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Inspiration Behind The Tree of Love
This piece, which I’ve titled The Tree of Love, began as a simple idea-to combine texture, colour and light in one expressive form. In this resin and clay sculpture, I wanted the trunk to feel organic and flowing, while the resin elements would bring brightness and movement to the design.
Building the Base with Air Dry Clay
For the structure, I used DAS air dry clay. I love working with this clay because its easy to shape by hand and lightweight once dry. It allows me to create flowing forms and textured surfaces without the need of a kiln to fire my creations in.
After shaping the trunk and branches, I allowed to dry completely before sanding any rough areas. This creates a clean surface ready to colour and additional detail.
Adding Colour and a Glazed Resin Finish
Once dry, I layered vibrant paints to give the trunk depth and energy. I enjoy blending bold colours together so the piece feels alive and slightly unexpected – no two trees I make ever turn out the same.
To enhance both durability and shine, I then coated the clay trunk in UV resin to create a glossy, protective finish suitable for decorative home display. This gives it a beautiful glazed finish and adds richness to the colour beneath. The resin catches the light and gives the sculpture a luminous, almost glass-like quality.
Working with UV Resin for the Leaves and Flowers
The leaves and floral details were also created using UV resin. I prefer UV resin for smaller sculptured pieces because it cures quickly under a UV lamp and allows me to build up layers with control.
The warm amber tones bring a glowing contrast against the bold blues and pinks of the trunk. Using fine applicator bottles helps me control placement carefully and avoid flooding the surface.
Finishing Touches: Copper Wire and Meaningful Detail
To enhance the sculptural feel, I wrapped sections of the branches with copper wire. This adds both structure and a delicate decorative contrast.
At the centre of the tree sits a small gold heart- the inspiration behind the title The Tree of Love. For me, it represents growth, warmth and connection – how love weaves through everything and holds it together.
Materials Used in This Resin and Clay Sculpture
- DAS Air Dry Clay
- UV Resin
- UV Lamp
- Fine Tip Applicator Bottles
- Copper Wire
(Links to the materials I use can be found on my Tools & Materials Page.)
If you’re new to working with resin, you might also find my Resin Safety for Beginners guide helpful.
This one-of-a-kind sculpture, The Tree of Love, is now available in my Etsy shop.