The Ultimate Epoxy Resin Buying Guide (Updated for 2024)

Posted on by Katherine Swift
How to choose a resin

You’ve got a project in your head, and epoxy resin is what you need to bring it to life. Now you’re on a mission to buy resin and need someone (or something) to guide you to the right one.

Because you don’t have endless resources or an endless pocket for this project. You want to get it right the first time.

Or maybe you’ve already tried making things with epoxy only to create a sticky, soft, bubble-filled mess.  (Been there done that!)

You can learn from my mistakes instead of making your own and use the right epoxy resin from the beginning, saving you time, money and your sanity.

Here’s what I know now…

BUT WAIT.

Before you continue, this is your red pill blue pill moment.

If you’re happy to continue the trial and error of making mistakes, then the blue pill is what you need.

But if you really want to understand resin (and never look at it the same way again), then you’ll want to take the red pill.

red pill blue pill

Here’s your Resin Obsession red pill moment:

There is no one-size-fits-all epoxy resin.

What works for one project can produce disastrous results in the next.

We guide you on buying an epoxy once we know more about how YOU want to use it.

How do we do that?

The simplest way is with our resin quiz. Answer two questions about how you’re using resin, and it tells you which resin is the best fit for you!

You can take the quiz here:

Which epoxy should you use?

Learn which epoxy resin is the best one for YOUR project.

Now that you know what resin you need for your resin project, you’ll want more information on that specific resin. Our handy resin buying guide shares those details including

*pot time
*cure time
*mixing amounts

resin buying guide

Click here to get the guide.

💡 Pro tip: If those terms sound like something from high school foreign language class, this resin dictionary explains what they mean.

If you’ve taken the quiz, you’ve got an answer for the resin you need to use for your project.

You can buy epoxy and get excited about making something beautiful. While you’re there might as well throw some mixing cups, stir sticks and a heat gun in the cart as well. Can’t have one without the other!

But, for you red pill resin nerds, I’m guessing you want to know why you need to use that resin.

And 90% of the battle is won when you answer this question:

pouring gray resin

Are you filling a space or coating a surface?

If you’re filling a space, your resin of choice would be a casting resin.  Coating a surface, will require a doming resin.

If you’re looking for a quick coating cure, you’ll want UV Resin.

Casting Resins

Casting resins mix in a thin consistency. This makes them ideal for filling molds and spaces in wood river tables.  They release air bubbles easily and cure hard.  But, they don’t coat surfaces well, meaning if you use them on a painting or tumbler, you’ll get holes and fish eyes.

river table

Doming Resins

Doming resins mix thicker. They self-level on surfaces like paintings, tumblers, jewelry blanks, tiles, countertops, and more.  Because they mix thick, they hang onto bubbles which is why you should pour them in thin layers no more than 1/8 inch deep. Once fully cured the epoxy is has a shiny even glossy finish.

pouring onto a mothers day diy gift photo board

UV Resins

Unlike traditional resins that require a long curing time, UV resin can set within minutes under a UV lamp. This resin is great for making jewelry, encasing objects, and casting small items because it dries shiny and clear. There is no mixing, making it ideal for resin projects that require small amounts of resin like pendants, earrings, and crafts.

Uv resin earrings
uv resin phone case

Remember each epoxy resin and hardener serves its own purpose, so choose accordingly!

mixing 2 part epoxy

Choosing a Kit

Some of the things you need to consider are:

Like this post? You may be interested in  Molds For Resin: Your Burning Questions ANSWERED

*minimum and maximum mixing amounts
*working time (also known as pot time)
*cure time

We’ve got all that information for you in our buying guide so you can compare one formula to another.

5 Tips for Epoxy Resin Success:

1.  Resin doesn’t last forever.  Once you open it, you should use it within 30 days.

Otherwise, it starts yellowing.  Unopened epoxy is stable for a year or longer.

2.  Your work area needs to be a consistent room temperature for 24 hours, so you don’t have curing issues.

Here’s some advice on what temperature you should be mixing your epoxy.

3.  Exact measuring and proper mixing ratios are essential to success.

Here’s the best way how to mix resin.

4.  Each resin kit has its own SPECIFIC directions.

Follow them carefully when mixing resin.

