This project is only suitable for young children working under the immediate supervision of an adult. One of the major supplies is two-part epoxy resin, which are irritating to the skin and eyes when it is in liquid form. Once dry, most two-part resins are nontoxic. Always read the Material Safety Data Sheet that comes with the resin to make sure.
The two-part epoxy resin is ideal for this project because it combines a liquid hardener that when added to the liquid resin is very easy to pour into bezels.
Resin Bezel Pendent Supply List
- Bezel with a link so it can be hung from a necklace chain. The bezel should have a closed back to hold the resin.
- Pictures or images in the correct size to put in the bezel. Use pictures of children or other images that have special meaning. For example, if the lady in question loves flowers use flower images that are cut out from greeting cards or magazines.
- Two-part epoxy resin, plastic cup and a wooden stick to mix it.
- Necklace chain to hang the bezel. Make sure the bezel link opening is large enough to slip onto the chain past the clasp.
Instructions:
- Measure the inside of the bezel and cut the picture to fit. Place the image in the bezel, facing up.
- Mix the two-part resin following the manufacturer’s instructions
- Carefully pour the resin into the bezel until the resin slightly domes over the top of the bezel. If the image starts to float, use a straight pin to push it back down in place.
- Allow the resin to dry according to the manufacturer’s directions. Don’t touch it during the drying process to see ‘if it’s dry’. A fingerprint will mar the surface of the resin.
Purchase Instead of DIY
Not crafty or just don't have the time to make a pendant? The image on this page is courtesy of Dawn Ferguson, owner of Dawn's Designs. Check out her website for instructions on how to have a beautiful photo pendant, keychain, beaded necklace or cuff bracelet made to order.
Modifying the DIY Instructions
If the bezels have links on either side, they can be joined together with jump rings to make a bracelet. Attach a clasp at both ends with jump rings to complete the bracelet.
If it is difficult to find linked bezels with a closed back, use sturdy clear packing tape to create a back. Cut a piece of packing tape larger than the bezel and place the bezel face up on the packing tape. Make sure the packing tape is really stuck in place. Pour a thin layer of resin, allow to harden, then place the image in the bezel. Complete from step 3 above. Remove the packing tape when finished.
If the crafter wants to attach multiple bezels to one chain (creating a photo bezel charm necklace), buy a necklace with large links. Then attach each bezel to a link of the chain with a jump ring.
Finding the Supplies
All of the required supplies should be available at any arts and crafts store like Michaels or JoAnn Fabrics. The bezels can also be purchased online from Rio Grande. Two-part resin is also available at all hardward stores.
Maire Loughran - Maire Loughran was born and raised in Rhode Island, the costume jewelry capital of the world. She learned the art of jewelry making at the ...
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