How to Work With Resin in Crafting
Resin can be either epoxy- or polyester-based, and dries into a clear plastic finish. Resin is used for various effects, including encasing objects in clear plastic for display or jewellery, and finishing surfaces with hard plastic. Some resin types are set by a handheld blowtorch, but clear epoxy-based resin with a 1:1 ratio is a good beginner resin that cures on its own.
Things You'll Need
- Newspaper
- Gloves
- Resin
- Mold or surface to be coated
- Non-waxy plastic cup
- Object for embedding (optional)
- Mold release (optional)
- Resin finishing spray (optional)
- Popsicle sticks
Instructions
-
Preparation
-
1
Lay down the newspaper and put on the gloves. This minimizes spills, since resin can be sticky and difficult to clean.
-
2
Measure the resin and hardener (or catalyst) according to the directions included with the resin.
-
-
3
Mix the resin and hardener in a plastic cup that does not have a wax coating.
Embedding
-
4
Lightly coat the mold with mold release if desired. Pour the resin into the bottom half of the mold.
-
5
Let the resin cure half way so it is solid enough to support the object for embedding, but is still soft. This usually takes about four to eight hours.
-
6
Sit the object on the bottom layer, then pour the resin to fill the mold. Scrape any excess off the top with a popsicle stick. Allow to cure entirely.
-
7
Pop the resin piece out of the mold.
Coating
-
8
Pour the resin in a thin layer over the surface. Spread it slowly using a popsicle stick.
-
9
Scrape the excess resin from the edges using a popsicle stick.
-
10
Allow the resin to cure completely.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Pour the resin slowly and continuously to avoid the formation of air bubbles.
To cut down on waste, have more than one mold prepped for use in case you mix too much resin.
If you wish to tint the resin before use, always use a resin-safe dye from a craft store. Food coloring or other dyes will not mix properly with the resin.
Always mix resin at room temperature in a well ventilated room to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