5.  Dispose of cured resins and uncured resins properly.

Here’s how to dispose of epoxy.

Ready to Dive Deep into the world of epoxy resin? Need some project inspiration to help you too? Looking to spice things up and add colors with either alcohol inks or dyes?

We got you!  Here are some of the most popular articles that will have your mind swirling with all kinds of projects you can make.

Sunflower coaster

Sunflower coaster


Keep those summer vibes all year long with a sunflower coaster.

Cover a photo collage

photo collage board project

What do you get someone who has everything?  You create a photo collage board of some of their favorite memories, then give it a glossy coating.  These make great Mother’s Day DIY gifts.

Keychain

resin keychains

Making an epoxy keychain might not keep you from losing your keys, but it can’t hurt.  They make great gifts too and there’s so many resin molds to choose from!

Once you’re ready to buy resin, we can help you with supplies for your first or next jewelry, art, and crafting project.

resin obsession store

Ready to try resin crafting but worried about making a mistake?

For less than the cost of a kit, you can get a copy of my ebook, Resin Fundamentals.  I’ve condensed my seventeen years of experience into the need-to-know information to help beginners make something beautiful from day one.  Buy the book now and a download link arrives in your inbox in minutes.

 

Unpublished Blog Posts of Resin Obsession, LLC © 2023 Resin Obsession, LLC

256 thoughts on “The Ultimate Epoxy Resin Buying Guide (Updated for 2024)”

  1. I am so addicted to creating with resin! Thanks so much for the download. Good to have whether you’re a pro or just starting out. 🙂

    Reply

      1. Hi, I’m looking to cast a dried rose and I’m unsure which resin to use; would you recommend your Deep pour casting resin, polyester casting resin, or another type?
        I have a roughly 3inch silicone sphere mould and would like the finished product to be clear.

        Reply

          1. Hi. Can I use polyester casting resin to embed a slab of wood to make a table? I am relatively new to resin, but would love some more info please? I cannot buy epoxy resin so I asked around and was told my next best bet would be casting resin. Any help would be highly appreciated. Thank you very much.

          2. Hi Garth, polyester resin shrinks too much when curing. It will pull away from your wood.

    2. What resin should I use to waterproof the inside of a bird bath? It needs to be ultra clear to show the detail of the bowl and it needs UV protection being outdoors. Plus, because of the birds drinking the water it must have the FDA designation. Many thanks for your help.

      Reply

    1. Hi, I am looking for a clear resin that I can coat the coasters with no colour added in resin and make some jewelry. What type of resin in your shop can I buy. Let me know. Thanks

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          3. Hi please be kind enough to tell me which resin
            Is to be used for 1) coasters (hot and cold drinks), and also for a trivet. I see articles on making coasters but clearly they must be able to withstand the heat – – and the trivet, even hotter
            Thank you !!

        2. I would love to know this, too!! Can you add to your pdf of choices (which is great, by the way!!) the max temperature each one can withstand???

          Thank you!

          Reply

      2. Here is an odd one! I have a kaleidoscope that has the oil inside which has gone dark. The maker no longer does this work. I want to drill a hole, clean the interior and then fill the hole of this plastic like tube. Do you think resin could work? I would turn the tube so the air bubble is near the opening to not have oil touch the resin for curing. THANKS!!!

        Reply

        1. If you could clean the interior so that the resin has fresh metal to stick to, then yes, it should work.

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      3. Resin comes in two parts. Is it called resin after it’s mixed or is it resin after the hardener is added? Why do I see people pouring color into what looks like “just” the resin.

        Reply

        1. Hi Gail, it does get kinda confusing, doesn’t it? In a two-part resin kit, the Part A bottle is called resin the Part B bottle is called hardener. Many people including myself, call using both bottles, ‘using resin’.

          Reply

    2. Hi K .Like the other lady. I’ve just started using polished gems in geodes & acrylic paintings.Is there a persificant Resin I should be using .Have just ordered resin from you guys for acrylic paintings . Have to say this is the best forum ever.Thank you

      Reply

  4. I have a piece of driftwood with a deep indentation. I want to use resin and suspend pieces of beach glass in it. I want the resin the be clear so that the glass colors show well. the indentation would hold approximately six to eight ounces. Would this work and what resin would you recommend? I read somewhere that resin shrinks. I would want to resin the stay in as this would be hung on a wall. Wow! That was a lot of info. I won’t even mention the LED lights I was considering putting in the resin…….

