Resin 101: Getting Started with Resin

Interested in crafting with resin? Here's everything you need to know to get started!

I started working with resin a little over a year ago, and it has become one of my favorite hobbies! For the longest time I was too intimidated to try it - and chances are that you are, too. Everyone has to start somewhere, and I'm here to help. I want to share a "Resin 101" series to show you just how much fun working with resin can be, and give you all of my tips and tricks!

Before buying resin, you need to decide what kinds of projects you want to make. Artwork? Jewelry? Working with molds? Surprisingly, not all resins are the same! Choosing the right resin for your project is important to get the results you want.

Resin comes in two parts: resin and hardener. These two parts MUST be equally combined and mixed precisely for it to cure correctly. Always read the directions before starting your project! Every resin is a little different, and each one comes with instructions to successfully work with resin.

Envirotex Lite is a thicker resin mixture. It's perfect for finishing your project with a smooth surface or a "doming" effect with a high gloss finish. This resin is just what you need for covering artwork, serving trays, or covering to top of tile coasters.

EasyCast is a thinner mixture and is meant to be used for projects 6 oz. or less. It's the best kind of resin to use when working with molds to create jewelry pieces, pendants, charms, coasters, paperweights, knobs, and more.

FastCast is just that - fast! This is urethane casting resin cures in about 10 minutes, and turns white (instead of clear) once it cures. Fast Cast can be drilled, sanded, shaped and painted. It can also be colored opaque pigments and transparent dyes. I like to use this resin in molds to create all kinds of projects!

Now that you have an idea of which kind of resin to use, here are the other resin supplies that I consider essential.

Mixing Cups: Resin mixing cups have measurement lines, which allows you to get those precise measurements on your resin and hardener. Imprecise measuring and/or mixing can prevent the epoxy resin from curing correctly, which means a ruined project!

Stir Sticks: After measuring and combining the resin and hardener, you need to make sure you mix it thoroughly using a clean stir stick.

Gloves: When you are working with resin, you are working with chemicals. Make sure you protect your skin by wearing gloves. Safety glasses are also a good thing to have around! I also recommend protecting your workspace with a silicone mat to make clean-up a breeze.

Resin Molds: There are SO many choices out there, and in almost any shape imaginable! I recommend using molds made of silicone or propylene. I find the majority of my molds on Amazon, Etsy, and even make my own silicone molds!

Mold Release: Molds are an investment, and a mold release and conditioner will prolong the life of your molds. It will also help the resin to be to easily removed once it has cured.

Heat Gun or Lighter: Getting bubbles in your resin is a common occurrence. The trick to removing them is with a little bit of heat!

Resin Colorants: You can easily add color to your resin mixture using transparent dyes, opaque pigments, alcohol inks, mica powders and fine glitter.

Ready to get started?

Here is a fantastic list of resin projects that perfect for beginners! If you’re wanting to try crafting with resin but have felt intimidated, these beginner resin projects are a great place to get started.

As always, I would absolutely LOVE to see your creations! Also, if you have any questions or have any resin project requests, please let me know! I want to this Resin 101 series to help you be a successful resin crafter!

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