The Six-Figure Opportunity in Wedding Flower Preservation
How creative entrepreneurs are turning epoxy flower preservation into a business of their own—and how iCoat helps artists build the skills and resources to make it happen. What if the next six-figure business opportunity isn’t a new app, a franchise, or another online trend? What if it is sitting inside a wedding bouquet? Wedding flower preservation is becoming a serious business opportunity for creative people who want to build a business of their own. For the right artist, epoxy preservation can become far more than a creative hobby. It can become a professional business built around meaningful products, strong customer relationships, and the ability to create something people are willing to pay for. And the market is there. A Massive Market With Millions of Potential Customers The latest data from The Knot puts the size of the U.S. wedding market into perspective. Approximately 2 million couples were married in the U.S. in 2025, contributing more than $100 billion to the wedding professionals who make those celebrations happen. The average wedding cost was approximately $34,200. (The Knot) But here’s the number that should get the attention of anyone considering flower preservation as a business: 76% of weddings take place between May and October. Fall is currently the most popular wedding season, with 35% of couples marrying between September and November, compared with 33% from June through August. October and June each accounted for about 16% of weddings in the latest study. (The Knot) That’s a tremendous concentration of potential customers. Every one of those weddings represents an opportunity to sell a service that wasn’t necessarily part of the wedding budget when the couple first started planning. Preserve the flowers. Preserve the memory. Create something they’ll keep forever. The Business Isn’t Just About Bouquets One of the biggest opportunities in flower preservation is understanding that you’re not limited to one product. A bouquet can become a large statement piece. But the flowers from that same wedding can also become ring holders, small keepsakes, boutonniere and corsage pieces, hearts, bookends, display pieces, signature pieces, and heirlooms. That changes the business equation. Instead of thinking, “How many bouquets can I preserve?”, a successful artist can begin thinking, “How many products can I create from each wedding?” Parents may want a keepsake. The bride may want a larger piece. A member of the wedding party may want something made from a boutonniere. A couple may want several pieces to display throughout their home. The opportunity is to build a product line—not simply offer a single service. And that is where the potential for a substantial business begins to emerge. What Does a Six-Figure Business Look Like? Making six figures isn’t automatic, and it isn’t something every artist will achieve. But the math behind a six-figure business is much more approachable when you break it down. A business generating $100,000 in annual revenue doesn’t necessarily require hundreds of customers every month. It requires the right combination of customers, products, pricing, capacity, and consistency. For example, an artist who develops a strong product mix and averages several hundred dollars in revenue per completed order needs a manageable number of orders each month to build toward $100,000 in annual sales. That doesn’t mean every artist should—or even could—handle that volume. In fact, knowing your capacity is one of the most important parts of building the business. The goal isn’t to accept every job that comes through the door. The goal is to create a business you can operate profitably while delivering work that customers are proud to own. You Can Start with Very Little Money This is one of the reasons flower preservation is such an interesting opportunity. You don’t necessarily need to open a storefront. You don’t need a large staff. You don’t need to serve hundreds of customers immediately. You can start by learning the craft, creating your portfolio, developing your product offerings, establishing your pricing, and taking on work at a pace you can manage. Then you build. More experience leads to better work. Better work leads to better photography and testimonials. Those create credibility. Credibility makes it easier to attract customers. And eventually, what began as a few preservation projects can become a business with real scale. You control how far you take it. That’s Where iCoat Comes In We believe artists shouldn’t have to figure out every part of this business on their own. iCoat’s role is bigger than supplying epoxy. We’re building training, resources, products, and support specifically to help artists become successful flower preservation professionals. That means helping artists understand the preservation process, develop their skills, choose the right products, create pieces customers want, and build the confidence to take on paying clients. Our goal is to give artists the tools and support they need to get paid for their work—every job, every time. We’re also developing resources to make the path into the business easier for someone who is just getting started, including our upcoming iCoat Starter Kit for new artists. You don’t have to know everything on day one. You need a willingness to learn, a commitment to producing quality work, and a system that can help you move from learning the craft to serving real customers. Wedding Season Is a Business Opportunity The timing makes this opportunity even more compelling. With the majority of weddings concentrated between May and October, artists who prepare before the season can position themselves to take advantage of the demand. (The Knot Images) That preparation might mean building your website, creating your preservation menu, photographing your products, connecting with local wedding professionals, establishing your customer process, or simply making sure you can handle the number of orders you’re willing to accept. The artists who treat this as a business—not just a hobby—have the opportunity to build something meaningful. And there is another advantage: The product you’re creating has emotion built into it. You’re not selling a piece of resin. You’re selling a way for someone to keep part of their wedding day.
