**A Guide to Creating Pressed Flower Phone Cases**
For that special touch, let's get creative with pressed flowers and make some beautiful phone cases. First, we'll talk about how to press flowers in the microwave.
To start, gather your flowers and place them between two sheets of paper towels. You can also use a flower press or a heavy book to flatten the flowers. Next, microwave the flowers in 30-second increments until they are flat and dry. It's essential to check on the flowers regularly to avoid overcooking, which can cause them to become brittle.
If you're new to pressing flowers, it's best to start with simple options like rose petals and daisies. For a more complex design, you can use a variety of flowers in different colors and shapes. To begin, clean the phone case with an alcohol wipe to remove any oils or fingerprints. This will ensure that your flowers adhere properly to the surface.
Now, let's talk about designing our phone cases. You can start by laying out your design on paper or using a stencil to create a more intricate pattern. Next, use clear permanent adhesive to tack the flowers down onto the case. Make sure to leave some space between each flower for a professional look. If you're using small flowers, you may want to use tweezers to hold them in place.
For this project, I'll be creating four different phone cases with unique designs. The first one features a colorful collection of leaves and petals, which I gathered from my garden. You can also find flower vendors at your local farmer's market that offer a variety of blooms in different colors. To add some extra details to the design, you can use tweezers to arrange the flowers precisely.
To create the next phone case, I'll be using a large purple stock flower, which can be found in most grocery store floral sections. Simply trim the stem so it lines up with the edge of the case and add some glue to secure it. For this design, I'm going for a more classic look by adding some pressed cedar as trees and a tiny daisy as the sun.
For the final two phone cases, I'll be creating a camp scene inspired by artwork from the ladies at Studio Sister Golden. To start, I'll trace a piece of black cardstock onto the bottom of the phone case to create the base of the landscape. Next, I'll add some pressed cedar as trees and cut out a red flower petal into a triangle to create the tent. A yellow petal folded in half will serve as the center of the tent, adding a cute touch.
To complete these designs, I'll be using clear resin (also known as epoxy) to seal the flowers and give them a glossy finish. To mix the resin, you'll need two parts, which can vary depending on the specific kit you're using. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully, as mixing too much or too little resin can affect the final result.
Once you've mixed the resin, it's time to pour it onto the phone case. Start by pouring small dollops of resin into the middle of the case and working your way outwards towards the edges. Be careful not to overfill the case, as this can cause the resin to overflow.
After pouring the resin, let it dry for about 40 minutes. You may see some bubbles rise to the surface, which you can gently pop with a toothpick. Once the resin is dry, it will take several hours to fully harden, so be patient and give it plenty of time.
**Tips and Variations**
One thing to keep in mind when working with pressed flowers is that they may not be suitable for all phone cases. Make sure to choose a case that has a smooth surface, as this will help the resin adhere properly. You can also experiment with different shapes and sizes of flowers to create unique designs.
If you're feeling adventurous, try using other materials like leaves, branches, or even fabric scraps to add texture and interest to your phone cases. Just remember to use clear adhesive and sealant to protect the materials from damage.
Another great way to customize your phone case is by adding a personal message or name. You can do this by hand-painting or using a permanent marker. This adds an extra touch of personality to your design and makes it truly one-of-a-kind.
**Conclusion**
Creating pressed flower phone cases is a fun and creative project that allows you to express yourself and showcase your unique style. With the right materials and techniques, you can create beautiful designs that are both functional and visually stunning. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just starting out, we hope this guide has inspired you to try something new and exciting with pressed flowers. Happy crafting!