How to Make Resin Photo Frames with Silicone Molds: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

Quick answer

To make a resin photo frame, you'll need a silicone mold designed for frames, epoxy resin, a printed photo, and adhesive. Pour a base layer, embed the photo, then fill with resin and allow it to cure fully before demolding.

Creating a resin photo frame lets you preserve a favorite memory in a glossy, durable keepsake. With a silicone mold, the process is straightforward, but getting the photo placement and resin pouring right takes a bit of know-how.

In this guide, we'll walk you through each step, from choosing the right mold to demolding your finished frame. You'll also learn how to avoid common pitfalls like air bubbles and photos that shift or curl.

Materials You'll Need

Before you start, gather your supplies. You'll need a silicone mold for photo frames, such as the CRAFT RESIN Pumpkin Jar Mold if you want a decorative jar-shaped frame, but for a classic frame, look for a flat, rectangular mold. You'll also need a quality epoxy resin like Craft Resin's, a printed photo on regular paper or a laser-printed copy, and a clear-drying adhesive like a glue stick or double-sided tape.

Additional tools include disposable cups, stirring sticks, a heat gun or torch for bubbles, and gloves to protect your hands. If you're embedding a photo, consider using a matte photo paper to reduce glare and prevent the ink from bleeding into the resin.

Preparing Your Photo and Mold

First, cut your photo to fit the recess in the mold. Ensure it's slightly smaller than the area to allow for resin coverage. If you're using a photo printed on a standard inkjet printer, seal it with a thin layer of clear packing tape or a spray sealant to prevent the ink from running when it contacts resin.

Clean your silicone mold with warm soapy water and dry it thoroughly. This removes any dust or residue that could cause imperfections. Place the mold on a level surface to ensure your frame cures evenly.

Mixing and Pouring the First Layer

Mix your epoxy resin according to the manufacturer's instructions. For Craft Resin epoxy, that means a 1:1 ratio by volume, mixed thoroughly for at least two minutes, scraping the sides and bottom of the cup. Then pour a thin base layer into the mold, just enough to cover the bottom.

This base layer serves as a bed for your photo. Allow it to cure until it's tacky but not fully hard—usually a few hours, depending on the resin. This prevents the photo from sinking or shifting when you pour the next layer.

Embedding the Photo

Once the base layer is tacky, apply a small amount of adhesive to the back of your photo and press it gently into the mold. Make sure it lies flat and smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles. If you're using a photo that has curled edges, you may need to bend it slightly to fit the mold's contour.

Check that the photo is centered and aligned as you want it. This is your chance to adjust before the final pour. Once you're satisfied, you can proceed to the next step.

Final Pour and Curing

Mix another batch of resin and carefully pour it over the photo, filling the mold to the desired depth. Aim for a consistent layer that completely covers the photo. If you're using a mold with a rim, pour up to the edge but not over.

After pouring, use a heat gun or torch to pop any surface bubbles. Move the heat source quickly to avoid overheating the resin. Then cover the mold with a dust cover or box to keep out particles while it cures. Allow it to cure for the full time recommended by the resin manufacturer—often 24 to 72 hours.

Demolding and Finishing

Once the resin has fully cured, gently flex the silicone mold to release the frame. If it doesn't pop out easily, try pushing from the back or running a small tool around the edges—but be careful not to scratch the resin.

After demolding, you may notice sharp edges or a cloudy surface. Use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth edges, then buff with a polishing compound to restore shine. Your resin photo frame is now ready to display or gift.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Prepare the mold: Clean and dry your silicone mold thoroughly. Ensure it's on a level surface. Checkpoint: No dust or moisture remains.
2. Mix and pour a base layer: Mix resin thoroughly and pour a thin layer into the mold. Let it cure until tacky. Checkpoint: The layer is tacky but not liquid.
3. Embed the photo: Apply adhesive to the back of your photo and place it onto the tacky resin. Smooth out any bubbles. Checkpoint: Photo is flat and centered.
4. Pour the final layer: Mix a second batch of resin and pour over the photo to fill the mold. Use a heat gun to pop bubbles. Checkpoint: All bubbles are removed.
5. Cure and demold: Let the resin cure fully for the recommended time. Then, flex the mold to release the frame. Checkpoint: Frame releases cleanly without sticking.

Products That Help

• Epoxy Resin Molds for Spring Butterfly Soft Silicone Molds Set of 3 Sizes Easter Silicone Molds for Resin, Gypsum and Candle: This set includes 3 different sizes of soft, flexible silicone molds, perfect for creating stunning butterfly designs. Whether you're crafting with epoxy resin, gypsum, or candles, these molds offer the versatility you need for all your DIY projects. If you want to add a decorative butterfly accent to your photo frame, these molds let you cast small resin butterflies to attach to the frame's corner.
• CRAFT RESIN Mold Making Silicone 30A 8.8lb | Liquid Rubber For Molds: Craft Resin Silicone 30A is a firmer platinum-cured liquid silicone rubber for mold making and casting. It is designed for projects that need strength, shape retention, and clean detail across repeated pours. If you want to create a custom photo frame mold to fit a specific photo size, this silicone lets you make your own mold at home.

With a bit of patience and the right technique, you can create a beautiful resin photo frame that captures a special moment. Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and follow resin safety guidelines. Now it's time to get creative—choose your favorite photo and start pouring!