Why Epoxy Yellows and Ambers (And How to Prevent It)
Why Epoxy Yellows and Ambers (And How to Prevent It) Why Epoxy Yellows and Ambers Over Time Several factors cause epoxy to develop a yellowish tint: prolonged heat exposure, UV light from sunlight, aging, and poorly formulated epoxy resins. Not all epoxies are created equal, they vary widely in quality. The old adage “you get what you pay for” rings especially true in the epoxy coatings industry. High-quality epoxies formulated for art, preservation, or functional surfaces should include UV stabilizers in their formula. Heat-rated resins are essential for applications like counters and tabletops, allowing you to place hot items directly on the surface. Cheaper imported products are inconsistent and unreliable for long-term performance. Choose a product with at least ten years of proven field performance, as age can contribute to yellowing. Advantages of Quality Epoxy Epoxy offers numerous advantages across various applications. For countertops and food preparation areas, it provides a nonporous, food-safe surface that prevents germs and contaminants from penetrating. For preservation projects like encasing flowers, jewelry, or memorabilia, epoxy creates a crystal-clear, protective coating that showcases your items beautifully. Epoxy can be seamlessly applied and customized to any color or pattern. When properly formulated and applied, it should maintain its clarity and last indefinitely. Protecting Against Yellowing To protect your epoxy projects, keep them away from prolonged heat sources. For countertops, use cutting boards, trivets, or hot pads under crockpots, coffee makers, and other heat-generating appliances. For preserved flowers and decorative pieces, display them away from direct heat vents or warm lighting fixtures. Avoid placing epoxy projects in direct sunlight or outdoors, as UV exposure accelerates breakdown and yellowing. If displaying near windows, consider UV-filtering glass or window film. Indoor environments with ambient light are ideal for maintaining clarity. While epoxy may deepen slightly in color after several years, most colors and applications show no noticeable change. Clear epoxy used for flower preservation and white surfaces are most susceptible to visible color shifts, potentially developing a cream or amber tone. Restoring Yellowed Epoxy If yellowing occurs on flat surfaces like countertops or art pieces, it typically affects only the top layer. Thicker epoxy applications can be carefully sanded to remove the discolored surface. After sanding, high-quality epoxy can be buffed and polished to restore clarity. For three-dimensional pieces like preserved flowers or encased objects, prevention is key since restoration is more difficult. Many professionals offer maintenance and restoration services for epoxy surfaces. Questions? If you need assistance with your epoxy project, reach out to iCoat for help. We have over 35 years of experience in epoxy applications, from countertops to artistic preservation.
Working with Epoxy in Cold Weather
Working with Epoxy in Cold Weather Working with Epoxy in Winter (Without Overheating Your Studio) When temperatures drop, epoxy behaves very differently. Instead of curing too fast and kicking off a big exotherm like in summer, cold conditions make resin thicker, slower to cure, and much more likely to trap bubbles. The good news: with a few simple adjustments, winter can actually be one of the best seasons to work with epoxy. Why cold epoxy is a problem Cold affects every part of the epoxy process: Thicker viscosity When epoxy is cold, it gets thick and syrupy, which makes it harder to measure, mix, and spread smoothly. Slower or incomplete cure Below the recommended working range (typically around the low-70s Fahrenheit and up, depending on the system), cure time can double or even stall. More bubbles, less release Cold resin and cold molds hold onto bubbles instead of letting them rise and pop, leading to cloudy spots and weak areas in your piece. Many makers warm their resin bottles before mixing, which is a great start. But if you pour that warm epoxy into a cold mold sitting on a cold table in a 55-degree studio, the mold wins. It pulls the heat out of the resin immediately, and you’re right back to cold, thick epoxy full of stubborn bubbles. Why not just crank up the heat? You could turn your studio up to 75–80°F and leave it there all day. That will definitely help, but it comes with downsides: High heating costs, especially if your space is large Uncomfortable working conditions after a few hours Uneven warmth in big or drafty rooms Instead of heating every cubic foot of air in your space, a smarter strategy is to warm the epoxy and the molds themselves. Warm from underneath: simple solutions Targeted, gentle heat under your molds and work surface keeps your resin in the sweet spot without roasting you or your electric bill. Here are practical ways to do it: Seed-starting heat mats (2′ x 4′ style) Great for: multiple small molds or trays Benefits: Provides a broad, evenly heated surface Often includes a thermostat and probe so you can set and maintain a consistent temperature Affordable and widely available online