Tutorial: Cabochons

It's been awhile since I've posted anything....life gets in the way sometimes! Work, housework, time with the kiddos, and of course, crafting time! I opt to forego a few hours of sleep most days to satisfy my need for making something.Crazy? Maybe. Fun? Absolutely! :-)

Okay, now for the good stuff. Cabochons. I started seeing them everywhere....blogs, etsy....they seem to be quite popular. I, of course, just *had* to try and make them. I looked for a tutorial, and had no luck in finding one, soooooo, I decided to wing it, and this is what I came up with:

Materials needed:
Resin & Hardener - I used Easy Cast Clear Casting Epoxy (can be found here)
Mixing/Measuring Cups
Something to Stir with - I used small craft sticks...kind of look like toothpicks, but longer and wider on one end
Molds - I got mine on Etsy
Color Pigment - found here

Now that you have your materials gathered, let the fun begin! The Clear Casting Epoxy is an easy 1 to 1 ratio for mixing.


Easy Cast is a low odor resin, but it's still nice to have some fresh air while doing this, if the option is available.

 Mix your resin & hardener, and then add your color pigment. I've found that if you mix it nice and slow, you don't have to deal with as many air bubbles after you pour it into your molds.

Once it is all mixed up (be sure and scrape the bottom to make sure it is blended well), pour it into your molds. Keep a piece of paper towel handy to wipe up any spills.



Use the small end of the stirrer to remove any air bubbles that form on the surface.



Now you can step back and admire your handiwork. Use the paper towel to wipe out any excess resin mix from your cup so it can be re-used. Wait at least 12 hours to make sure it has time to set. I must admit, it is very exciting when you lightly touch it to check, and it's completely dry. Popping them out of the molds is so satisfying!

There is a lot you can do with your cabochons. So far I've made pendants and rings. The possibilities are numerous. Have fun with it!!

~ Thanks for stopping by! ~

Jaime

Come join in the fun at these fabulous parties!!