How to Use Epoxy Resin in Jewelry
Epoxy resin is suitable for making rings, earrings, pendants and bracelets. The resin cures to a hard, clear plastic. It makes a protective coating over jewelry elements, but its real beauty is as a focal piece. Seal small water-proof objects in the resin so they look as though they are floating in glass. Use anything from hard candies to scrapbooking embellishments as inclusions in your resin jewelry. Resin is easy to work with and even a novice can turn out attractive, professional appearing pieces.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Molds
- Mold-release spray
- Two-part epoxy resin
- Plastic cups
- Craft sticks
- Inclusions
- Box
- Bails
- Glue
- Drill
- Jumprings
Instructions
-
-
1
Spray resin molds with mold-release spray. Wipe off the excess spray and allow the molds to air dry for 15 minutes.
-
2
Mix one part hardener to one part resin. Both are sold together in resin kits from craft stores. Mix in a plastic cup and stir with a craft stick for two minutes.
-
-
3
Pour the resin mixture into a second plastic cup and mix for an additional two minutes. Let it sit for two to three minutes, so the air bubbles rise to the surface and pop .
-
4
Fill the mold halfway with the resin mixture. Allow it to set up for five minutes.
-
5
Place any inclusions in the mold and on top the resin layer. Use any moisture-free and waterproof item as an inclusion.
-
6
Finish filling the mold with resin. Cover the molds with an upside-down box to prevent dust from accumulating on the resin surface.
-
7
Place the molds in a warm, low-humidity room to cure for 24 to 48 hours. Curing times are affected by humidity, so it may take longer if air moisture is high.
-
8
Turn the mold upside down and gently tap it until the resin pieces pop out. Glue necklace bails onto them using jeweler's glue to attach to necklaces and bracelets like charms. Alternately, drill holes through the resin pieces and attach jumprings.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Blow gently on the surface of the resin to pop any air bubbles that rise to the surface.
Seal paper and other items in a waterproof clear coat of paint before using as an inclusion.
Ring and bracelet molds are available from craft and beading stores. These require no additional jewelry findings to create.
Wear gloves and work in a well ventilated room. Cover all work surfaces with newspaper or plastic.
Resin will discolor over time if in direct contact with silver. Coat the silver with a clear paint before pouring resin on it.