How to use: Place a silicone mat or board on top of the heat mat Arrange your molds on that surface and let them warm up before pouring Use an infrared thermometer to verify you’re in your target range Reptile heating pads Great for: one or a few molds at a time Benefits: Compact and low wattage Some include basic temperature control or can pair with a standalone thermostat How to use: Place the pad under your mold board, not directly under thin silicone alone, to avoid hot spots Check the surface temperature with an IR gun and adjust as needed Tiny low-watt pads for single molds Great for: test pours, small memorial pieces, or one-off molds Benefits: Very low power draw Keeps a single mold in the ideal range for bubble release and curing In each case, the goal is consistent, gentle warmth—not hot spots. Lifting your molds slightly (on a board or cooling rack) and using a mat beneath helps distribute heat more evenly across the entire piece. Scaling up: build a heated epoxy table If you are running a busy studio or production shop, a heated table can be a game changer. Instead of managing multiple small mats, you turn an entire work surface into a controlled, warm “hot box” for your projects. A typical setup looks like this: In-floor heating wire laid out in a grid pattern Sensor probe embedded in the middle of the panel Dedicated thermostat mounted nearby Heating grid sandwiched between two sheets of MDF or similar board This creates a flat, durable work surface that you can set to a specific temperature and hold there. You can: Pre-warm boards, molds, and resin containers before you pour Keep large projects warm and stable while they cure overnight Run several tables from a single thermostat by using longer heating cable (within electrical limits), making it a very efficient system Because these systems are typically in the hundred–hundreds of watts (not thousands), they offer a surprisingly inexpensive way to keep your epoxy projects in the ideal working range without trying to turn your whole building into a sauna. Practical winter workflow Combine these habits for reliable winter results: Warm the resin and the molds before mixing and pouring. Use targeted under-heat (mats or heated tables) instead of blasting the whole room. Monitor temperatures with an infrared thermometer for consistency. Allow extra curing time—cold still slows the reaction, even with good heat management. Manage the temperature where it matters—at the resin and the mold—and winter becomes a season of smooth pours, clear casts, and far fewer surprises. TRANSCRIPT Hi, it’s Tim with iCoat. We’re in the winter months now, so instead of battling exothermic reactions like we often do in the summer, the main issue is epoxy that’s too cold and doesn’t release bubbles very well. We’ve talked extensively about warming the epoxy to a good working temperature, and many of you are already doing that. However, if your studio is 55–60 degrees and you pour warm epoxy into a cold mold, that mold will immediately pull the heat out of the resin. The epoxy cools down right away and can’t release bubbles properly, which leads to cloudy, imperfect casts. There are a few ways to solve this. You could turn the whole studio up to 75–80 degrees, but that’s expensive and uncomfortable to work in for hours. A much better approach is to warm the molds and the work surface from underneath. There are several tools that work well for this: On the medium scale, there are seed-starting heat mats you can buy online. A common size is about 2 feet by 4 feet, and they’re reasonably priced. They can hold a lot of molds and usually come with a thermostat and
What is the difference between epoxy vs resin?
What is the difference between epoxy vs resin? We could delve into the technicalities of how resins and epoxies are different and that the terms should not be used interchangeably, but we won’t. In the art industry, the terms “resin” and “epoxy” are typically used to refer to a two-component epoxy system that includes an epoxy resin (part A) and a hardener (part B). Just for some basic knowledge, all epoxies are resins, but not all resins are epoxies. Resins are all viscous liquids that, when combined with a hardener, create a chemical reaction that turns the components into a solid. Resins comprise a wide variety of polymers, including synthetic and natural. Resins can be natural, polyester, vinyl ester, polyurethane, or epoxy-based, and all have their own unique performance properties. As we discussed, here at iCoat, you can call our products epoxy, resin, or even epoxy resin, and we will know what you mean. Still have questions? We are here to help. Call, Text, or Email.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Local Artisan Creates Custom Resin Table for Caterpillar’s New Camelback Office
