Step By Step Guide To Making A Resin Keychain With Dried Flowers

Crafting a resin keychain with dried flowers is a beautiful way to preserve nature’s delicate details in a wearable, lasting keepsake. Whether you're creating a sentimental gift, a personal memento, or small handmade items to sell, this project blends artistry with practicality. With the right materials and technique, even beginners can produce professional-looking results. This guide walks you through every stage—preparation, mixing, curing, and finishing—with precision and care.

Selecting and Preparing Your Materials

The foundation of a successful resin keychain lies in using quality components. Each material plays a role in clarity, durability, and visual appeal. Start by gathering everything before beginning to avoid interruptions during the curing process.

• Epoxy resin (preferably jewelry-grade, UV-resistant)
• Dried flowers (small, flat petals work best)
• Silicone keychain molds (with loop attachment)
• Mixing cups and wooden stir sticks
• Pipettes or syringes for precise pouring
• Fine-tipped tweezers
• Disposable gloves and mask
• Parchment paper or silicone mat
• Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher)
• Heat gun or lighter

Tip: Store dried flowers in an airtight container away from light to prevent fading and moisture absorption.

Choose flowers that are fully dehydrated and free of moisture. Popular options include baby's breath, lavender, rose petals, and pansies. Avoid thick or fleshy blooms like tulips—they retain water and may rot inside resin. Press flowers between book pages for 7–10 days or use a flower press for faster drying.

Preparing the Resin: Mixing and Pouring Techniques

Epoxy resin must be mixed precisely to ensure proper curing. Most resins require a 1:1 ratio of resin to hardener, though some formulations differ—always follow manufacturer instructions.

1. Work in a well-ventilated area with a stable surface covered in parchment paper.
2. Put on gloves and a mask to protect your skin and lungs.
3. Measure equal parts resin and hardener into a clean mixing cup.
4. Stir slowly for 3–5 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom to ensure full blending.
5. Let the mixture sit for 1–2 minutes to allow bubbles to rise and pop.

Pour a thin layer of resin into each mold cavity—about one-third full. This base layer prevents air pockets under the flowers and secures them in place. Use a pipette for accuracy, especially with small molds.

Resin Type	Working Time (Pot Life)	Cure Time	Best For
Jewelry Resin	20–30 minutes	12–24 hours	Small crafts, keychains
Deep Pour Resin	45–60 minutes	48–72 hours	Thick layers, doming
UV Resin	3–5 minutes	Instant (with UV light)	Quick repairs, small fixes

Avoid rushing the mix. Under-mixed resin won’t cure properly; over-stirring introduces excess bubbles. If you notice cloudiness or stickiness after 24 hours, the ratio was likely off.

Arranging Dried Flowers with Precision

This step defines the aesthetic of your keychain. The goal is to position the flowers so they appear suspended in space, not flattened or floating awkwardly.

1. Use tweezers to gently place your dried flower into the wet resin layer.
2. Center it carefully and lightly press down to eliminate trapped air.
3. If needed, use a toothpick to nudge petals into place.

Less is more. Overcrowding the mold obscures detail and increases the risk of imperfections. One small bloom or a few sprigs of foliage often make the most elegant design.

Tip: Dip tweezers in isopropyl alcohol and wipe dry before handling flowers—this reduces static and helps release delicate petals.

After placing the flower, wait 15–30 minutes for the resin to slightly thicken (to a honey-like consistency). This prevents the next pour from disturbing the arrangement. Then, slowly add a second layer of resin to fill the mold completely.

“Precision in placement and patience in layering are what separate amateur resin pieces from gallery-worthy ones.” — Lena Torres, Resin Art Instructor at CraftForm Studio

Curing and Finishing Your Keychain

Once poured, let the resin cure undisturbed. Place molds on a level surface, dust-free environment. Cover with a cardboard box to prevent debris from falling in while allowing airflow.

• Most jewelry resins reach initial hardness in 12–24 hours.
• Full cure typically takes 48–72 hours depending on temperature and humidity.
• Avoid moving or touching the piece during this time.

After curing, demold gently by flexing the silicone. If the piece sticks, chill it in the freezer for 10–15 minutes—the resin contracts slightly, making removal easier.

Inspect the surface. Small bubbles or minor imperfections can be addressed:

• Bubbles: Use a heat gun on low setting or pass a lighter briefly over the surface pre-cure to burst them.
• Sticky spots: Indicates uncured resin—likely due to incorrect mixing. Lightly sand and apply a new top coat if necessary.
• Rough edges: Sand with 600–2000 grit wet/dry sandpaper for a smooth finish.

For a glossy, professional shine, buff the surface with a microfiber cloth after sanding. Alternatively, apply a thin final coat of resin or use a jewelry polishing compound.

Mini Case Study: A First-Time Crafter’s Success

Sophie, a hobbyist from Portland, decided to make a keychain using lavender from her grandmother’s garden. She pressed the stems for two weeks, then used a standard jewelry resin kit. Her first attempt failed—she poured too quickly and introduced bubbles. On her second try, she slowed down, stirred methodically, and used a heat gun. The result was crystal-clear, with the purple blooms perfectly suspended. She now sells custom keychains at local markets, each telling a story through preserved flora.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even experienced crafters encounter challenges. Being prepared helps minimize waste and frustration.

Issue	Causes	Solutions
Cloudy resin	Moisture in flowers, cold workspace	Ensure flowers are fully dry; work in room above 70°F (21°C)
Sticky surface	Incorrect mixing ratio, expired resin	Re-measure precisely; check expiration date
Flowers floating or shifting	Pouring too fast, no base layer	Use a thin first layer and wait before adding elements
Bubbles	Over-stirring, trapped air	Stir slowly; use heat gun or lighter post-pour

Tip: Label your molds with masking tape and the pour date to track curing progress.

FAQ

Can I use fresh flowers in resin keychains?

No. Fresh flowers contain moisture that causes rotting, discoloration, and cloudiness. Always use fully dried or preserved botanicals.

How long do resin keychains last?

With UV-resistant resin and proper care, they can last years without yellowing. Avoid prolonged sun exposure to extend lifespan.

Can I resize the design for larger pendants?

Yes, but adjust resin volume accordingly. For thicker pieces, pour in layers (no more than 1/8 inch per layer) to prevent overheating and cracking.

Checklist: Making a Resin Keychain with Dried Flowers

1. Collect all materials: resin, hardener, molds, dried flowers, tools.
2. Prepare workspace: ventilated, clean, level, protected from dust.
3. Measure and mix resin and hardener accurately (follow product ratio).
4. Pour a thin base layer into each mold.
5. Arrange dried flowers using tweezers; secure gently in place.
6. Wait 15–30 minutes for base to tack up.
7. Pour second layer to fill mold completely.
8. Remove bubbles with heat gun or lighter.
9. Cover and cure for 24–72 hours in a dust-free area.
10. Demold carefully and inspect for flaws.
11. Sand or polish if needed for smooth finish.
12. Add metal keyring and enjoy or package for gifting.

Conclusion

Creating a resin keychain with dried flowers is more than a craft—it’s a way to capture moments, honor memories, and express creativity. With attention to detail and a steady hand, anyone can master this technique. The transparency of resin enhances the natural beauty of botanicals, turning fragile blooms into timeless accessories. As you gain confidence, experiment with colorants, glitter, or layered designs to expand your repertoire.

💬 Ready to create your first resin keychain? Gather your materials today and start preserving nature’s elegance in a form you can carry with you. Share your creations online and inspire others to explore the art of resin crafting!