Throughout the various customization options for epoxy—such as adding colorants, etching, or layering—embedding objects within the resin stands out as one of the most enjoyable and versatile techniques.

However, understanding embedding technique fully is what leads to flawless results, as improper placement can introduce imperfections like clouding, air bubbles, or scratches into the epoxy.

In this article, we'll explore three effective methods for embedding small objects and other items into your epoxy resin projects, ensuring that you can perform this technique with confidence and creativity.

New to epoxy? Check out our beginner's guide to the application process here!

Objects That Are Safe to Embed Into Epoxy

Epoxy resin is remarkably versatile, bonding well with a wide range of materials. While it is commonly used solely with typical substrate materials like granite, its compatibility extends to various embeddable objects as well.

Virtually anything small enough to fit within the confines of the mixed resin can be embedded. Here are some common examples of objects that many epoxy enthusiasts incorporate into their projects:

• Paper Memorabilia: Such as tickets, photographs, or letters.
• Coins: Adding a touch of metallic sheen.
• Bottle Caps: Perfect for bar top themes.
• Bottle Corks: Ideal for crafting unique, visually textured surfaces.
• Natural Objects: Like pebbles, seashells, and minerals, great for creating naturalistic scenes.
• Small Artistic Creations: Such as figurines and carvings that add personal flair.
• Fine Materials: Including glitter and sand for extra sparkle and texture.

Beyond these few examples are so many other possibilities. Because there are so few restrictions on what is safe to embed, the only real limiting factor is creator preference.

Objects That Are Not Safe to Embed Into Epoxy

Although epoxy is adaptable and can encapsulate a wide variety of items, there are certain materials that should not be embedded within it:

• Unprepared Organic Materials: This includes plants, animals, and food items, which can decompose or react unfavorably when encased in epoxy.

• Moisture-containing Items: Liquids are an obvious no, but this category also extends to items like fresh flowers or artwork that hasn’t fully dried. Moisture can interfere with the curing process and lead to cloudiness or structural weaknesses.

• Valuable or Irreplaceable Items: Once an object is embedded in epoxy and it has cured, it is very difficult, if not impossible, to remove without damage. Therefore, avoid using anything that you might want to retrieve in its original condition.

Learn how to properly prepare and embed dried flowers and similar items in your epoxy projects in our guide here.

Primaloc Epoxy: The Optimal Choice for Object Embedments

At Primaloc, we offer two types of resin that are excellently suited for sealing, finishing, and creating art pieces with embedded objects. These products are:

• Primaloc Bar & Table Top Epoxy: The classic formulation, designed as a rock-solid, crystal-clear sealant ideal for furniture and fixtures. This epoxy excels in creating a protective and enhancing layer on surfaces.

• Primaloc Deep Pour Epoxy: A low-viscosity resin perfect for casting thicker layers—up to 2 inches deep! This makes it ideal for larger embedments.

While both types of resin can accommodate embedments, the choice between them often depends on the depth of the layer required and the size of the objects being embedded.

For Large Objects That Require Deep Layers, Choose Deep Pour Epoxy.

For projects involving small objects, any epoxy may suffice, but for larger objects or more intricate designs, our Primaloc Deep Pour Epoxy is recommended. Its lower viscosity allows for deeper pours without the risk of forming blemishes, making it perfect for embedding bigger items and achieving flawless results.

How to Embed Objects Into Epoxy: 3 Distinct Methods

Embedding objects in epoxy can enhance the visual appeal and functionality of your project. Here are three established methods for incorporating objects into an epoxy finish:

1. Gluing Down
2. Affixing via Seal Coat
3. Base Layer Embedding

Let’s explore each method in detail.

Method #1: Gluing Down Your Objects

This method involves using adhesive to secure your items to the substrate before applying any epoxy. It’s effective for ensuring that objects remain in place during the epoxy application process.

How to Apply This Technique:

• Use a suitable adhesive—we recommend ordinary glue (avoid hot glue as it may not provide the best adherence for this purpose).

• Apply a small amount of glue either to the object or directly on the substrate where you will place the object.

• Firmly press the object onto the substrate.

• Continue this process for all items you wish to embed.

• Allow the glue to dry completely before proceeding with the application of a seal coat or flood coat. This ensures that the objects do not shift or float when the epoxy is poured.

Method #2: Placing Your Objects Into a Fresh Epoxy Seal Coat

This approach involves using an epoxy seal coat to adhere your objects to the substrate, providing an alternative to using traditional adhesive.

How to Apply This Technique:

• Start by applying a thin, partial seal coat to the substrate. (Learn how to do this here).

• Gently press the objects into the wet seal coat, positioning them as desired on the substrate.

• Continue applying the seal coat, ensuring it fully covers the embedments.

• Allow the seal coat to partially cure for a full 24 hours to ensure that the objects are securely embedded.

• Once the seal coat has set, you can proceed with the next step, which usually involves applying a flood coat to fully encapsulate the objects and substrate.

Method #3: Suspending Objects Atop a Base Layer of Epoxy

This method involves creating a base layer of epoxy to suspend your objects, followed by a second, final flood coat to encapsulate them completely.

How to Apply This Technique:

• Proceed with your project as usual up to the point of applying a deep coat or initial flood coat.

• Apply a modest layer of epoxy to partially fill the substrate or resin mold. This forms your base layer.

• Allow this base layer to partially cure for a few hours—typically between 4 to 10 hours. This timing ensures that the epoxy is set enough to support objects without letting them sink to the bottom.

• Carefully place and arrange your objects on this partially cured layer according to your design preferences.

• Mix and apply a second flood coat of epoxy, ensuring it covers the objects and the underlying layer completely.

• Continue with the standard finishing steps for your project, such as removing any air bubbles and allowing the entire piece to fully cure.

This method is ideal for ensuring that embedded objects remain visible and suspended within the epoxy, adding depth and interest to the final piece.

Tips for Placing and Positioning Your Objects

• Precision Placement: For small or delicate items, use tweezers to achieve precise placement within your epoxy project. This tool allows for careful handling and accurate positioning without disturbing the epoxy.

• Secure Placement: After placing objects in the epoxy, take a moment to ensure they are properly situated. It’s far easier to adjust the placement now than to correct a mistake after the epoxy has started to set.

• Preparing Absorbent Materials: If you're embedding absorbent items like paper, it’s crucial to prep them first to prevent damage from the epoxy. Apply a layer of Mod Podge or a similar sealer to these items before embedding. This coating creates a barrier that protects the material from absorbing the epoxy, which can cause warping or a soggy appearance.

Primaloc Epoxy: Premium Epoxy for Premium Results

With our premium Bar & Table Top Epoxy and our Deep Pour Epoxy, Primaloc gets the job done. Our epoxy resins are premium-grade, with high performance in every category, including:

• Unmatched Strength: A Primaloc finish won't buckle, even under high pressure.
• Long-Lasting Resilience: Primaloc epoxy lasts for many years with minimal care, and can endure high-traffic environments with ease.
• A Crystal-Clear Coating: With its pristine, transparent appearance, looking at a cured Primaloc coating is like peering through a window.

Epoxy resin can be beautiful, strong, and long-lasting—which is why you shouldn't compromise on quality. With Primaloc Epoxy Resin, you get the ultimate finish in durability and visual appeal.

Protect your surfaces by giving them a rock-solid epoxy finish. Choose strong. Choose reliable. Choose Primaloc.