Every month Kathy Cano-Murillo, a.k.a. The Crafty Chica, dishes crafty tips and tricks in La Vida Crafty on Jackalope Ranch.
You know you are an obsessive crafter when it hurts to throw things away. Straws, chopsticks, gum ball toys, old purses -- anything. One of my favorite crafts is working with two-part resin. I'm always looking for fun things to embed in it.
So when I came across crushed pepper packets while cleaning the kitchen recently, I knew what my next project would be! Crushed pepper resin charms!
See also: Bienvenidos a La Vida Crafty Resin is fun to work with because there are so many variations. Many people are scared of it because of the mixing of the components. Bust that fear -- it's really easy!
Supplies: Two-part resin (found at the craft store) Crushed peppers Silicone mold/ice cube trays (found at the dollar store) Plastic cup, chopstick, straw Wax paper Glitter High-gloss varnish
Items you could substitute for crushed peppers: Small candies, gold foil flakes, sand, small beads, etc.
Resin tips: Always measure exactly what the directions call for. Mix thoroughly.
1. Work on a flat piece of cardboard and tape down a piece of wax paper. Follow the directions on the package of resin. I use a brand that requires equal parts. Pour a capful of Part A in a small cup. Use a chopstick to scrape out every last drop from the lid. Then repeat for Part B. Stir vigorously for about a minute. It's okay if there are bubbles, they will pop.
2. Now add your crushed pepper (don't get it in your eyes!) to the resin in the cup and mix.
3. You do not have to treat the mold beforehand, just make sure it is free of dust. Pour a thin layer of the resin and pepper mixture into the mold. Let this set for an hour before going on to the next step.
4. Pour another round of resin in a new cup, mix thoroughly. This time, add some glitter and stir. Pour a thin layer on top of the pepper mold areas. This will give your charms a nice backing.
5. Let set overnight. Remove from mold. They will pop out nice and clean. Take them outside and spray a coat of high gloss varnish to make them nice and clear and bright!
6. Use a handheld rotary tool to crease a hole and add wire for hanging. You could also glue a bail on the back instead of making a hole.
You can make a charm bracelet or use them in collage art or jewelry. You can make super thin charms by pouring less in the molds. You can even spread out the resin on the wax paper, let set overnight and peel it off in a sheet the next day. Cut into desired shapes.
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