Maple Leaf Resin Charm

 A few years ago a neighbor gave us a miniature Japanese maple tree.  I always think the leaves are so delicate and artistic.  The last time the tree was in its full glory, I collected a few leaves and pressed them between heavy books.  I used an silicon oval resin mold with a built-in hole peg (sold at HM Ben Franklin Crafts) to make the charm. The UV/LED light liquid resin is a Padico product, but there are many light hardening resins available at HM BFC too.  I filled the mold in three steps and hardened the back before removing the charm from the mold.  Any imperfections were corrected with additional resin and/or filing with a glass nail file.  Finally the charm was attached to the charm pull (from HM BFC)  with a large Beadalon jump ring. This is a simple project which will bring a smile to the recipient especially if she gave you the tree. Saving a blossom or petal from a lei, bouquet or prom wristlet is a sweet way to immortalize the occasion. May your life be crafty and CHARMing!