Resin and Pinecone Bowl — Natural Modern Craft
There’s a unique satisfaction in transforming natural elements into something entirely new, and this Christmas-inspired resin and pinecone bowl is a perfect example of that magic. It’s a piece that marries the raw beauty of nature with the intricate possibilities of modern artistry.
The star of the show is undoubtedly Eye Candy Pigment’s dark ocean green mica powder. Its swirling patterns create a sense of movement and depth, evoking images of ocean currents or beautifully marbled stone. This vibrant base serves as the perfect backdrop for the treasures nestled within: numerous pinecones, each retaining their natural brown and tan hues. They are scattered organically throughout the bowl’s walls, their intricate, scale-like textures providing a beautiful contrast to the smooth, flowing resin.
Adding a delightful pop of unexpected color are the small, perfectly **round red inclusions **that I used to simulate berries. These circular discs, scattered thoughtfully across the surface, break up the deeper greens and natural tones, adding a whimsical touch to the overall design.
The bowl itself boasts a well-rounded, bulbous shape, tapering gently towards its base. The surface has been polished to a high gloss, resulting in a smooth, captivating finish that enhances the translucency and depth of the resin. I finished it with several coats of Waterlox Original and buffed out to a gloss finish. The clarity allows us to peer into the layers, appreciating the composition of the pinecones and pink elements.
This piece is a testament to the exciting results that come from combining traditional woodturning techniques with contemporary materials like resin. It’s a beautiful fusion of rustic elements and sophisticated artistry, creating a bowl that is as visually captivating as it is a conversation starter.
You can also watch the process on Instagram →
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The Waterlox Original finish on this piece — a tung-oil-based resin varnish — was the right call for a high-gloss resin surface that needs durability alongside clarity. Wood Bowl Finishes Explained → covers Waterlox alongside the other finishes I use for functional and decorative pieces.
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