Casting Epoxy Resin in a Silicone Mold

My first time using a resin mold and I’m sharing the experience with you! Casting epoxy resin in silicone can be a little tricky at first because there are a few things to really watch out for, but I'll share with you the step-by-step resin layering process as well as all my casting materials.
Since I already had collected and pressed plenty of lovely ferns and leaves, I decided to mainly focus on casting the resin with dried plants, which is one of my favorite ways to accent my 3D layered resin paintings in general anyway. Using this resin mold for some of the extras was just a bonus in every way!
Because you know me.. if I can ever find an excuse to collect and dry more ferns I am more than happy to do so!
I hope you enjoy learning about how to use a resin mold today, I was really delightfully surprised at just how easy and straightforward it turned out to be:)
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[@chercrum22]

Thank you for being real and showing your first time. I think I am as nervous as you were. I feel better now just jumping in and trying.

[@rismatanaka5267]

THANK YOU FOR EXPLAINING YOUR MISTAKES AND EXPERIENCES!! Sooooooooo many people aren't transparent and those are the real teaching moments. I'm coming to your channel first from now on. Exactly the teaching method I love and use

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Thank you so much! I agree, seeing what doesn't work can sometimes be as helpful as seeing what does!

[@diannef315]

I love that you are willing to "experiment." I am waiting for all my supplies to arrive and learned a lot from you ahead of time.

[@hannahquinteroart]

The resin pieces turned out so beautiful! I had always wondered how resin pieces were made. The pouring and arranging step looks therapeutic in itself!

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Thanks Hannah, it really is:):) I adore my lil dried ferns and am super glad to have new ways to use them creatively!

[@Nina-mr9mu]

Thank you for this, I'm a total beginner with lots of ideas but looking for ways to do my projects, this is the best tutorial I've found, it's easy to follow, Caleigh seems great, the sort of person you'd actually like as a friend and she shows the blibs and possible problems too...

[@CaleighBirdArt]

aw thank you for such a sweet comment on me and the video. I just try to be my real, relatively unfiltered self 😋💜

[@kaminiraghavan4345]

Thanks for this very helpful video as I start my resin journey. By the way, the Bodhi leaf is actually the leaf from the fig tree Ficus Religiosa, but the tree Buddha sat under was in Bodh Gaya India, hence its now called the Bodhi tree :)

[@andreaayling1739]

Thanks so much for this video. I’m a complete beginner, so it’s great to see some of the pit-falls to avoid. Your creations are gorgeous!

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Thanks so much! It's really a fun medium - you're going to love it!

[@pmills524]

This was super helpful. Thanks for the experimentation and you have a beautiful way of explaining things.

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Thank you so much! I’m so glad you found it helpful, glad my tutorials are nice and clear😊😊

[@Lovelypennyplusthree]

Yeay!! I’m going to start a epoxy journey. Ty for sharing, all of this info is gold!!

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Woop woop! Enjoy!

[@lydiaalderman9864]

Wow your mix media is insane so talented!!

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate it :)

[@JLSGuitars]

Cool. I build electric guitars. These guitars have a piece called a pickguard. I just woke up with this idea today to pour clear resin pickguards with feathers, flowers etc...... Thanks for sharing your Art!

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Very cool! That's gonna look supa dope :D

[@stephaniedecanter8548]

I love this

[@jlynngambler]

So cool, thanks for this great video!

[@Tuda217]

Love your authenticity! These pieces are beautiful to showcase in a home! Maybe if you warmed up the resin before mixing and pouring it will leave less micro bubbles? 🤷🏽‍♂️ Either way, it still looks beautiful & a few bubbles gives it character, I think 😁💜

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Thank you so much!! Yeah I've learned to be cool with a few bubbles here and there. I like the idea about heating it slightly but unfortunately that would start the chemical process prematurely which would cause the two components not to mix properly. Interestingly enough, the mixture starts to warm itself as it sets as a chemical reaction you can literally feel!

