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How to Make Insect Models With Resin

Some insect specimens are so beautiful you want to keep them forever. Whether it is for educational purposes, or just to enjoy the wonder of nature, casting insects in resin molds allows the specimen to be preserved, admired and studied in any setting. With supplies easily found at arts and crafts stores, resin-making is a fun activity to do at home, and worth the effort.

Things You'll Need

Insect specimen
Resin casting mold
Resin epoxy
Resin mold release
Tweezers
Newspaper
Craft stick
Paper cup

Instructions

- 1
  Lay down newspaper to protect your work surface.
- 2
  Choose your mold for casting. The mold should be significantly larger than the insect specimen so that the insect's body and legs fit with ample space around them.
- 3
  Coat the inside of the mold with resin mold release.
- 4
  Mix together the craft resin and the resin epoxy in the paper cup using a craft stick. Follow the directions for the product for specific proportions.
- 5
  Fill the resin mold halfway with the mixed resin and resin epoxy. Use the craft stick to aid in directing the flow of resin. Let the resin harden for two minutes.
- 6
  Pick up the insect specimen gently using the tweezers. The back of the insect or wings are most commonly displayed, so place the insect wings down into the half-filled mold.
- 7
  Gently pour resin mixture to cover the insect and fill the mold. Follow the instructions of the product for details on how long to allow the resin to harden, usually about 72 hours. When it is completely hardened, pop it out of the mold.

Insects & Science