A one-of-a-kind art installation blends craftsmanship, miniature engineering, and deep-pour resin design. Phoenix, AZ Dec 11th, 2025 — iCoat, a leading provider of professional-grade epoxy products, announces that a stunning new centerpiece has been unveiled this week at a private executive reveal at Caterpillar’s Camelback office: a custom-built resin table featuring a hyper-realistic miniature jobsite scene created by iCoat artisan Lumberlust Designs. The project began when Caterpillar’s creative team approached Lumberlust Designs in September with an intriguing challenge, transform their AI-generated concept art into a fully realized, physical statement piece. The result is a precision-crafted table showcasing die-cast CAT® machinery immersed in a flawlessly clear deep-pour resin layer, capturing the dynamic feel of a jobsite frozen in time. Pictures and video are available here. Creating the realistic terrain proved to be one of the most technically demanding stages. iCoat’s proprietary cement, Texture, was used to create the environment of a quarry. Ryan Walsh of Lumberlust Designs sculpted detailed ground features, including dug trenches and accurate track impressions, before staging the miniature excavator and tractor models exactly as they would appear in the field. Every component required meticulous preparation to ensure the deep resin pour remained crystal clear and bubble-free. iCoat’s USA-made, eco-friendly epoxies have a reputation for clarity and bubble release, making them the professionals’ choice for preservation and industrial use on countertops and flooring. “This build pushed the limits of what’s possible with resin art,” says Walsh, the designer behind the project. “Turning an AI rendering into a real, tangible piece of art was an exciting challenge, and we believe the final result truly surpasses the digital concept.” Lumberlust Designs specializes in custom epoxy and resin installations, branded corporate art pieces, and bespoke furniture designs. Since 2016, the studio has produced unique handcrafted works for clients across industries, and is currently accepting new commissions. www.lumberlust.comInstagram: @lumberlust_designs About iCoat Epoxy For over 35 years, iCoat has provided professional-grade epoxy products to artists, craftspeople, and creators worldwide. Trusted by professionals and loved by artists, we offer the most variants of epoxy resin to ensure you get the right product for the right job. Our formulations are crystal-clear and UV-resistant, delivering professional-grade performance that’s strong, smooth, and self-leveling. As an eco-friendly, Made in the USA company, we’re precision-formulated in OSHA-regulated plants and batch-tested for quality. Beyond exceptional products, we provide training, support, community, and experience to help you pour, perfect, and profit. iCoat Epoxy (https://icoatepoxy.com/): The Clear Choice for Artists Who Expect More. ###
iCoat Announces Bupp Woodworks & Designs as Winner of Landmark HV Ultra Epoxy Giveaway Competition
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE iCoat Announces Bupp Woodworks & Designs as Winner of Landmark HV Ultra Epoxy Giveaway Competition Phoenix, Ariz. Nov 18th, 2025. iCoat, a leading provider of professional-grade epoxy products, today announced that Bupp Woodworks & Designs was one of the joint first-place winners of the highly successful HV Ultra Epoxy Giveaway Competition, which attracted hundreds of participants from the artisan and creative community. The announcement was made during a special episode of the Resin Mastery podcast, hosted by Ian and Rachel. The competition, designed to celebrate the launch of iCoat’s new high-performance HV Ultra epoxy, offered substantial prizes, including cash and gallons of free epoxy to multiple winners. The contest was open to both existing customers and newcomers who registered through social media platforms or the company website. “We were absolutely thrilled by the massive response and community enthusiasm. Tina and her team at Bupp did an amazing job promoting their preservation creations,” said Tim, CEO of iCoat. “The energy surrounding the HV Ultra launch exceeded our expectations, and seeing the creativity and dedication of our community has been incredibly inspiring.” Bupp Woodworks & Designs is a McHenry, Illinois-based business run by wife and husband team Tina and Trevor Bupp, specializing in professional flower preservation, fine woodworking, and resin artwork. Their online presence on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram (@bupp_woodworks) has an impressive 112K followers, showing significant engagement and reach in the flower preservation and resin art community. Social Media Engagement Drives Competition Success The competition leveraged social media engagement across Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, where participants connected with iCoat through collaborations, tags, stories, and tutorial videos. We also introduced the iCoat Epoxy Tools Group on Facebook. This created a vibrant, creative ecosystem that benefited all participants through amplified outreach. Winners Selected Based on Engagement and Random Selection The top three winners were selected based on their social media engagement, while places four through ten were randomly selected. Prize packages included: 1st Place: 20 gallons of Epoxy 2nd Place: 10 gallons of Epoxy 3rd Place: 5 gallons of Epoxy 4th-10th Place: 2-gallon kits each In a personal touch, the grand prize winner also gets paid to preserve Rachel’s wedding bouquet. The Top 10 Winners Are: We had