Resin and gilding flake experiments

I had no idea if this would work so I was quite chuffed when it did :)
My previous experiment with flowers had not gone well as you can see. After a few days the flowers had gone all peculiar. I am not sure how to get round this.  Dip the flowers completely in resin first and then add to the piece or use dried flowers?  Any ideas?

But onto the gilding: 

I use Envirotex two part resin.  It's good because it is not as stinky as some.  you add equal portions of the two liquids and stir slowly for a few minutes.  You need to avoid the dreaded air bubbles!

I saw on a Youtube video that placing the resin under a lamp for 5 minutes after stiring, helped it to settle and the heat of the lamp helped the bubbles to pop out, so I did that. 

Here is my mould 

Gilding flakes

First layer of (bubbly) resin in the mould

Adding gilding flakes with a cocktail and mushing them around. 

After creating a full layer on the bottom and sides of the mould I added more resin and a few more gilding flakes to top it off. 

I also tried it in some bezels for a 3D effect. 

Here are my pieces drying

And here are the finished pieces after drying.  I think I am going to make some more in the moulds and do a big statement necklace.  I am also going to try some bezelled rings.