Do you want to draw attention to all of those distinct mould details in your projects, but you’re not sure where to start? This one is for you. 😊

In today’s tutorial, our lovely IOD Artisan Lisa Lorincz shares her process for revealing all those intricate details in your mould casting using mineral-based paints and glazes—starting with the darkest layers and building up lighter tones. She’s using Les Croix and Wreath & Swags to upcycle a vintage liquor bottle that was gifted to her. It’s such a good example of how combining IOD Moulds can create a timeless composition. Bookmark this one for the next time you’re in a creative pickle and need a little inspiration plus some really solid techniques!

Grab your IOD goodies from your local stockist! If you’re not sure where to find one, click here to use our store locator.

• Wreath and Swags Mould
• Les Croix Mould

• Two-Part Epoxy Resin
• Stick
• Vintage Bottle
• Black Mineral-Based Paint 
• Medium Gray Mineral-Based Paint 
• Sandy Blonde Mineral-Based Paint
• Cream Mineral-Based Paint 
• White Mineral-Based Paint 
• Gold Mineral-Based Paint 
• Brown Glaze 
• Solid Black Glaze
• Rhinestone Tape 
• Gold Metallic Paint 
• Plaster 
  

STEP ONE: CAST RESIN MOULDS

Lisa kicks things off by casting a cross in resin, but she pours it a little shallow; that way, when she stacks it with the next cross, there’s space to add a small stick and a bit of extra resin to attach the two castings together. She mixes a small batch of resin to use as a bonding agent, presses everything into place for a snug fit, then clamps the piece and lets it cure overnight so the whole structure sets up nice and strong.

STEP TWO: ATTACH THE CROSS TO A BOTTLE

Next, Lisa sets the finished cross topper into the neck of an old liquor bottle. She uses a two-part epoxy for a strong hold, taking her time to align everything so it sits flush and upright before it sets.

STEP THREE: PAINT YOUR PROJECT

Lisa starts with a black mineral-based paint, then builds texture by mixing the black paint with a bit of plaster. From there, she focuses on depth, layering in medium gray and then gradually applying lighter tones like sandy blonde, cream, and white. Using a dry-brush technique, she hits the raised details, so each pass adds more dimension and brings the piece closer to that beautiful vintage finish.

STEP FOUR: ADD A COLOR WASH

To add a little movement, Lisa thins white paint with water and lets it drip down her project, creating a dynamic effect that she seals in place using heat.

STEP FIVE: ADD A GILDED FINISH

Lisa applies gold paint to highlight the high points of her castings, accentuating their details. Further layering with drips and dry brushing creates an elegant vintage patina.

STEP SIX: SEALING AND EMBELLISHMENTS 

As a final flourish, Lisa seals the entire piece with two different glazes to add even more visual interest. Rhinestone tape and buttons are strategically placed, tying everything together into a cohesive design.

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!