joint 1st Place Winners as it was too close to call: Tina Bupp – Bupp Woodworks and Designs Rachael Croxall – Blossom & Rhyme 3rd Place: Valerie Dado – Val D Resin Additional Winners (4th-10th): 4th: Kerry Nicklaus – Rememberable Resin 5th: Cara Furman – Cara Eve Designs 6th: Yolanda Schrowe – Forever Florals 7th: Cassidy Frederick – Cassidy Rose Creative 8th: Heba Salama – Heba Salama Photography 9th: Ebony Whitson – WWP Design and Decor 10th: Leah Barden – Leah Agnes Designs “The craftsmanship and engagement from each winner truly reflected the spirit of the iCoat community,” said Rachel, Resin Mastery co-host. “We’re grateful to everyone who participated and supported us throughout the first year of Resin Mastery.” For more information about the competition winners and to listen to the full announcement episode, visit the Resin Mastery podcast. About HV Ultra Epoxy HV Ultra is iCoat’s newest high-performance epoxy product, designed to meet the needs of artists working in diverse applications, including flower preservation, jewelry, charcuterie boards, and various other artistic projects. The product brings enhanced creative potential to both professional artisans and hobbyists, with the potential to pour up to 50% more on each layer, providing faster time to value. About iCoat Epoxy For over 35 years, iCoat has provided professional-grade epoxy products to artists, craftspeople, and creators worldwide. Trusted by professionals and loved by artists, we offer the most variants of epoxy resin to ensure you get the right product for the right job. Our formulations are crystal-clear and UV-resistant, delivering professional-grade performance that’s strong, smooth, and self-leveling. As an eco-friendly, Made in the USA company, we’re precision-formulated in OSHA-regulated plants and batch-tested for quality. Beyond exceptional products, we provide training, support, community, and experience to help you pour, perfect, and profit. iCoat Epoxy: The Clear Choice for Artists Who Expect More. For more information, contact: iCoat Products, Inc. 1519 W Grant St. Phoenix, AZ 85007 Office: (877) 669-1110 or Direct: (602) 258-1114 Media Contact: Ian Faith ianfaith@globalcreativegroup.com t: 877.855.6755
iCoat Announces Blossom & Rhyme as Winner of Landmark HV Ultra Epoxy Giveaway Competition
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE iCoat Announces Blossom & Rhyme as Winner of Landmark HV Ultra Epoxy Giveaway Competition Phoenix, Ariz. Nov 18th, 2025. iCoat, a leading provider of professional-grade epoxy products, today announced that Blossom & Rhyme was one of the joint first-place winners of the highly successful HV Ultra Epoxy Giveaway Competition, which attracted hundreds of participants from the artisan and creative community. The announcement was made during a special episode of the Resin Mastery podcast, hosted by Ian and Rachel. The competition, designed to celebrate the launch of iCoat’s new high-performance HV Ultra epoxy, offered substantial prizes, including cash and gallons of free epoxy to multiple winners. The contest was open to both existing customers and newcomers who registered through social media platforms or the company website. “We were absolutely thrilled by the massive response and community enthusiasm. Rachael Croxall and her team at Blossom and Rhyme did an amazing job promoting their preservation creations,” said Tim, CEO of iCoat. “The energy surrounding the HV Ultra launch exceeded our expectations, and seeing the creativity and dedication of our community has been incredibly inspiring.” Blossom & Rhyme is a leading floral preservation studio based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, specializing in weddings, events, and storytelling through flowers. It’s a nationally recognized brand and the most-followed floral preservation company on social media, with over 80 million video views. Today, Blossom & Rhyme has expanded to a large workspace of 6,000 square feet and employs 20 people, including Rachael and her husband Social Media Engagement Drives Competition Success The competition leveraged social media engagement across Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, where participants connected with iCoat through collaborations, tags, stories, and tutorial videos. We also introduced the iCoat Epoxy Tools Group on Facebook. This created a vibrant, creative ecosystem that benefited all participants through amplified outreach. Winners Selected Based on Engagement and Random Selection The top three winners were selected based on their social media engagement, while places four through ten were randomly selected. Prize packages included: 1st Place: 20 gallons of Epoxy 2nd Place: 10 gallons of Epoxy 3rd Place: 5 gallons of Epoxy 4th-10th Place: 2-gallon kits each In a personal touch, the grand prize winner also gets paid to preserve Rachel’s wedding bouquet. The Top 10 Winners Are: We had joint 1st Place Winners as it was too close to call: Rachael Croxall – Blossom & Rhyme Tina Bupp – Bupp Woodworks and Designs 3rd Place: Valerie Dado – Val D Resin Additional Winners (4th-10th): 4th: Kerry Nicklaus – Rememberable Resin 5th: Cara Furman – Cara Eve Designs 6th: Yolanda Schrowe – Forever