Fancy creating an original decorative item out of Jesmonite? In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to make a decorative Jesmonite box with a marbled effect, topped with a pretty embossed peony. A charming decorative piece, where the marbled effect meets the delicacy of a raised peony. A creative project that anyone can tackle.
This creation can be used in many ways: as a jewellery box, a trinket tray, a small decorative storage box or simply as a decorative Jesmonite piece. And for those who wish to take it a step further, it’s also possible to transform the box into a container for making a scented candle.
With its mineral-like appearance, marbled shades and floral lid, this DIY project allows you to create an object that is as practical as it is decorative, and fully customisable to suit your tastes.
The materials you’ll need to make your floral, marble-effect Jesmonite box
Are you new to Jesmonite? Before getting started, explore our guide to best practices and common mistakes to avoid. You’ll find essential tips to help you prepare your materials, master each step and successfully complete your first Jesmonite project with confidence.
To make this creation, you’ll need:
- DuoSet AC100
- Jesmonite pigment “White”
- Jesmonite pigment “Coade”
- Decorative box mould
- Small peony mould
- Spatula
- Water
- Beaker
- Precision scales
- Skewer or thin stick
- Serrated knife
- Vibrating plate (optional)
If you wish to pour a candle into it:
- Candle-making wax
- Candle fragrance of your choice
- 27/16 or 30/18 wick
- Acrylic varnish
- Paintbrush
Detailed steps for this project
Step 1: work out how much Jesmonite you’ll need
Start by getting aprecision scale and your decorative box mould. Place the mould on the scale and tare it. Then fill it with water to determine its exact capacity.
Enter the values obtained into our calculator. This will allow you to work out directly thequantities of liquid and powder required to prepare your Jesmonite.
This step ensures you prepare just the right amount of material and avoid waste.
Step 2: preparing the Jesmonite mixture
Once the quantities have been calculated, gradually pour the powder into the liquid. Add it little by little whilst mixing thoroughly with a spatula. Continue until you have asmooth, fluidmixturefree from lumps.
Take the time to mix the powder in thoroughly to ensure the mixture is even before moving on to creating the marbled effect.
Step 3: creating a marbled effect with pigments
To add texture and character to the box, we’re going to create amarbled effect using Jesmonite. Add a few dropsof white pigment and Coade pigment directly into your mixture. Using a skewer or a thin stick, make a few gentle swipes through the mixture to reveal veins of colour.
Be careful not to mix too much: the pigments must remain partially distinct to preserve the different shades and achieve that lovely marbled finish once removed from the mould.
Step 4: Pour the Jesmonite into the mould
Gently pour your mixture into the mould. If you have avibrating plate, place your mould on it for a few moments. The vibrations will help trap air bubbles to rise to the surface and contribute to a smoother finish.
Then leave the Jesmonite to set sufficiently before carefully removing it from the mould.
Step 5: Customise the box lid
To give the lid its distinctive shape and to incorporate our flower, carefully cut away the edge using aserrated knife. Work gradually to achieve a clean cut that matches the shape of the peony, which will then adorn the top of the box.
Step 6: Making the peony out of Jesmonite
Prepare another batch of Jesmonite using exactly the same method as before. This time, pour the mixture into thesmall peony mould.
Before the Jesmonite sets, insert the cut-out section of the lid directly into the flower. It must be submerged deep enough in the material to allow the two parts to bond together.
As it hardens, the peony and the lid will form a single piece, creating a pretty floral lid with a raised design.
Step 7: Protect your creation with a varnish
Once the whole piece has been successfully removed from the mould and is completely dry, applytwo coats of acrylic varnish using a brush. Make sure to spread the varnish evenly over all surfaces and allow sufficient drying time between coats.
Then leave your creation to dry forat least 48 hours before pouring your candle into it.
Step 8: Turn the box into a scented candle
Your Jesmonite container is ready: all that’s left to do is make the candle!
Start by positioning your 27/16 or 30/18 wick in the centre of the container. Next, prepare your candle-making wax and addbetween 7 and 10 per cent fragrance, taking care to follow the dosage recommendations specific to the fragrance and wax you are using. Mix thoroughly to distribute the fragrance evenly throughout the wax, then pour your mixture directly into the Jesmonite container.
Finally, leave your candle to cool and set completely.
A Jesmonite candle that’s as decorative as it is fragrant
Your creation is complete! You’ve made a Jesmonite candle box with a marbled effect, complete with a lid adorned with a raised peony design.
You can personalise this DIY project by experimenting with pigments, the intensity of the marbling or even the scent of your candle. Natural shades for a minimalist, mineral-inspired look, bolder colours for an original result, or a floral scent to complement the peony: it’s up to you to come up with your own version.