    Reply

    1. I keep trying to click on the link but it won’t direct me to it. I have a similar project (wood filling) and have never worked with resin, but would absolutely love to get into it. Please help

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      1. Link is not working. I have done some resin work, but it dried foggy, not crystal clear, so curious about clarity

        Reply

        1. Which link are you having trouble with? We show they are both working. Do you have Adobe PDF reader installed on your computer?

          Reply

    1. You will need to use a polyester or polyurethane resin. Both of those kinds can withstand the heat/friction of being worked on a lathe.

      Reply

      1. Hi again. I have experimented on wood, trying to make a coffee table, and had completely embedded and submerged six round shaped wooden pieces in polyester casting resin. It did not shrink too much or pull away from the wood. In fact, it did come out pretty well, for my first attempt. I am just worried about the larger size and volume of the next project I want to attempt. Hence the enquiry about casting the slab for a table. Thank you for any more info.

        Reply

      2. I am wanting to place a single preserved Rose head in an acrylic box. Which resin product will assist with this and will it set and hold the Rose in place on acrylic? Thank you!

        Reply

        1. Hi Debbie, for a project like this, you will want to use a casting resin. For pours of 3 ounces or less, the Resin Obsession super clear resin is what you want: https://shop.resinobsession.com/collections/resin/resin-obsession-super-clear-resin
          For pours of 3 ounces or more, the Resin obsession deep pour casting resin works great: https://shop.resinobsession.com/collections/resin/resin-obsession-deep-pour-resin. You will need to find a way, though, to hold the resin in place while you cast your resin. You can try suspending it in the box while the resin cures.

          Reply

  7. I want to decorate the back of a wood cutting board with dried flowers. Food and cutting would only be done on the opposite side of the board. Is there a resin I could coat with that is food safe and could withstand many washes with hot/warm water?

    Reply

  8. I would recommend a polyurethane resin. It won’t shrink after curing and will polish well with implements.

    Reply

    1. but it gets damaged in the sunlight..? actually i want to make a table of a wood plank , i plan to fill the holes with epoxy mixed with glow powder and glow powder need UV light to charge…can you please help me out?

      Reply

  9. Hi!

    I’m looking for a resin to make natural flower jewelry. I’ve tried some local products but they cause a lot of bubbles. And I bought Pebeo’s crystal clear resin. I loved it on casting process but when I used sandpaper and polishing after. It didn’t response because it’s softness I suppose. I tried the same process applied in metal jewelry products on local brands and it worked very well. I will be very appreciated if you can suggest me a resin both non-bubble and suitable for jewelry leveller.

    Reply

  10. I am looking for a resin to mix with saw dust to make flexible, paintable furniture appliques, what would you suggest? I read an article that you may use a 50/50 mix of plastic resin and saw dust.

    Reply

    1. In my opinion, resin won’t be a good fit for your project. It generally doesn’t cure flexible and it isn’t going to like the moisture in the sawdust.

      Reply

      1. Then what do you suggest, when I purchased furniture appliques, which are very expensive, they indicate it is a combination of resin and would filler, they are wonderful, paintable and flexible?

        Reply

  11. I want to cast, round clear knobs, 25 mm with a cloisonne pendant inside to be used as radio knobs in an automobile. UV would be an issue. Are molds available & resin type. Comments ??

    Reply

      1. I would like to pour the first lower half colored & second half in clear with a suspended pendant. If successful, I will need a larger amount to do 50 knobs for my friends.

        Reply

        1. If the bottom half of your resin is colored, and it is colored something other than white, you should not notice much yellowing as your resin gets older. Where in the world are you located?

          Reply

  13. hello there! i am looking for the best possible resin for my needs. I am using it to coat wood pendants with paint and gemstones. they hang to dry. Looking for Hardness and clarity for my pieces! thanks for your suggestions

    Reply

  14. I was wondering why my rose turned brown in the resin. I’m sad and upset because it was a rose from a funeral.

    Reply

    1. It would be fine. It mixes a little thick, however, which I think makes it unsuitable for molds. That’s why I don’t generally recommend it for jewelry.