[@teekotrain6845]

this was a great documentation of an experiment and I'm actually performing the same thing right now but with an ashtray mold I plan to just cut or sand off the piece that will be excess from the recess chunk taken out of the mold it's small and I think it will be easy to fix and worth keeping the mold for a while. also the imperfections around the edges you could probably easily cover with some gold or silver paint

[@CaleighBirdArt]

That's true! The small imperfections at the edges are hardly noticeable and since I made this vid I have actually seen other resin artists lightly sand their creations when needed too. Gold or silver paint would create a really nice border edge too!

[@Kill.Bill7.62]

Thank u so much for this I learned alot

[@michgo4226]

My first resin mold were hearts. When I used the cooking torch to get rid of the bubbles I guess the resin ended up fusing to the mold and I cannot get them out I've tried boiling some hot water, freezing them. My next one I will use 91% alcohol and put it in a spray bottle and spray the bubbles OR mix everything in one chosen flat mold and let it sit for a few minutes to see what bubbles come out and then I can use my torch to get the rest out and then take that and pour into the mold I'm going to use. So I will have that one mold just for being able to use the torch while the resin is still liquidy

[@gregpasacrita3129]

Thank you for this tutorial video!

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for being here:)

[@RiMind]

Thank you from over the pond

[@mfg2324]

Wow, that's amazing!

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@BE5TFRIEND]

Great Video! Thanks 🙏🏻

[@suegardiner3677]

So enjoyed learning just starting something new thank you

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Yay glad to hear it!

[@statesrights01]

Your honesty is so awesome, your vid is easy to understand and simple... Loved it. getting a sub and like. Thanks :D

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate hearing that:):):)

[@mikaelakyleyvanoff2760]

So helpful! Thanks for the video.

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Glad it was helpful!

[@leahpaige959]

Can u uses a blow drier for the bubbles?

[@meganlance7811]

Thanks! So helpful

[@CaleighBirdArt]

yay glad to hear it:)

[@OregonDARRYL]

Have you tried any kind of release agent like Pam or something you can wipe on the mold to help release the resin?

[@cr4zym3x1c4n]

I’m actually trying to use this to make some carbon fiber molds thanks for the video

[@CaleighBirdArt]

How interesting! I don't know anything about carbon fiber, hope your project goes well! Glad I could help:)

[@pamdortch8704]

Very pretty!

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Thank you! I'm just thrilled whenever I can make fern art:):)

[@MichaelGallagherSculpting]

5:37 Loved your Acceptance speech…. Millions of bubbles

[@CaleighBirdArt]

😆😆 sometimes you gotta just go with it

[@raphaellebeauregard5657]

This is exactly what I've been looking for! I'm thinking of making tiles this way to use as a backsplash in our van build since I think they wouldn't crack and break off. What can you mix in to add colors? My vision is a translucent blueish sea glass effect, if you have ideas on how to achieve that I'd love to hear about it!!

[@CaleighBirdArt]

I actually don;'t mix in colors for mine. I would just search out 'seaglass resin technique' or something like that. Glad I could help with the mold part though!

[@TheCyvette21]

Thank you for this ! ❤️

[@CaleighBirdArt]

I’m so glad I could help! I couldn’t believe how easy the whole process is myself!

[@CaleighBirdArt]

I’m so glad I could help! I couldn’t believe how easy the whole process is myself!

[@anncollins6239]

Questions- Do we press and dry green magnolia type leaves or that is not necessary?(im only using half the piece) Will tiny wood pieces work in place of flowers?For example, I have a 1-2mm wooden heart approximately 2” wide. Surely I could encase it in resin? Would the blow torch/heat gun burn it? So I use both a heat gun and blow torch for how many minutes each?

[@lynnevanakin7798]

Could I put a flat cross stitched / embroidered piece into a resin mold?

[@rockhound7147]

I know you did this 2 years ago, but just wondering if you know you can buy small motorized mixers to get all the bubbles out beforehand, keeping you from having to use heat and flame.