Florals 7th: Cassidy Frederick – Cassidy Rose Creative 8th: Heba Salama – Heba Salama Photography 9th: Ebony Whitson – WWP Design and Decor 10th: Leah Barden – Leah Agnes Designs “The craftsmanship and engagement from each winner truly reflected the spirit of the iCoat community,” said Rachel, Resin Mastery co-host. “We’re grateful to everyone who participated and supported us throughout the first year of Resin Mastery.” To listen to the full announcement episode, visit the Resin Mastery podcast. About HV Ultra Epoxy HV Ultra is iCoat’s newest high-performance epoxy product, designed to meet the needs of artists working in diverse applications, including flower preservation, jewelry, charcuterie boards, and various other artistic projects. The product brings enhanced creative potential to both professional artisans and hobbyists, with the potential to pour up to 50% more on each layer, providing faster time to value. About iCoat Epoxy For over 35 years, iCoat has provided professional-grade epoxy products to artists, craftspeople, and creators worldwide. Trusted by professionals and loved by artists, we offer the most variants of epoxy resin to ensure you get the right product for the right job. Our formulations are crystal-clear and UV-resistant, delivering professional-grade performance that’s strong, smooth, and self-leveling. As an eco-friendly, Made in the USA company, we’re precision-formulated in OSHA-regulated plants and batch-tested for quality. Beyond exceptional products, we provide training, support, community, and experience to help you pour, perfect, and profit. iCoat Epoxy: The Clear Choice for Artists Who Expect More. For more information, contact: iCoat Products, Inc. 1519 W Grant St. Phoenix, AZ 85007 Office: (877) 669-1110 or Direct: (602) 258-1114 Media Contact: Ian Faith ianfaith@globalcreativegroup.com t: 877.855.6755
iCoat Announces Val D Resin as 3rd Place Winner of Landmark HV Ultra Epoxy Giveaway Competition
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE iCoat Announces Val D Resin as 3rd Place Winner of Landmark HV Ultra Epoxy Giveaway Competition Phoenix, Ariz. Nov 18th, 2025. iCoat, a leading provider of professional-grade epoxy products, today announced that Val D Resin was the third-place winner of the highly successful HV Ultra Epoxy Giveaway Competition, which attracted hundreds of participants from the artisan and creative community. The announcement was made during a special episode of the Resin Mastery podcast, hosted by Ian and Rachel. The competition, designed to celebrate the launch of iCoat’s new high-performance HV Ultra epoxy, offered substantial prizes, including cash and gallons of free epoxy to multiple winners. The contest was open to both existing customers and newcomers who registered through social media platforms or the company website. “We were absolutely thrilled by the massive response and community enthusiasm. Valerie Dado is an up-and-coming preservation artisan; she did an amazing job promoting her preservation creations,” said Tim, CEO of iCoat. “The energy surrounding the HV Ultra launch exceeded our expectations, and seeing the creativity and dedication of our community has been incredibly inspiring.” Val D Resin, run by solo artist Valerie Dado in West Bloomfield, MI, specializes in flower preservation, gifts, and home décor. With over three years of experience, she accepts floral orders for all occasions, weddings, memorials, graduations, communions, and more, working with fresh, pre-dried, and artificial flowers. She is also skilled in creating non-floral pieces such as marbled charcuterie boards, children’s night lights, and jewelry trays. After 14 years as a dental hygienist, Valerie transitioned fully into resin artistry and has built an active presence in the resin community through her Instagram, 1,623 followers (@valdresin). Her perfectionist nature and eye for aesthetic detail shape every piece she creates. Flower preservation and resin art are her creative outlets, and she has spent years perfecting her craft to provide the highest quality for her brand. Each item that leaves her studio carries a piece of her heart, carefully curated to tell her clients’ stories through timeless, handcrafted art. When someone trusts in Val D Resin, they are investing in a work of art designed to last. Social Media Engagement Drives Competition Success The competition leveraged social media engagement across Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, where participants connected with iCoat through collaborations, tags, stories, and tutorial videos. We also introduced the iCoat Epoxy Tools Group on Facebook. This created a vibrant, creative ecosystem that benefited all participants through amplified outreach. Winners Selected Based on Engagement and Random Selection The top three winners were selected based on their social media engagement, while places four through ten were randomly selected. Prize packages included: 1st Place: 20 gallons of Epoxy 2nd Place: 10 gallons of Epoxy 3rd Place: 5 gallons of Epoxy 4th-10th Place: 2-gallon kits each In a personal touch, the grand prize winner also gets paid to preserve Rachel’s wedding bouquet. The Top 10 Winners Are: We