How to Make a Spider Paperweight

Spider paperweights are a safe and practical way to study arachnids.

For most people, spiders are a creepy nuisance. But for a select few, the eight-legged arachnid can be a source of great joy and reverence. For the arachnophile in you or someone in your life, consider preserving a spider in a paperweight to last a lifetime. With the right materials and a bit of patience, this functional gift will not only hold papers but certainly many people’s attention.

Things You'll Need

• Mold resistant to heat
• Pyrex or polyethylene cup resistant to heat
• Clear epoxy resin kit
• Craft sticks
• Mold release and conditioner spray
• Tweezers
• Spider specimen
• Sewing needle or Pin
• Utility knife

Instructions

1. Select your mold. You can find paperweight sized molds at your local craft store or use small plastic food containers that are microwave safe.

2. Read the instructions on the resin kit. Resins are usually mixed together in two-parts: resin and catalyst.

3. Measure and then pour half the amount of resin and catalyst you will need in a heat resistant cup according to mold size. Stir and mix resin and catalyst with craft stick.

4. Spray the inside mold cavity using mold release and conditioner spray and let dry. Repeat this process a second time. This will help the resin pop out of the mold more easily.

5. Pour the resin mixture needed to fill half the mold. Tap the mold on a hard surface to minimize bubbles. Let cure for about 25 minutes or until resin has a gelatinous texture.

6. Pop any unwanted bubbles in the resin with a pin or needle.

7. Orient the spider specimen to your liking. For example, place it on its back if the mold fills from the bottom. Lay the spider specimen gently – spiders are delicate -- inside the mold cavity with tweezers.

8. Measure and stir the rest of the amount of resin and catalyst with a craft stick. Pour mixture slowly and evenly over the top of the spider until the mold and spider are completely covered in resin.

9. Use the needle or pin to pop any unwanted bubbles in the resin.

10. Set aside the mold in a safe place to cure overnight. The resin should feel solid and not sticky to the touch when ready.

11. Remove the paperweight from the mold cavity. If you are having difficulty, slide the utility knife in between the mold and the resin to break the suction that's holding the paperweight inside.

12. Display the spider paperweight with pride or give it as a gift.

Tips & Warnings

• Add flourishes to your spider paperweight like specimen labels, webs or leaves to create a natural looking habitat. Create smaller pieces for pendants or key chains.

• Resin is toxic so make sure there is proper ventilation. The use of safety gear like gloves, ventilation masks and eye wear is highly recommended. Protect your tabletop by covering with newspaper.

References

• Home Envy: Put a spin on paper weights