DIY Dark Academia Botanical Beetle Shadow Box
Are you drawn to the dark academia aesthetic or intrigued by all things creepy and crawly? If so, you're going to love our botanical beetle box tutorial (and rest assured, every beetle is 100% ethically created using our IOD Specimens Mould 😉).
This video will show you how to craft and paint your beetles to look incredibly lifelike. You'll also learn how to place them in beautiful shadow boxes and encase them with resin for a polished finish.
Although our tutorial video doesn't cover the creation of the shadow boxes, don't worry—we've detailed every step for you right here.
IOD Products Needed:
Other Supplies:
- Cream Chalk Paint*
- Black Chalk Paint*
- Metallic Gold Paint
- Amazing Cast Resin (quick set)
- Clear Cast Resin (48-hour cure)
- Disposable stirring tool (like a popsicle stick)
- Acrylic paint (and possibly other types of paint, based on personal preference)
- Tight bond quick and thick glue
- Exacto Blade
*we used a chalk-type paint in this tutorial, but there are many brands and types of paint, talk to your stockist to learn which one is right for you!
Instructions for the botanical shadow boxes:
Start by acquiring IOD Wood Art Panels from your nearest stockist. For this project, we utilized sizes 8x10 inches and 5x7 inches. Ensure you position them so that you're using the side with the rimmed edge for the shadow box (the opposite side will be completely flat).
1. Begin by painting the recessed inner panel of the shadow box with a light cream color. Allow it to dry.
2. Proceed to paint the inside bevel, frame, sides, and back of the shadow box. Let everything dry thoroughly.
3. Use your Faux Bois Mould and IOD Air Dry Clay to create the decorative frame elements. Cast four large thick bamboo pieces, four thick bamboo corner pieces, three thin bamboo pieces, and four thin bamboo corner pieces.
4. Arrange these bamboo pieces on the edge of your frame. You will need to trim some pieces to ensure a perfect fit (you can use an exacto to segment your pieces where desired). Refer to the provided image for guidance on length adjustments.
5. Adhere to your surface using tight bond quick and thick.
6. Apply gold paint over your wet moulds, painting gently. Painting while wet will minimize cracking. If you have excessive cracking, please refer to our Moulds 101 for tips. .
7. Select branches and leaves from your IOD Fronds Transfer and arrange them into a composition you find pleasing.
8. Once you're satisfied with the placement, use the transfer applicator stick to apply your fronds transfer pieces to the shadow box. (Note: You can seal the wood prior to application if you desire (always make sure it is completely cured before application), but we did not since we will add resin over the top to seal everything in as the final step).
9. Now, your shadow box is ready for the addition of your beetles! For the next steps, please follow along with the video tutorial.
TIP: Leave your project in an undisturbed, dust-free area for 48 hours or more, since this is a thick application. It’s always better to wait too long than not enough when it comes to rein drying. No one wants pesky fingerprints on your beautiful new project!
Grab your IOD products and supplies by using the store locator and finding a stockist near you.
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!
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