had joint 1st Place Winners as it was too close to call: Rachael Croxall – Blossom & Rhyme Tina Bupp – Bupp Woodworks and Designs 3rd Place: Valerie Dado – Val D Resin Additional Winners (4th-10th): 4th: Kerry Nicklaus – Rememberable Resin 5th: Cara Furman – Cara Eve Designs 6th: Yolanda Schrowe – Forever Florals 7th: Cassidy Frederick – Cassidy Rose Creative 8th: Heba Salama – Heba Salama Photography 9th: Ebony Whitson – WWP Design and Decor 10th: Leah Barden – Leah Agnes Designs “The craftsmanship and engagement from each winner truly reflected the spirit of the iCoat community,” said Rachel, Resin Mastery co-host. “We’re grateful to everyone who participated and supported us throughout the first year of Resin Mastery.” To listen to the full announcement episode, visit the Resin Mastery podcast. About HV Ultra Epoxy HV Ultra is iCoat’s newest high-performance epoxy product, designed to meet the needs of artists working in diverse applications, including flower preservation, jewelry, charcuterie boards, and various other artistic projects. The product brings enhanced creative potential to both professional artisans and hobbyists, with the potential to pour up to 50% more on each layer, providing faster time to value. About iCoat Epoxy For over 35 years, iCoat has provided professional-grade epoxy products to artists, craftspeople, and creators worldwide. Trusted by professionals and loved by artists, we offer the most variants of epoxy resin to ensure you get the right product for the right job. Our formulations are crystal-clear and UV-resistant, delivering professional-grade performance that’s strong, smooth, and self-leveling. As an eco-friendly, Made in the USA company, we’re precision-formulated in OSHA-regulated plants and batch-tested for quality. Beyond exceptional products, we provide training, support, community, and experience to help you pour, perfect, and profit. iCoat Epoxy: The Clear Choice for Artists Who Expect More. For more information, contact: iCoat Products, Inc. 1519 W Grant St. Phoenix, AZ 85007 Office: (877) 669-1110 or Direct: (602) 258-1114 Media Contact: Ian Faith ianfaith@globalcreativegroup.com t: 877.855.6755
iCoat Announces Winners of Landmark HV Ultra Epoxy Giveaway Competition
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE iCoat Announces Winners of Landmark HV Ultra Epoxy Giveaway Competition Special Resin Mastery Podcast Episode Reveals Top 10 Winners from Hundreds of Entries Across Artisan Community Phoenix, Ariz. Nov 18th, 2025. iCoat, a leading provider of professional-grade epoxy products, today announced the winners of its highly successful HV Ultra Epoxy Giveaway Competition, which attracted hundreds of participants from the artisan and creative community. The announcement was made during a special episode of the Resin Mastery podcast, hosted by Ian and Rachel. The competition, designed to celebrate the launch of iCoat’s new high-performance HV Ultra epoxy, offered substantial prizes, including cash and gallons of free epoxy to multiple winners. The contest was open to both existing customers and newcomers who registered through social media platforms or the company website. “We were absolutely thrilled by the massive response and community enthusiasm,” said Tim, CEO of iCoat. “The energy surrounding the HV Ultra launch exceeded our expectations, and seeing the creativity and dedication of our community has been incredibly inspiring.” Social Media Engagement Drives Competition Success The competition leveraged social media engagement across Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, where participants connected with iCoat through collaborations, tags, stories, and tutorial videos. This created a vibrant, creative ecosystem that benefited all participants through amplified outreach. We also introduced the iCoat Epoxy Tools Group on Facebook. Winners Selected Based on Engagement and Random Selection The top three winners were selected based on their social media engagement, while places four through ten were randomly selected. Prize packages included: 1st Place: 20 gallons of Epoxy 2nd Place: 10 gallons of Epoxy 3rd Place: 5 gallons of Epoxy 4th-10th Place: 2-gallon kits each In a personal touch, the grand prize winner also gets paid to preserve Rachel’s wedding bouquet. The Top 10 Winners Are: We had joint 1st Place Winners as it was too close to call: Tina Bupp – Bupp Woodworks and Designs Rachael Croxall – Blossom & Rhyme 3rd Place: Valerie Dado – Val D Resin Additional Winners (4th-10th): 4th: Kerry Nicklaus – Rememberable Resin 5th: Cara Furman – Cara Eve Designs 6th: Yolanda Schrowe – Forever Florals 7th: Cassidy Frederick – Cassidy Rose Creative 8th: Heba Salama – Heba Salama Photography 9th: Ebony Whitson – WWP Design and Decor 10th: Leah Barden – Leah Agnes Designs “The craftsmanship and engagement from each winner truly reflected the spirit of the iCoat community,” said Rachel, Resin Mastery co-host. “We’re grateful to everyone who participated and supported us throughout the first year of Resin Mastery.” For more information about the competition winners and to listen to the full announcement episode, visit the Resin Mastery podcast. About HV Ultra Epoxy HV Ultra is