coaster trays

• Clear epoxy resin (or resin casting kit)

• Mixing cups and stir sticks

• Disposable gloves

• Isopropyl alcohol (for cleaning)

• Optional: Glitter, colored dye, or small decorative items (to enhance your design)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Select and Press Your Flowers

The first step is to gather the flowers and leaves you want to use for your coasters. Small, flat flowers and leaves work best as they are easier to press and will lay flatter when placed in the resin.

How to Press Flowers:

• Place the flowers between two sheets of parchment or wax paper.

• Put the sheets with the flowers into a heavy book, or use a flower press if you have one.

• Let the flowers press for about 1-2 weeks, or until they are completely dried and flattened. The longer you press, the more delicate and well-preserved the flowers will be.

2. Prepare the Coaster Molds

While your flowers are drying, prepare the coaster molds. Silicone molds work well because they are flexible and allow for easy removal of the coasters once they have cured.

• Clean the molds with a soft cloth or paper towel to remove any dust or dirt.

• If you want to add a layer of color or glitter to your coasters, this is the time to mix in your resin dye or glitter with the clear epoxy resin.

3. Mix the Epoxy Resin

Read the instructions on the resin package carefully and prepare the resin accordingly. Resin typically comes in two parts: resin and hardener. You’ll need to mix these two components in equal proportions, usually in a separate disposable cup.

Tip: Always wear gloves to avoid skin contact with the resin. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid inhaling any fumes.

4. Pour a Base Layer of Resin

Once your resin is mixed, pour a thin layer into the bottom of your coaster mold. This will act as the base layer that the flowers will sit on. Allow this layer to cure for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until it’s partially set but still slightly sticky.

5. Place the Pressed Flowers

After the base layer has set, arrange your pressed flowers inside the mold. You can be as creative as you like, arranging flowers in a circular pattern, a random design, or even layering multiple flowers for a 3D effect. If you want, you can also add small decorative elements, such as glitter, small beads, or colored resin.

Tip: Use tweezers to carefully place the flowers in the resin to avoid damaging them.

6. Pour the Second Layer of Resin

Once the flowers are in place, gently pour more resin over them to cover them completely. Be careful not to overflow the mold. Make sure the flowers are fully submerged in the resin, and use a stir stick to adjust them if necessary.

After pouring the second layer, tap the mold gently to remove any air bubbles. You can also use a small torch or heat gun to remove any trapped bubbles on the surface.

7. Let the Resin Cure

Leave the coasters in a safe, dust-free area to cure. The resin will take about 24-48 hours to fully harden, depending on the type of resin you used and the temperature of the room. Avoid touching or moving the molds during this time to ensure the resin cures evenly.

8. Demold the Coasters

Once the resin is completely cured, carefully remove the coasters from the silicone mold. The flexible nature of the silicone will make it easy to pop the coasters out without damaging them.

If you find any rough edges or excess resin around the edges of the coasters, you can use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth them out. Be gentle and take your time to avoid scratching the surface.

9. Add a Protective Finish (Optional)

For added protection and shine, you can apply a thin coat of clear resin on top of the coasters once they are fully hardened. This will give them a glossy finish and help protect the flowers from fading over time. Let the coasters cure again if you choose to do this step.

10. Enjoy Your Floral-Pressed Coaster Set

Your DIY floral-pressed coaster set is now ready to use! These coasters make beautiful gifts or a perfect addition to your home. Whether you display them on your coffee table, use them for drinks, or give them away as gifts, they’ll add a unique, personal touch to any space.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh, vibrant flowers for the best results. Dried flowers can lose their color and vibrancy after pressing, so it’s essential to start with fresh blooms.

• Experiment with different flower combinations, colors, and designs to make your coasters truly unique.

• If you are new to resin crafts, consider starting with a small test batch before making a full set of coasters.

• Be patient and allow the resin to fully cure. Rushing this process can lead to tacky or uneven surfaces.

Making a floral-pressed coaster set is a simple and rewarding DIY project that lets you showcase your creativity while adding a touch of nature to your home. Whether you choose to use wildflowers, garden blooms, or even petals from special occasions, these coasters will always remind you of the beauty found in nature.