Embed a Picture in Resin with Helpful Tips & Techniques: A Guide

If you’ve ever wished you could turn your favourite photo into a piece of timeless art. Learning how to embed a picture in resin lets you preserve memories in a glossy, durable, and completely unique form. Still wishing? Let’s make it possible and bring your memory to life in resin while creating another. Whether it’s a cherished family photograph, a wedding memory, or your child’s first drawing, resin gives it a stunning glass-like finish that lasts for years for you to see.

In this blog, we’ll go step by step from selecting the photo and resin to perfecting the pour, so you can confidently create a masterpiece, décor pieces, and maybe give it as a personalised gift to someone special. 

Why Embed a Picture in Resin?

Embedding photos in resin isn’t just a craft but a way of storytelling. Each piece captures a memory, sealed forever under a crystal-clear layer. The technique is growing in popularity across India, especially among DIYers and crafters, to personalise gifts or decorate their homes.

Resin’s natural shine and depth make pictures in resin art look almost three-dimensional (almost real). You can use the method for:

1. personalised coasters or trays

2. nameplates or keychains

3. decorative blocks or photo pendants

4. keepsake gifts for weddings, anniversaries, or festivals

Resin enhances the photo’s colour, contrast, and clarity beautifully, whether it is minimalist or vibrant.

Materials and Tools Required to Embed a Picture in Resin

Before you start, gather the right tools. Preparation always makes sure smooth results literally!. So you’ll need:

• Photo or image, of course, on a high-resolution print, ideally laser-printed or on glossy photo paper.

• Choose a clear, UV-resistant, heat-safe brand made for Epoxy resin and hardener.

• A sealant like Mod Podge, varnish, or clear adhesive spray to prevent ink bleeding.

• Mixing supplies, including plastic disposable cups, wooden stir sticks, disposable gloves, and a mask.

• Other tools like tweezers, a heat gun, or a lighter (for removing bubbles), and sandpaper for finishing.

• And do not forget to keep your workspace clean so humidity and dust do not interfere with the resin.

Pro tip: Keep your safety tools ready and measure resin accurately. Resin work is all about precision.

Preparing Your Picture for Resin Embedding

Choosing the Right Type of Print

Not all prints behave the same in resin. Avoid inkjet prints as they tend to bleed. Instead, go for laser-printed photos or professional photo lab prints on glossy paper. The higher the resolution, the sharper the final results you’ll get. Most local print shops can laminate or print on thick paper for a very small cost, totally worth it for quality.

Sealing and Protecting the Picture

This step is crucial. Without sealing, your photo could absorb resin, ruining the image.

• Apply two thin coats of clear varnish, letting each layer dry completely.

• Alternatively, laminate the photo (a great option for Indian humidity).

• Always ensure the sealant is fully dry before embedding, as it prevents cloudy finishes and trapped moisture.

Step-by-Step Process to Embed a Picture in Resin

1. Set Up Your Workstation

Resin is sensitive to its surroundings. Work in a ventilated area. Lay down plastic sheets or newspaper, and make sure pets and children are out of the way. Temperature matters too, ideally 22 to 26 °C. If you’re working in hot or humid conditions, mix smaller batches to prevent overheating (resin self-heats during curing).

2. Mixing the Resin and Hardener

Follow the ratio (usually 1:1 or 2:1, meaning 1 or 2 parts resin to 1 part hardener) on your resin DIY kits. Measure precisely and stir slowly for at least three minutes, scraping the sides and bottom of your cup. Mixing too fast creates bubbles, and if you stir it for too short, then the resin won’t cure fully.

3. Pouring the First Layer (Base Coat)

Pour a thin base layer of resin, just enough to cover the surface. This layer acts as a cushion and keeps the photo in place. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes until slightly tacky.

4. Positioning the Picture Accurately

Now, gently place your sealed photo face-up on the tacky resin. Use tweezers to adjust alignment and remove any trapped air. Press lightly from the centre outwards. If bubbles appear, use a toothpick or blow gently with a straw to release them. This is where patience pays off and makes sure there’s no trapped air, or the finished piece might have cloudy spots.

5. Sealing with the Final Resin Layer

Once your photo is in place, pour another thin layer of clear resin over it until it’s completely covered. Move slowly from the centre to the edges. Pop surface bubbles using a heat gun or lighter (held at least 10 cm away). Cover your project with a clean box or bowl to protect it from dust.

6. Curing and Demoulding

Allow your piece to cure undisturbed for at least 1 to 2 days. Resin takes time to harden, so avoid touching or moving it until it’s fully hardened. When it’s ready, gently demould by flexing the edges or tapping lightly. For trays or larger pieces, sanding the edges with fine-grit paper gives a professional touch. You can also add metallic paint or foil flakes to the sides for an elegant finish.

A Few Tips to Get Professional Results

Here are some things that you should consider before and while creating your resin art:

• Print clarity matters: The higher the resolution, the better the depth once encased.

• Seal completely: Never skip the sealing step; it prevents bleeding and fading.

• Work small in heat: Resin cures faster in Indian summer temperatures, so mix less to maintain control.

• Bubble control: Stir slowly, pour slowly, and warm resin gently to reduce bubbles.

• Get creative: Add metallic leaf, pressed flowers, or glitter behind your photo for artistic layers. 

Here is the biggest tip for you. If you’re embedding pictures in resin for the first time, practice with a spare print before your main project, as it can save you from breaking your heart later.

Creative Project Ideas

If you’re wondering what to make next, try these ideas:

1. Family Photo Coasters: Great for gifting during Diwali or weddings.

2. Memory Trays: Embed a festival photo with metallic gold edges.

3. Resin Nameplates: Use pictures, initials, and shimmer powders.

4. Photo Magnets or Keychains: Perfect for handmade keepsakes.

5. Wall Décor Panels: Combine multiple resin-embedded photos for a gallery wall effect.

You can also mix pictures in resin art with Indian motifs like paisley patterns, mirror pieces, or vibrant colours for a local twist.

Conclusion

Learning to embed a picture in resin is more than a DIY, but an art form that turns memories into masterpieces. From photo coasters to decorative trays, every creation tells a personal story and lasts for years when done right. The process may seem technical, but once you master the basics, the possibilities are endless.

To create more art pieces like these with proven techniques and bring your most ambitious ideas to life with confidence, consider joining us at Arts Shala. Our expert instructors provide hands-on guidance, professional finishing methods, and advanced resin art courses that help you refine your skills and create flawless, lasting works of art. Contact Us Today! and start crafting the memories that last forever.