QuestionIs the process to harden origami to make it into a bead the same as hardening and sealing a flower? If either yes or no, can you detail the process(es) involved and the products needed? Also, how would I be able to make a hole, wherever, in this bead, after the hardening process? I want a origami bead similar to the natural flower beads I have seen recently, but with a semi-gloss rather than gloss finish or even matte finish. Could I spray coat with artist finish coating at the end to achieve this?
AnswerBeth,
I would like to say I'm an expert at origami bead making but it just isn't so.... I did however find a link at ehow that has some great ideas and sources for epoxy to help you with your project. :
http://www.ehow.com/how_8018971_resin-beads.html
I love doing craft projects and this seems like a fun one I hope it helps. My Japanese gymnastics coach taught me Origami when I was in high school. It was amazing to see what he could do with paper. He made most of the furniture and decor in his apartment from paper and light wood. He also constructed his sushi restaurant entirely himself as well,,, very creative and functional things can be done in that style.
You asked about the hole, you should be able to drill them with a drill but I also recommend to indent them where you want to put the hole a little before the epoxy hardens, it should make it easier to drill the hole if you have to use a drill. I like the non stick skewer method described in the article I linked you above. It all sounds like a fun project. I hope you enjoy.
I also recommend you test the artist finish paint to make sure it is compatible with the epoxy. Ask the paint store if it will stick some paints don't.
Yahoo also had a helpfull article that might be interesting and informative for you to read:
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20090730031956AAfnEgp
I hope this answers your question let me know if there is anything else I can help you with.
C
