How to Make a 3D Layered Photograph With Epoxy

I to show you how to make this 3D layered photograph of my dog. It involves taking 1 image, cutting out the background and making a print from that and another print from the foreground image. In this example I'm making the frame from scratch but you could easily take an existing frame and do this as long as the depth is over 1/2". That will allow a reservoir for all the epoxy we're about to use.

I'll start off with this photo of my dog in Photoshop. I'll remove the background and export this version. Then I'll remove the foreground and clone in the empty space. You won't need to fill in the entire image like i did in the video as most of that won't be seen upon completion. You just need to clone around the border of the selection. I'll then export out this second image and send them both off to the photo lab for printing.

Now I'll cut 1.5" strips that'll be used as my frame.

Then I'll cut a rabbet that'll hold a 3/16" piece of plywood that'll be used for the back.

I'll cut all the miters using my miter sled.

Using nothing more that painters tape, I glue the four pieces together

I'll then cut out the plywood for the back and glue it in place.

To keep the epoxy from seeping through, I'll put a few strips of tape on the back.

I'll apply a little bit of glue to hold the background photo in place. Spray adhesive would probably work best but I happen to be out.

I'll then thoroughly mix equal parts of the epoxy and coat the background image. You'll want to mix enough resin to add about 1/4" inch on top of the photo. The more you add the greater the 3D effect.

By blowing on the surface you'll raise all the bubbles. You can speed up the process by using a heat gun or butane cooking torch

Now let it dry for at least a few hours and make sure it's level.

I'll then cut out the foreground image and place it right on top of the partially cured epoxy resin.

Mix up another batch and pour it right on top.

As before make sure it's level, bring the air bubbles to the surface and cover it protecting it from dust while it dries for at least 24 hours. Add some finish and some hanging hardware and you're all done!

If you like this project I have all kinds of fun tutorials on my website at drunkenwoodworker.com. As always, be safe and stay passionate.