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Oooh good to know! Thanks for the tip!

[@NusratJahan-lb4fg]

So nice sis

[@CaleighBirdArt]

thanks :)

[@johncalleja7856]

every time I pour using one of these small epoxy reusable forms I get a raised lip around the edges on my piece when I pull the form off. How do you keep this from happening? Your example didn't show this .

[@CaleighBirdArt]

I haven’t really run into that problem too much, although I have seen other resin artist talk about sanding the edges of theirs. I think you can start off with a bit of a rough grade and go down to a super ultrafine and still be able to retain a nice smooth field on the corner. Hope that helps, happy pouring!

[@chulasexychica11]

Has anyone tried to use these as backsplash tiles?

[@stephaniedecanter8548]

How do you dry the leaves 🍂 out?

[@dashamikhailytcheva1345]

Hi, beautiful pieces! Question, with the art resin, did you to 1-1 mixture and did your pieces turn out soft and bendy or hard? I tried to make a comb with a mold and it turned out too bendy, to use it I keep it in the fridge lol hoping I can use the resin I have and not have it turn out bendy

[@jeffreytgilbert]

N95 is for particles. It’s not for chemical fumes. You should be using a P100 if you’re working with chemicals, which is equivalent to N95 for particulates but 100% for chemicals

[@CaleighBirdArt]

thank you! I didn't know the difference!

[@rupinderkaur565]

So beautiful art mam. Please tell me wears parched this mold plate ?? .help me please 🌹🌹

[@Jesse_2022]

Hello, great video. But I was wondering, how did you manage to not burn the leaves, that you placed in the resin, with the blowtorch? Asking because I am interested in doing something similar, but am worried about burning the leaves.

[@CaleighBirdArt]

If the leaves are covered in resin they won't burn. You just have to go around any leaves that are sticking up from the resin in between coats:)

[@alkamohapatra5226]

Hi ! I have a question. If I'm using those earring moulds that have a hole making thingy in it. Do i have to use a release agent or is it fine if i just pour the resin in it just like that? Without a pre coating of any kind.

[@CaleighBirdArt]

I have never used a release agent and mine have come out fine. I think as the mold gets used more it may get tiny scuffs or tears that make the agent more necessary. I also haven't made earrings so your results may vary.

[@beetlesbum869]

Hello, a year later! In the first you said the first layer was completely cured i think before gluing the second leaf set? And there's no issue with them binding together or obvious differences between the two? No seams? Hopefully making sense! Thanks for the video!

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Yep, first layer was completely cured before gluing the leaf and pouring again. I have done multiple layers on basically ever piece I have made and don't ever see a seem or separation in that place. I have heard people say that they sand the resin in between layers but I never do and they dry perfectly clear, you can't tell at all where one layer starts and the other begins :)

[@NoName-jv5po]

Which is better....Art resin or Casting resin?

[@CaleighBirdArt]

I've had the best success with Art Resin. Even though it's pretty pricey, the consistent success has been worth it.

[@annap1385]

how do you make an oversized mold like a 50"x80" do you think is it possible

[@CaleighBirdArt]

I'm sure it is but I have never tried making my own mold. Keep looking around YT. there are lots of people that have. Sorry I couldn't help!

[@gudysuman9704]

Very nice

[@CaleighBirdArt]

So nice of you to say:)

[@gudysuman9704]

@@CaleighBirdArt 🌹🌹

[@barbee42]

Do you have instructions on using a silicone frame mold, this one is rectangular with stand mold at the bottom, all in one piece I’m confused how to pour into the stand part, can you help? Or anyone answer this question, please thank you

[@CaleighBirdArt]

I haven't used a mold that's that deep so unfortunately I don't have any tips for you. It sounds like it may have to be done in layers?

[@kelvintowns5217]

Does it matter the type of resin you use depending on the depth of the mold?