iCoat’s newest high-performance epoxy product, designed to meet the needs of artists working in diverse applications, including flower preservation, jewelry, charcuterie boards, and various other artistic projects. The product brings enhanced creative potential to both professional artisans and hobbyists, with the potential to pour up to 50% more on each layer, providing faster time to value. About iCoat Epoxy For over 35 years, iCoat has provided professional-grade epoxy products to artists, craftspeople, and creators worldwide. Trusted by professionals and loved by artists, we offer the most variants of epoxy resin to ensure you get the right product for the right job. Our formulations are crystal-clear and UV-resistant, delivering professional-grade performance that’s strong, smooth, and self-leveling. As an eco-friendly, Made in the USA company, we’re precision-formulated in OSHA-regulated plants and batch-tested for quality. Beyond exceptional products, we provide training, support, community, and experience to help you pour, perfect, and profit. iCoat Epoxy: The Clear Choice for Artists Who Expect More. For more information, contact: iCoat Products, Inc. 1519 W Grant St. Phoenix, AZ 85007 Office: (877) 669-1110 or Direct: (602) 258-1114 Media Contact: Ian Faith ianfaith@globalcreativegroup.com t: 877.855.6755
Different Types of Epoxy Resin
The Different Types of Epoxy Resin — And Why iCoat Is the Best Choice for Artists If you’ve ever poured epoxy resin over a canvas, tabletop, or jewelry piece and watched it harden into a crystal-clear, glossy surface, you know the magic of this versatile material. Epoxy makes colors pop, protects surfaces, and gives your art that professional look. But here’s the thing: not all epoxy resin is created equal. There are several types, each with different properties. Knowing which type to use can save you time, money, and headaches — and make your artwork last longer without yellowing or cracking. Whether you’re making a river table, jewelry, or resin art coasters, this guide will help you understand the basics — and show why iCoat Epoxy is trusted by professional artists around the world. What Is Epoxy Resin? Epoxy resin is made of two parts: Resin (the base) Hardener (the activator) When you mix them, a chemical reaction begins, and over time, the mixture cures into a strong, glossy plastic. The type of resin and hardener you choose affects clarity, curing time, flexibility, and UV resistance — all important for creating long-lasting, beautiful art. The Main Types of Epoxy Resin for Artists Here’s a simple breakdown of the types of epoxy resin you’ll encounter, and what they’re best for: A little technical, but see what we deal with! Type Key Features Best For Bisphenol A (Bis-A) Strong, clear, general-purpose Tabletops, coasters, art pours Bisphenol F (Bis-F) Thinner, more chemical-resistant High-traffic surfaces, large art pieces Aliphatic Epoxy UV-resistant, stays crystal-clear Jewelry, river tables, outdoor art Novolac Epoxy Heat and chemical-resistant Specialty or functional art Cycloaliphatic Epoxy Weather-resistant and durable Outdoor art, resin lighting pieces Epoxy Hybrids (like Epoxy Acrylate) Fast-curing, sometimes UV-cured Small detailed art projects Most artist-grade resins are blends of Bis-A and Aliphatic epoxy, which give you clarity, UV resistance, and a smooth, glossy finish. The Hardener Makes a Difference The hardener you use is just as important as the resin. Fast-cure hardeners are perfect for small projects or thin pours. Slow-cure hardeners are ideal for deep pours, larger pieces, or when you need more working time to create effects. Choosing the right combination ensures bubble-free pours, crystal-clear clarity, and long-lasting results, exactly what artists want. Why iCoat Epoxy Is the Top Choice for Artists There are many resin brands on the market, but iCoat Epoxy stands out because it offers the largest professional range for artists and creators. Here’s why: Artist-focused formulas: iCoat resins are crystal-clear, self-leveling, and easy to work with, making them perfect for art pours, coasters, jewelry, and river tables. UV-resistant: Their resins resist yellowing over time, keeping your colors vibrant and whites bright. Versatility: iCoat has a resin for every creative project, from deep pours and tabletops to fine-detail art pieces. Professional quality, easy to use: You don’t have to be a chemist; iCoat’s formulas are consistent, reliable, and safe for artists. Support and resources: iCoat offers tutorials, workshops, and technical advice to help artists improve their resin skills and finish projects like a pro. The Bottom Line If you’re looking for the best epoxy resin for art, it’s important to understand the type of resin you’re using. Different resins give different results in clarity, curing time, flexibility, and UV resistance. For professional results, iCoat Epoxy is a brand that artists can trust. With their wide range of professional-grade resins, UV protection, and artist-focused formulas, your resin projects will stay vibrant, glossy, and durable for years to come. We are here to answer all your different types of epoxy resin questions. (602) 258-1114