There’s something magical about resin art.
It glimmers, it swirls, it captures color like glass, and it freezes time in glossy, touchable beauty. Whether it’s a glitter-drenched tumbler, a sleek writing pen, or a dreamy tray sealed in shine, resin has a way of catching your eye and making you wonder…
Could I do that?
If you’ve ever paused your scroll to marvel at a resin pour video, if you’ve been quietly admiring shimmering creations on Etsy, if the idea of making something functional and fabulous calls to you…
We’re here to tell you something important.
Yes. You absolutely can do that.
And what’s more, you deserve the time and space to learn how.
Why Resin? Why Now?
Resin is having a moment—and it’s easy to see why.
It’s accessible. It’s bold. It’s endlessly creative.
From jewelry makers and DIYers to weekend hobbyists and full-time artists, people everywhere fall in love with this medium that combines craft, chemistry, and a little sparkle.
Here’s why resin is such a perfect playground for beginners:
- It’s customizable – You can embed glitter, flowers, photos, pigment powders, or bold colors to create one-of-a-kind results.
- It’s useful—Resin isn’t just pretty—it’s functional. You can make tumblers, trays, pens, coasters, keychains, and more.
- It’s satisfying – Watching resin flow and cure is soothing and deeply rewarding.
-
It’s forgiving – Mistakes often become part of the art. You’ll learn by doing, and improve quickly with guidance.
But here’s the truth: resin can be a little tricky to learn on your own. There’s chemistry involved—ratios, cure times, temperatures, bubbles, safety measures—and it helps so much to have someone experienced show you the ropes.
That’s why we created the Shimmer and Shine Resin Art Retreat.
Resin for Beginners: Guided, Supportive, and Hands-On
You don’t need any experience to fall in love with resin—you just need a little guidance and a place to begin.
That’s what this retreat is all about.
Led by experienced resin artist Paige Yates and hosted by Big Raven founder Joleen Emery, this joyful, beginner-focused retreat will give you the skills and confidence to start your resin journey on solid ground.
You’ll learn how to:
-
Make your own shimmering resin tumblers
-
Create gorgeous, giftable resin writing pens
-
Work with fast-cast resin to make molded pieces like keychains and ornaments
-
Do protective resin pours for trays, coasters, and tabletops
-
Understand safety tips, curing techniques, and troubleshooting tricks
-
Set up a resin workspace at home so you can keep creating long after the weekend ends
And most importantly? You’ll be guided every step of the way.
You won’t be left guessing, overwhelmed by options, or worried about getting it “wrong.” This retreat is designed to be warm, welcoming, and beginner-friendly—because learning new things should be fun.
What It’s Like to Learn at Big Raven Farm
Let’s talk about the setting—because it matters.
Big Raven Farm is a creative sanctuary nestled in Minnesota’s Driftless Region. With its rolling hills, wooded trails, and wide-open skies, this landscape invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and return to yourself.
You’ll be staying in our charming, art-filled country estate—often described by guests as magical. Here, creativity isn’t just encouraged—it’s part of the atmosphere. You’ll be surrounded by inspiring artwork, natural beauty, and people who believe in the power of making things with your hands.
Each day begins with optional gentle yoga in our light-filled studio, led by Joleen. These classes are designed to help you ground yourself, shake off any stress, and open up creatively.
You’ll eat like royalty thanks to Chef Darin Warling, our in-house chef (and Joleen’s husband). Darin prepares every meal from scratch, using fresh local ingredients and an artist’s attention to flavor and detail. Expect nourishing breakfasts, satisfying lunches, and beautifully plated dinners that make you feel cared for and seen.
And in between? You’ll be making. Pouring. Playing. Laughing. Shining.
A Weekend to Reconnect With What You Love
This isn’t just about learning a new skill—it’s about giving yourself permission to play again.
To slow down.
To try something new.
To be curious, messy, creative, and delighted.
It’s a reminder that you don’t need to be an “artist” to make art.
You don’t need to be perfect to try something new.
You just need to say yes.
You deserve time for yourself.
You deserve to get away from the endless to-do lists.
You deserve a weekend that’s all about creativity, connection, beauty—and maybe a little glitter.
So grab a friend, or come solo and meet new ones.
Wear your coziest sweater.
Bring your sparkle-loving heart.
We’ll take care of everything else.
Retreat Details at a Glance
🗓️ When: October 16–19, 2025
📍 Where: Big Raven Farm, Spring Grove, Minnesota
🎨 What You’ll Learn: Resin tumblers, pens, fast-cast resin, surface pours
👩🏫 Taught by: Paige Yates + Joleen Emery
🧘 Optional yoga, daily art studio time, beautiful meals, and creative connection
✨Click here to reserve your spot →
Spots are limited so we can keep the experience personal and meaningful.
Read firsthand stories and reviews from past retreat guests right here. Click to explore their experiences.
You Were Made to Shine
Resin reminds us that even when things swirl and shift, when we mix colors we didn’t expect, when things get messy—beauty always finds its way through.
This retreat is an invitation.
To learn something new.
To let yourself shine.
To create something you didn’t know you could.
And we’ll be right here to guide you.
We hope you’ll join us.