You know that sweet shift that happens as the seasons change? The air feels softer, time slows just a touch, and suddenly we’re reminded to savor the simple moments again. Even in our busiest seasons, it’s good for the soul to carve out a little time to play; to try something new, just because it makes you smile. ❤️

We’ve had many Creative Tribe friends asking about how to use resin with IOD products, and let us tell you… this one’s a delight! Today, we’re upcycling a set of ceramic coasters with Figgy & Flourish and Partridge Lane, finished with a glossy layer of UV resin.

If you’ve ever felt nervous to try something new (we’ve all been there!), this project is perfect. It’s beginner-friendly and makes the most darling handmade gifts or elegant small decor for the holidays.

Grab your IOD Transfers from your local or online stockist, slip into your coziest sweater, pour yourself something warm, and let’s make something beautiful!

IOD Products Needed: 

• Figgy & Flourish Gilded Transfer
• Partridge Lane Transfer

Other Supplies: 

• UV Resin
• Green Ceramic Coasters
• White Ceramic Coasters

Step-by-Step Guide

STEP ONE: APPLY GILDED TRANSFERS & TRANSFERS

We’re starting with unfinished ceramic coasters — one set in white and another in a rich forest green. For the green set, we’ll be using the gleaming vintage labels from our Figgy & Flourish Gilded Transfer.

Cut out four of your favorites and center each one within the 4" round coaster. Apply as usual, keeping the imagery toward the top of the coaster (we’ll explain why in just a bit 😉). Be sure to burnish well! If any areas aren’t fully adhered, resin can sneak underneath and cause bubbling.

Repeat this process using Partridge Lane. 

STEP TWO: APPLY THE RESIN

If you want to speed things up and still get gorgeous results, try using UV resin. Swirl on a generous amount, almost like you’re frosting a cookie or cupcake, then use a small tool or popsicle stick to smooth it evenly across the surface.

Try to keep the resin from running over the edges. UV light doesn’t reach those areas as easily, which can leave them a bit tacky. Not a big deal, though! You can fix it by curing the edges with a pen light, rotating them under your UV lamp in short sessions, or simply wiping with a bit of rubbing alcohol.

Whatever method you choose, make sure you’ve fully cured the main surface first. We set our lamp to 150 seconds (about 3 minutes), and the finish turned out smooth, hard, and non-tacky.

If you’d rather use clear casting resin, the process is exactly the same as in our other coaster tutorial. Resin looks absolutely beautiful over IOD transfers, as long as they’re fully adhered.

Repeat for each of your coasters. You can work on prepping the next one while the other cures, and get a little assembly line going.

Just be sure to elevate your coasters so the resin can drip freely overnight. Trust us… don’t set them on cardboard unless you want to spend the next morning chiseling them loose (ask us how we know 😅).

STEP THREE: APPLY CORK BACKING

Last step, apply the cork backings that came with the coaster kit.

How darling would these be as ornaments? Just glue on a little jewelry bail, tie a ribbon, and they’ll glisten beautifully among the pine branches. 🥰

If you're just kicking off your creative journey, have no fear — our Product 101 pages are packed with straightforward techniques to set you up for success. We're thrilled to accompany you as you explore and create. For more how-tos and creative inspo, make sure to browse through the rest of our blog.

Once you've crafted your final piece, share it with our Facebook Creative Tribe! This community is not just a showcase but also a supportive hub for when you hit those creative roadblocks. And remember, your local stockist is always ready to assist with IOD supplies and expert advice. We're excited to see what you'll bring to life!