Let’s make a grocery list of the stuff needed. Now, this isn’t the list of all possibilities, but it will get you started and from there you can branch off into many different directions creatively. Make sure you have everything you need before beginning. Ok, here we go.

-Resin: Epoxy resin is the most common resin used in the creative world because its easy to work with at home in a well ventilated area, and no extra special equipment is needed. It has a lower toxicity than, say, a polyester resin, and because it has a shallow setting depth is perfect for casting small stuff like pendants and components. Making smaller pieces means it will cure quicker, too.
-Pigments and dyes: These are optional but can give you many more design options. They come in liquid, paste or powder, and when buying them make sure they’re compatible with the brand of resin you have.
-Molds: This is where it starts to get fun. Tons of stuff can be used for molds. You can pop your resin out of the mold afterwards, or you can fill a mold, like a bottle cap for instance, and leave it as is. There are specific molds that are made for resin casting in a variety of shapes and styles. But you’re not limited to them. Try using some stuff around your home, like ice cube trays or chocolate box liners. Pretty much anything that’s heatproof can be used. Latex molds are available at most craft stores and your resin can be popped out of them easily. Finding components are available where you just pour the resin in and let it cure, and voila! Instant pendant! Don’t be afraid to experiment with items. Even a plastic spoon would give a cool shape. As you experiment, remember that when using latex molds you may need to mix a bit more hardener into the resin recipe because latex can effect the temperature of the resin and it may not cure properly.
-Mold release: You can buy a fancy mold release, but vegetable cooking spray works great. Just spray your mold and then wipe out gently. Mold release is only used if you’re going to pop your resin out of the mold.
-Plastic bowls and spoons: You’ll need some disposable containers and spoons for the mixing process. A measuring cup is needed for precise measuring, and it will not be food friendly again. Make sure you have separate tools for the resin and the hardener.
-Items to imbed into your resin: Here is where it gets more fun! You can put items into your designs to make them original and unique. And the list is pretty much endless! Sprinkles, candy, flowers, 4 leaf clovers, bugs, pictures, Scrabble pieces, fabric, feathers, food, glitter, coins, sequins, charms, stones, leaves, shells, stickers, sand, spices, seed beads, or anything tiny! Once imbedded into the resin its trapped forever. Food gets sealed in without air so it won’t spoil. You can also use photos and images. Be sure to spray the image with a sealer, such as a varnish to prevent the inks or dyes from running into the resin. Make sure the sealer is completely dry before incorporating it into a resin piece.
-A well ventilated and equipped work space: A table, chair and adequate light are essential for you to be comfortable with good visibility. Cover a bare table with a plastic backed tablecloth to protect its surface if you wish. This space should be kept away from small children and animals for their safety.
-Latex gloves: To protect your hands.
-Popsicle sticks: work great for stirring and are disposable.

Let's Get Started!

First and foremost… always use the exact directions of the manufacturer of your resin. To get the best results in your project, and also for your safety, make sure you read all directions before starting. Resin has to be mixed in EXACT and PRECISE measurements in order for it to work. You’ll know if it isn’t done correctly because it won’t cure or harden. You have to expect that potentially a few pieces won’t come out right. Its fun to experiment and see what you can do. Its smart to begin with something simple.

Step by Step

Choose your mold and if you’re using silicone, spray it with release. Next, decide if you’re going to embed something into your pendant and place it into the mold how you’d like it. If your fingers are too huge, then try a pair of tweezers. Happy with what you’ve got? Ok. Now its time to mix resin. Follow the manufacturers directions exactly. Be sure not to over-mix it or it will fill up with too many air bubbles. If you’re going to add dye to the piece, now is the time to do it. Before you pour it into your mold or finding, let it rest for a bit. This will let air bubbles come to the surface where you can deal with them better. Carefully pour the resin into your mold until it reaches the height you want.

Bubble, bubble...toil and trouble!

You can tap our air bubbles carefully, or use a drinking straw to gently blow them out. Don’t submerge the straw into the resin. Just blow on the surface and bubbles will move.

Cured!

Now its time to cure your piece. For a piece that is about 1/2 inch thick it will take about 72 hours for a hard cure. Make sure the room temperature in your work area is between 70-85 degrees. Once its cured you can release it from the mold. From here, you can drill it, wire wrap it, glue it...whatever you want! Many options!

Whether you were interested in giving resin a shot or just curious about how it generally worked, well… now you know. :-) I encourage you to look more into resin because I’m not an expert and this is just the tip of the iceberg for possibilities.

Resources:
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5264823
http://www.iamangelchaser.com/products/tears_of_the_rain_forest/pendant_clear_front_view.jpg
http://www.ecplaza.net/tradeleads/seller/4574288/sell_artificial_jewelleryinsect.html#none  http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6326728
http://www.craftbits.com/viewProject.do?projectID=2095

“I have studied my bead collection. I am familiar with what I have, so I can always be looking for what I don’t. I collect by filling in the holes of my collection.” ~Stephanie Sersich