      Reply

      1. Thanks Katherine, I poured some of my left over MasterCast into moulds, they’ve turned out ok, sharp edges but I’ve sanded and polished with 2000,2500&3000 wet and dry paper and polished with my dremel, they look pretty good, very tactile….. You are right the resin can warp and go out of shape if you get it too warm whilst working it.
        I was trying to find a way of offering tiny pieces of art and use up rather than waste left over resin, so thanks again for your time and advice ?

        Reply

  16. What you would recommend to seal a picture frame so I can create art work in a frame then pour resin over it? What about fast drying resin? Any options you can suggest?

    Reply

  17. I’m trying to preserve a giant lemon that I’ve brought back from holiday in Italy.

    do you think that injecting it with resin would work, as opposed to casting in resin.

    I’d like to keep the fruit looking exactly as it is, rather than casting in a shape.

    Reply

    1. Unfortunately, I don’t think that will work. Assuming the resin cures (which I’m not sure it will), it won’t do anything to keep the lemon from decaying.

      Reply

  18. Hi,
    Wonderful site! Very informative. I am new to resin crafting. I was wondering if you could recommend the best resin to use indoors. I tried Castin Craft but the smell was overwhelming. I would like to work inside the house. Thank you

    Reply

  19. Hi Katherine i was wondering if you could help me please. Im looking for a food safe resin which I’m going to add a food colourant to and use to fill cracks and knots in oak boards. I know that you recommend Alumilite Amazing Clear Cast Epoxy Resin but wanted to know if i could sand it once it’s set to get a smooth surface? Thank you

    Reply

  20. Hi Katherine, I would like to make a computer case for my macbook. I was thinking of adding maybe gems/shells to the outside of a snap on clear case. Would epoxy or resin be an appropriate product to ensure the decals would stay attached and wear resistant? Thanks!

    Reply

  21. I stumbled onto this site looking for a solution to application I have. I am an amateur wine maker and one of my pieces of equipment is a large press which has an aluminum base and a big threaded rod attached to it in the middle. The rod is prone to rust and I just don’t like my wine touching aluminum. I have been laying thick plastic on the base and wrapping the lower end of the rod in plastic food wrap while pressing. But it’s messy. I need a product that I can basically “paint” on the aluminum base and onto the threaded rod (where it would be in contact with the wine), to seal it.
    Do you have a food grade variation of your product that will adhere to aluminum and steel and not chip off? (I was initially looking for a fibreglass solution when I came across your resin product). Thanks

    Reply

  22. I want to try it in my toilet wall, vertial and horizontal, can I add acrylic tint to the resin and than pour it? What kind of resin should I use?

    Reply

    1. Is the wall already up or are you working with the wall horizontally to install in the bathroom once you are done?

      Reply

  23. I would love some feedback on a resin to use. I make soap dishes with pebbles set in them to a depth of approximately .25 inches. I have been using EasyCast clear epoxy resin, however, it is not necessarily ideal because I make a large number at one time (20). I’ve had problems with sticky spots, likely from poor mixing due to trying to make too many at once. What other products might be suitable alternatives? I need something clear, strong and able to withstand moisture with a decent amount of work time. Thank you so much. I’ve learned a lot here!

    Reply

      1. Ideally I would like to make 20 dishes at one time. With easy cast, I’ve found that I can only make five dishes per batch. If I try to make more than that, I run the risk of sticky spots and those dishes can’t be sold. It gets to be time-consuming to make four separate batches so that I can make a total of 20 dishes. If there was a product that was better suited for larger quantities that would save me some time.

        Reply

        1. Hi Peggy, I’m afraid if you are running into sticky spots mixing large batches with EasyCast, the same is going to happen with other resins.

          Reply

  26. Thanks. I think I’m not explaining very clearly. I really like these wire and resin flowers that I have seen various places around the internet, but I am just not sure which specific type of resin to use to get the same effect. The wire helps to create the shapes in advance of using the resin and is a pretty way to define the edges of each petal. I am just asking if you could look at the images I’ve posted and let me know if there is a particular type of resin that would let me achieve a similar effect by dipping the wire into wet resin. Thank you.

