* Basic Resin Casting
Resin
Measuring Tools
Disposable Mixing bowl or cup
Disposable tools
Suitable mold
Cooking Spray
Straw
Items for Embedding
Resins:
Polyester Resin: is a liquid plastic that hardens when a few drops of the catalyst are added to create a chemical reaction. Polyester Resin is durable and is the resin of choice for industrial applications and serious crafters who are experienced in resin casting. This resin is highly toxic and should be used in a well ventilated area using protective masks to avoid inhalation. One main advantage of Polyester Resin is the depth in which it can be poured for larger embed projects. Polyester Resin is cheaper to buy than Epoxy resin as it is generally purchased in larger quantities such as 1lt + tins.
Epoxy Resin: These resins are more frequently used in the crafting and hobby world, they are easy to use with a low toxicity, making them suitable for ventilated craft rooms and work areas. Epoxy resin is perfect for jewelry casting as it has a shallow setting depth, so it will cure quickly when used correctly.
Epoxy resins come in two parts: resin and hardener. The two parts must be mixed in the precise ratio given in the manufacturer's instructions. Imprecise measuring and mixing prevents the epoxy resin from solidifying or curing. Epoxy resin is also self leveling, giving your project a glass like finish without too much technique. More expensive than the polyester resin but a great way to get started for a small batch of projects.
Always handle resins with care, and follow the proper use that is recommended by the manufacturer.
Pigments and Dyes: These come in liquids, powders and pastes . You will need to purchase color dyes that are suitable for your brand of resin. Dye's are added during the mixing process.
Molds:
Dimensional Molds: These are molds that create a 3D object, such as a heart shaped pendant, bangle or coaster etc. Latex and Plastic Molds can be purchased for resin casting or you can make your own molds, or use items you have around the home.
Latex molds: These are great to use as the flexibility of them means you can literally POP out your resin cast. You may need to experiment with your resin as some resins require a little extra hardener to cure in a latex mold due to the fact that the temperature of the resin is effected because of the latex.
Plastic molds: You can use store bought chocolate molds, specific pendant molds or other similar molds. again these are great to use due to the flexibility.
Home molds: Ice cube trays work well for pendants, chocolate box inlays are a great source of small rounded molds. You can use any durable (heat proof) plastic item you find in your home. You can also use inflexible molds that can be cut or broken away from the casting, such as a glass jar or plastic lunch container.
Mold Release: If you are using a flexible mold there really is not need to add a mold release agent. However a perfect inexpensive release agent is spray cooking oil. Simply give your mold a quick spray and wipe over and it's ready to use.
Flat Objects: You can also pour your resin over flat objects such as scrabble pieces, decorated coasters, trays and flat jewelry pieces.
How to mix: Your resin will come with it's very own set of instructions which you should follow strictly. Basically you will measure the two parts (as per the instructions provided on your product) together and then pour into your mold.
For mixing and measuring use baking spoons and measuring jugs as these will give you an accurate measurement. Wipe out your measuring tools after each use, making sure you have separate tools for the resin and hardener parts.
Plastic disposable bowls, spoons or cups work well as you can discard them after each use. Do not over mix or your resin will be filled with air bubbles. Let your resin rest for a few moments before pouring to avoid extra air.
Air Bubbles: Can be gently tapped out or use a straw and your warm breath to blow over the bubble, this disperses the soft resin and releases the air trapped underneath the surface. Larger projects use a warm setting on your hair dryer or embossing gun.
Embedding items: You can embed all sorts of items to make your resin exciting, from plastic toys to coins, dried foliage and even cake sprinkles.
Photos and Images: Photos and images can easily be embedded into your resin, it is advised to coat your image and photo with a sealer first to prevent the ink dyes from running in your resin. Using white clear drying craft glue is one way to seal your image, you can also use a spray varnish or other archival sealer. Make sure it is completely dried before pouring.
Cleanup: If you have spilled your image, use a acetone cleaner, such as nail varnish remover or a methylated spirits before it cures. Cured resin can be chipped away with knifes or chisels. The easiest way to clean up resin is not to spill it in the first place.
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Thank god for you, finally clear instructions I can understand. I had given up on attempting any sort of project with resin because there were to many unanswered questions I had about it all, until now !!! More visuals would be great ! Thank you
Cool! Thanks. I did not even know jewelry had anything to do with resins.
The amount of catalyst to resin is confusing on the can. Cannot find a simple table of how much catalyst to resin. Using Castin'craft clear liquid plastic casting resin.
Have not been able to get started.
awesome information. i will definitely bookmark this for my future resin project!
thank you! this is one of the only instructional pieces i've read on making resin jewelry and, as a beginner, i have a much better idea of what i need to do to get started.
Good info, I have been looking for good directions since I bought my resin mix last week!
I have been reading about making resin items. I would like to make my own silicone molds. I do not know where to buy silicone and casting resin in South Africa. Can someone please help and let me know by placing comments on this project.
Very clear explanation for beginners
Thank you. You did a wonderful job explaining...everything.
Thank you for giving info on using pictures with resin.
Good information...
ditto on more pictures.
i wanted to see how the final product looked like :(
If your using measuring spoons are you really getting the exact amount needed?
It's great to see others using resin to create something too! I would like to know if you have ever tried to make molds for round beads or the squatter round beads?
Nice!
REally helpful!! thanks!
Good basic info, as others have said, more pictures of the process and of a finished product. Also, a definition for "well ventilated" workspace -for example is it open windows or, if working in winter, a fan?
Very good information! I wish there were more pictures.
Clear, very informative - Thanks so much!
Excellent article!
very helpful
Great info !
These are great instructions for beginning use on resin casts. thanks
thanx alot =)
very good but i wish there were more pictures
Thank you, I was curious about sealing the dried foliage and getting it attached to the base. WHite glue was exactly the answer I was looking for, thank you!
This addressed most of my questions for a project I want to begin.
awesome, wonderful information. Can't wait to begin project.
Thank you. Not much info. online. Ordered a book but wont be here for 5 days - I want 2 start now! - Thanks again.
thanks for this,I have wanted to learn how to do this.
I have been wanting to try resin casting. Thank you for the wonderful, in-depth information.
has anyone ever made a poured or spilled liquid using resin if so how?
thanks for great article
Can an object covered in or made of resin be used outside in the elements?
Information is clear and easy to understand
more pictures would help, but great info!
very thorough
great info I have been wanting to try looks fun.
Just what I have been looking for :)
very usefull thank you
Sounds interesting!!
Loved the article! Very informative.