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Yes! Some resin is called 'deep pour' and you can use it in larger molds but most of it must be poured in small layers. You'll need to read the directions and guidelines carefully for each brand you use.

[@melissashute3575]

You didn’t let the resin sit before mixing the Gardner and you mixed it too fast hence all the bubble

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Good to know, thanks!

[@DeniseMasters]

Do you spray your mold before pouring in the resin?

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Nope and it seemed to work just fine

[@shiftangles]

Just so everyone knows an N95 mask will not protect you against chemical fumes. You need a face respirator with the correct cartridge for the type of volatile organic chemicals (VOC's) produced from the epoxy resin. Refer to the safety data sheet (SDS) of the product and always work in a well ventilated area.

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Thanks for educating me!

[@shiftangles]

@@CaleighBirdArt My pleasure! I think its a common misconception that N95 masks will protect against vapours but they should only be used for particulates like dust. 3M has some great products for all types of chemicals like epoxies.

[@CaleighBirdArt]

@@shiftangles Good to know! I'll have to get one for myself:)

[@dhrubapatgiri3986]

Amazing ,maam is it safe to use resin at home

[@CaleighBirdArt]

In a well ventilated space it is. I also recommend using a breathing filter too :)

[@texasangel517]

Thanks so much for your video. Its a shame no directions came with the molds to explain how to remove etc etc

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Yeah it seems like nothing comes with instructions nowadays. They all just figure we'll look it up online I guess. Glad I could help!!

[@texasangel517]

My edges felt kinda sharp, can I sand it smooth

[@ronburgundy9979]

How long does that brand take to dry?

[@CaleighBirdArt]

8 hours to pour a second layer and 24 hours to cure. It's great!

[@FOOTBALL_PYTHONS]

Wow super ilove it

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Thank you! So glad you found it useful:)

[@fowzeeyafowzi6568]

Where can I get the resin

[@CaleighBirdArt]

I usually have to order it online. Art resin is a good brand although they are expensive. There’s some other companies out there but that’s the one I recommend the most. You’ll probably just have to Google it to see who delivers to your area

[@fowzeeyafowzi6568]

@@CaleighBirdArt thank you so much🤗

[@tionnadamani9971]

What is the name of the mold you used? How do i order

[@CaleighBirdArt]

I got mine from ebay, here is the listing: www.ebay.com/itm/1PC-Silicone-Square-Mold-Polymer-Clay-Resin-Casting-Craft-Jewelry-Making-Mould/174123083311?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&var=473005730619&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649 But if you just look up any silicone mold it will work just fine:)

[@beatlebug7]

Love the different uses and willingness to make errors! But wear gloves you make me worry lol

[@beatlebug7]

...... still watching the video and you found gloves :D cant wait to watch more of your channel!

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Ha! I know, I wasn't thinking then. Now I always use tho!!

[@billystalk]

May I ask why your not wearing gloves when using resin?

[@bluebeast440]

This comment is a year late, but you can cast molten aluminum in silicone if that help any nervousness about using too much heat :)

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Interesting! I never would have thought of that!

[@bluebeast440]

@@CaleighBirdArt I should remark that there is different types of silicone, some more specialized, but in general silicone can handle a lot of heat. I know you won't sit on one spot with a torch, so you'll be fine anyway. The epoxy will burn before the silicone will :) But I would be nervous too. It's not natural to think a torch will be safe on something that looks like flexible plastic LoL. - If you have a scrap mould, maybe do some tests with it and a torch to see what it's limits are. It's likely you'll never come close to those limits in the normal course of getting rid of bubbles in resin :) Love your work!

[@jackcooper4]

How do you not wear gloves !!

[@CaleighBirdArt]

I hear ya, I do now!

[@iamgodd9538]

Uh oh! Female voice which means blah blah blah. I'm out.

[@CaleighBirdArt]

Thank goodness, because you’re definitely not welcome here!

[@CHEROKEEBELLIC]

why don't you show using the blow torch?