Backless bezels are my favorite way to use our new Objects and Elements Epoxy Doming Resin because of the light that is able to pass through and the variety of things that you can add to it. The resin dries to a glass like surface and allows you to collage to your heart’s content. It’s a great way for a mixed media artist to really shine. You can add anything dry so when I found this butterfly wing on my car I decided she should be remembered for her beauty...watch out dead bugs!
Choose a backless bezel or get your jeweler’s saw out and make one! For the backing I use a nice quality clear packing tape, it seems to get the most consistent results. Cut a piece of packing tape larger than your bezel and burnish it onto the back of the bezel. To burnish, rub the tape with your thumbs to warm the glue and get a tight seal.
Tip: There will need to be enough of a lip on the back of the bezel to seal or the resin will just run out.
Before you add anything to your bezel lay down a thin layer of mixed resin to cover the sticky side of the tape. If you forget this step you run the risk of your inclusions sticking to the tape and not being imbedded in the resin.
Layer your items in the bezel and balance it all before adding more resin. This will keep you from creating overspill. Take a toothpick and wiggle your inclusions to make sure that you don’t have trapped air bubbles. You can then fill to the top and even dome if you want to do it in one pour.
Set a timer for about 15-20 minutes and come back to make sure that there are no air bubbles that can’t escape. Use a toothpick to “lift” them to the top rather than trying to stab them. Let dry overnight or for at least 6-9 hours and remove the tape from the back.
Tip: Once in a while the tape will leave a sticky residue when removed. Leave it until the resin has cured—three days—and then use a “goo remover” to take the residue off.
If you want words in your piece, use a purchased transparency sheet or make your own at a copy center. I also love to include old paper, very thin and old turns the most transparent.
