Use a fine mesh insect net with 24-inch handle to catch a dragonfly during peak summer months. Dragonflies are most easily caught in midair as they commonly hover between 3 and 5 feet from the ground. If dragonflies elude you, collect them after they die of natural causes at summer's end. These dragonflies will already be dried and can immediately be mounted in a viewing ball.
Transfer the dragonfly, if he is still alive, into the glass jar and close the lid.
Douse a cotton ball with nail polish remover. The cotton should be wet to the touch but not dripping.
Open the jar carefully and drop the cotton ball inside. Close the lid tightly and leave the jar overnight. The dragonfly will be euthanized.
Remove the dragonfly from the jar and discard the cotton ball.
Allow the dragonfly 24 hours to air-dry in a warm, draft-free location in your home.
Apply white, clear-drying glue to the bottom of the dried dragonfly.
Position the dragonfly in the center of the pocket mirror.
Apply clear caulk to the rim of the glass beta fish tank.
Turn the fish tank upside down over the dragonfly. The caulk on the rim will seal the tank to the pocket mirror.
Coat the inside of one 4-oz. plastic cup thoroughly. Set aside.
Mix the polymer resin and catalyst in the uncoated 4-oz. plastic cup according to the directions on the resin. Mix enough resin to almost completely fill the cup.
Pour half the resin mixture into the greased cup.
Place the dragonfly, bottom up, on top of the resin in the coated cup.
Pour the remaining resin into the coated cup, immersing the dragonfly.
Allow the resin to dry for up to five days then turn the cup upside down and the solid resin, glass-like ball will slide out of the cup. Clean off any shortening and enjoy your crystal clear display.
Purchase a pre-cast glass viewing ball at your local craft or art supply store.
Open the viewing ball. Most pre-made glass viewing balls have bases that twist off.
Apply small drops of white, clear-drying craft glue to the bottom of the dragonfly. This glue has a low acid content and will not burn or otherwise damage the dragonfly.
Position the dragonfly on the base.
Apply a thin bead of glue around the base and reattach the base to the viewing ball.