Prepare Your Workspace
Before you begin, ensure you have a clean and well-ventilated area to work. Cover your workspace with a protective sheet or plastic to prevent any mess. Put on your disposable gloves to protect your hands.
Measure and Mix
You can follow your epoxy resin packaging instructions to measure the appropriate amounts of resin and hardener. Typically, you must mix the two components in a 1:1 ratio. I like to use water and mark a clear cup, so I know exactly how much to add. Pour 1/2 cup of water into a clear plastic cup and mark a line with a black Sharpie marker. Now add a second 1/2 cup of water and mark again. This will now tell you where to fill the cup with each epoxy part.
Mixing the resin
Mix the two epoxy parts together in the clear cup using a tongue depressor. You want to mix for 3-4 minutes, and the epoxy is clear and free of any streaks.
Add Googly Eyes
Place your silicone coaster molds on a flat surface. Carefully pour a small amount of the mixed resin into the mold, filling it only 1/3 full. While the resin is still wet, drop in your googly eyes. Arrange them in a fun and random pattern to create unique designs. If you add too much epoxy, they float around, so be very careful when adding the clear epoxy. You can always add more, but you can't take it out.
For better control over the placement of the googly eyes, you can use a toothpick. If you need to reposition the eyes, gently nudge them with the toothpick. Additionally, if you apply a small amount of epoxy to the tip of the toothpick, it becomes easier to pick up and place the eyes precisely where you want them.
Eliminate Air Bubbles
You can use a heat gun to pass over the resin surface gently. This will help remove any trapped air bubbles. Be careful not to overheat and scorch the resin.
Allow to Cure
Follow the curing time indicated on your epoxy resin packaging. Typically, it takes 24-48 hours for the resin to harden and cure thoroughly. Make sure your coasters remain undisturbed during this time.
Mixing the black epoxy
I am using a new clear cup. Add a small amount ( about 1/4 cup) of each epoxy part. Add one small scoop of black pigment and mix for 3-4 minutes.
Pouring black epoxy
Slowly pour the black epoxy over the googly eyes until you reach the mold's top.
Eliminate Air Bubbles Again
You can use a heat gun to pass over the resin surface gently. This will help remove any trapped air bubbles. Be careful not to overheat and scorch the resin.
Allow to Cure
Please follow the curing time shown on your epoxy resin packaging. Typically, it takes 24-48 hours for the resin to harden and cure thoroughly. Make sure your coasters remain undisturbed during this time.
Demold and Finish
Carefully remove the coasters from the silicone molds once the resin has fully cured. Trim any excess resin or imperfections if necessary. Clean the edges with fine-grit sandpaper if desired.
Display and Enjoy
Place your Googly Eye Resin Coasters on your coffee table, dining table, or wherever you want to add a touch of whimsy. These coasters are sure to catch the eyes of your guests and provide a fun and unique conversation piece