Oncidium; Degarmoara Jay Yamada

How to coat Orchids in resin

The first step is to delicately dry the orchid or other flower in silica gel.  It must be carefully done so as not to deform the shape of the flower.  After a few days buried in the dessicant, the flower is ever so carefully removed and dry brushed to remove any silica dust that might be clinging on.

At this point the Orchid is sealed with a craft glue.  Sometimes two layers is required to seal the entire flower. These must be allowed to completely dry, between, and after before proceeding to the next step.

Next, two-part resin is mixed in equal amounts and mixed thoroughly.  This is painted on with a small brush and allowed to dry.  Many layers are applied to achieve a strong coating.  They are stored in a dust free, drying environment, or wiped off between layers.

An Orchid like the one shown can require as many as 20 layers of resin!  My wife makes these to order into necklaceses and other jewlery items.  Prices start around $60.  The waiting list is very short at the moment, but that may change.  Email me for details if interested.