For this project, we paired the delicate details of our Vintage Brooches Mould with the sweetest little gems from the Millot’s Pages Transfer. We used mushrooms, cherries, butterflies, and blooms that look like they came from a Victorian storybook. A soft coat of chalk-type paint, a touch of gilding, and dark wax bring out every last bit of vintage charm.

While these petite beauties make darling jewelry, we can’t help but imagine them nestled into a shadow box or even re-imagined as Christmas ornaments. It’s such a lovely way to take your jewelry crafting beyond earrings and bracelets and into heirloom keepsakes. 🥰

Grab your favorite IOD supplies from your local or online stockist and let’s make something beautiful together. 🍂

IOD Products Needed: 

• Vintage Brooches Mould
• Millot’s Pages Transfer

Other Supplies: 

• Sealer (we used Krylon Matte spray sealer)
• Dark Wax
• Mix 2 Mold Resin OR Amazing Cast Resin
• 1.5” Brooch Pin Backs

Step-by-Step Guide

STEP ONE: CAST YOUR MOULDS

To start, using Ceramic Resin is totally optional. If you’d rather stick with Amazing Cast Resin, go for it! We just happen to love Ceramic Resin because it’s so easy to clean up, and there are no fumes. It also dries hard in about 30 minutes (though keep in mind, we made ours at the end of summer, so winter conditions might take a little longer).

For our four brooches, we mixed a “medium” batch: three provided scoops (about 6 tablespoons) of powder to 2 tablespoons of water. Stir the mixture thoroughly until it is completely smooth, and keep in mind that any lumps will be visible in the casting. Use your stir stick, toothpick, or even a popsicle stick to help coax the mix into all those delicate nooks and crannies. Then let it sit on a flat surface until fully dry (ours were ready in about half an hour).

One more tip! We totally forgot to try this, but you can actually embed your brooch backings during the curing stage. Just wait until it’s starting to set (so they don’t sink straight to the bottom), but before the surface fully hardens. And if you miss the window like we did? No worries, just glue them on afterwards!

STEP TWO: PAINT THE BROOCH CASTING

For paint, we went with a soft blue chalk-style paint. It’s the perfect gentle color to make our autumn details pop. Once it was dry, we gave it a quick coat of water-based sealer. It’s super convenient, dries fast, and keeps everything protected, but use your favorite topcoat. Let that dry completely.

Using a very small artist brush, carefully add your gilding paint to the frame. Take your time here, it’s all about those delicate details. And don’t stress if you slip outside the lines; just go back in with a bit of touch-up paint. Work your way all around the frame, even the back, and then let it dry thoroughly before moving on.

STEP THREE: APPLY YOUR TRANSFERS

Now for the fun part, picking out your elements! We mixed in some of our favorites: a butterfly, autumn blooms, a cluster of mushrooms, and the sweetest little bunch of cherries. Use small scissors to cut around the designs you want, and always keep the transfer backing in place until you’re absolutely ready to commit.

When you’re set, hover to check placement, then press it down and use your applicator to transfer it to the surface. Don’t be intimidated by the curved shape of the brooch. These beauties go on easier than you think. 

STEP FOUR: DRESS UP WITH DARK WAX

Next up, grab your dark wax and a small wax brush to add depth around the frame. We kept it super soft on the actual surface of the brooch, so try to avoid brushing it over the center as much as you can. Once it’s on, gently buff away the excess with a soft cloth.

And hey, if you’re in a rush and accidentally lift a bit of paint, don’t panic! Just go back in with your gilding paint to bring those highlights back to life.

STEP FIVE: ADHERE THE BROOCH BACKING

If you’re like us and missed the window to set your brooch backs while casting, no worries! Just grab a strong glue (we love using Thick & Quick) and attach your backing pins. Let them dry fully, and voila, you’ve created some darling new jewelry to wear or gift. 🥰

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!