How to Make Resin Coasters: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

How to Make Resin Coasters: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Resin coasters are beautiful, durable and completely unique — especially when they’re made with dried flowers. At Sal’s Forever Flowers in Telford, Shropshire, flower-filled resin coasters are one of our most loved products. They hold memories, look stunning in the home and make meaningful gifts.

If you’ve ever wondered how resin coasters are made, here is a straightforward guide to help you understand the process, including materials, safety advice and how to work with flowers inside resin.



What You Need to Make Resin Coasters

Resin work can be expensive, especially if you’re aiming for high-quality results, so investing in the right materials will make a big difference. Here’s a simple list to get you started:

  • Silicone mat
  • PPE (a proper mask, goggles, nitrile gloves and apron)
  • Heat-resistant epoxy resin
  • Mixing cups & stirrers
  • High-quality silicone moulds
  • Optional pigments or colourants
  • Pressed flowers or dried petals
  • A flower press (if pressing your own flowers)

Safety Precautions When Working With Resin

Resin is a chemical product and should always be used safely.
Before you start:

  • Ensure your workspace is well-ventilated
  • Wear all PPE
  • Read the instructions on your chosen resin brand
  • Protect surfaces with a silicone mat

Good safety practice will help prevent skin irritation and ensure you can work comfortably and confidently.

Understanding Resin Ratios

Most resin comes in two parts:

  • Part A – Resin
  • Part B – Hardener

Different brands have different mixing ratios, such as:

  • 1:1
  • 2:1
  • Percentage ratios (e.g., 100:30)
  • Ratio by weight

It’s essential to follow the exact measurements provided by the manufacturer. If the ratio isn’t correct, the resin may never cure.

Mixing Your Resin

Once you’ve measured out both parts:

  1. Pour them into one cup.
  2. Stir slowly and gently for 4–5 minutes.
  3. Avoid whipping the resin — it will trap unnecessary bubbles.
  4. Let the mixed resin sit for a few minutes to de-gas (allow bubbles to rise and pop).

If you’re adding pigments or colourants, mix them in at this stage.

Preparing Your Moulds

While the resin de-gasses:

  • Lay your silicone mat on the table
  • Place your coaster moulds on top
  • Get your pressed flowers or petals ready

A silicone mat will save you from sticky spills, which are very common when pouring resin.

Pouring the Resin & Adding Flowers

When the resin is ready:

  1. Gently pour a thin layer into the mould
  2. Place your flowers or petals into the resin
  3. Ensure the flowers are fully submerged
  4. Pour additional layers if needed to cover them completely

Pressed or dried flowers work best — fresh flowers cannot be used inside resin because they contain moisture.

Curing Time

Most resins take 24–48 hours to cure fully, depending on:

  • The thickness of the piece
  • The brand of resin
  • Room temperature

Leave the moulds undisturbed during this time to avoid fingerprints or dust settling on the surface.

Once fully cured, gently demould your coasters — they should be clear, glossy and ready to use.

Enjoy Your Finished Resin Coasters

And that’s it — a simple, beginner-friendly guide to making resin coasters. Whether you’re adding delicate pressed flowers, colour swirls or gold flakes, resin coasters are a beautiful way to get creative.

If you’d rather purchase professionally made resin coasters with preserved flowers, you can explore our collection here at Sal’s Forever Flowers — each piece is handmade with care and designed to last.

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