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You guys, I couldn't be more psyched about sharing Lauren's guest post today. Lauren is YBC's Marketing and Events Director and if her other DIY projects haven't solidified her Martha status this one definitely will. Hope you love. xo Candace
With Spring right around the corner **yassssss** I thought it would be the perfect time to make something fun and whimsical to brighten up our space. I haven’t been super proactive in decorating our house since purchasing it last summer, so I figured I was way past due for another fairly easy, pretty cheap DIY. My close friends know I’m a sucker for a good decorative table/ottoman tray but I always find them to be pretty pricey; even at places like Home Goods or TJ Maxx. I stumbled across the most magical confetti while browsing around Michaels recently and was immediately inspired to create this unique decorative serving tray.
What You’ll need:
Confetti of your choice *or other something similar
Clear Polyester Resin (32oz)
Casting Craft Catalyst *this is VERY important, your resin will not harden without this
What You’ll Do:
Step 1: We’re going to start by applying the Modge Podge Extreme Glitter to the base of the tray. Of course you don’t have to use a glitter glue base, but it’s what I had on hand. This step just ensures that the confetti will stay in place during our next step.
Step 2: Pour that confetti in! There’s no right or wrong way, just fill it on up!
Step 3: This is a very important step. Please read the instructions on your resin very carefully. In this step we will mix our Clear Polyester Resin with the Casting Craft Catalyst which will create a chemical reaction necessary to harden the resin. Please read/follow the specific instructions for what you purchase; for reference I’ll share how I mixed mine. I needed to add 6 drops of Catalyst for each 1 oz of Resin used. I used the entire can of resin (32oz) so I added about 195 drops to an unwaxed mixing bowl. You’ll want to mix in a well ventilated area for 60 seconds.
Step 4: Once your resin is well mixed with the Catalyst slowly fill your tray. It will take 24 hours for the resin to fully harden, so just place it in a warm WELL VENTILATED area. If you’ve never worked with resin before I should stress that it has a very strong odor. I left mine outside most of the day to ‘off gas’ - I suggest you do the same, especially if you have small children in the house.
I’m really surprised with how awesome this tray turned out - especially because it was my first time working with resin. I can’t wait to put it to good use throughout the house. Feel free to sound off below on what DIY project you’d like to see next.