    Reply

  28. Last question, I promise. Looking at the options you have for doming resins, it looks like the best two choices for my purposes are Alumilite Amazing Clear Cast resin, Castin’ Craft Easy Cast resin, and possibly Envirotex Jewelry resin. In a perfect world, I would like it to dry clear, stick to the wire, make thin sheets, be paintable afterwards with an airbrush, and be able to continue dipping flowers after mixing for as long as possible (I have a lot of flowers to make so being able to prep a big batch rather than making separate batches for each couple flowers will save time and money). Do you think one is better than the others? Thanks again!

    Reply

    1. Hmm. I would probably go with the Easy Cast because even when fully cured, it can be flexible, especially if thin. It will give you more options to bend your petals if you want to be able to do that.

      Reply

  30. Hello! I’m wanting to cover my desk with resin. But it would need to withstand the possibility of me dropping things on it without getting scratched. Would epoxy resin be strong enough for this?

    Reply

  32. I make wall art using metallic and flat pigments in resins but many times my design flows right out and I lose it. What resin can I use that has very little movement besides my manipulations so I don’t lose my beautiful creations ?

    Reply

  33. ” Trabalho com Projeto e execução Arquitetônica, desenhos interiores e projeto de móveis. Minha área de interesse são as resinas epoxy e poliméricas; com especial atenção para execução de móveis, mesas e bancadas para cozinhas e salas em geral. Necessito informação, sobre aplicação e trabalhabilidade dos materiais, assim como fornecimento de materiais. Onde comprar.”

    Reply

  34. what resin would you recommend for a live edge wood cheese board. The live edges would face inward to form a “river” in the center of the board, and resin would be poured into it. I will need to sand or buff the edges or any imperfections to a perfectly clear finish.

    Reply

  35. What would be the best resin for jewelry making using silicone molds and incorporating dried flowers leaves and wood?

    Reply

  37. Can I use the Resin Obsession Super Clear to make my project/jewelry piece…let it cure… but then use the Ice Resin if I want to “dome” it (since the Resin Obsession is too thin)? Will the Ice Resin adhere to the Resin Obsession without having a “line” or “shadow” of the two different resins?

    Reply

  39. I’m trying to make a round ice resin pendant but can’t seem to find any molds for the exact size I want, what else can I use to make it? I was thinking a plastic cup but I don’t want to ruin the resin?

    Reply

  41. So much great information here! Is there a resin which can tolerate UV light and extreme cold temperatures of winter and also the heat from summers?

    Reply

  42. Hi there, I am interested in starting to work with resin to make jewelry (with dried flowers). I have asthma and must work indoors (no available outdoor space that is dust-free).

    Is that good enough? Is there a resin that you recommend for asthmatics, like me? Esp as a beginner, and working inside my art-room in my house.

    I have read so many posts and replies on this blog, and I can’t find an answer / suggestion. Which resin should I start with that will cause the least asthma flare ups and be best for see through pendants with flowers?

    Reply

    1. Hi Arielle, you need to wear a respirator that is NIOSH approved for fumes. Because you are an asthmatic, I recommend speaking with a medical professional as to whether or not you should be using resin and which product is most appropriate.

      Reply

  43. Hello I just saw your video about resins on Youtube but I just want to make sure that I am choosing the right choice. I have this sketching notebook and I have some dried flowers, plants, mushrooms and other outdoor artifacts that I want to place on the cover and back of my sketching notebook and I want the resin to be clear when it cures. What do you recommend? Also I am a beginner.

    Reply

    1. Thank you for your earlier suggestion. My follow up question would be, what should i use for the mold or in other words how can i contain the resin around my sketchbook when i am pouring the resin on top of it? I have done some research and it is very difficult to find cheap acrylic panels to put around it. Do you know any places i can purchase them or maybe even some diy ways to do it?

      Reply

  44. I am trying to make a 1 off epoxy resin cast. It is supposed to look like an NFL pylon for a trophy. I am thinking of using a 4″x4″x18″ wooden mold coated in tuch tape, sealed and then sprayed with mold release. Is Epoxy resin best for this purpose or should I be thinking of using a poly resin? Also would it best to cast standing up or laying down configuration.

    Reply

    1. While it’s a neat idea, I’m afraid wood isn’t going to work well for a mold. It’s not going to be flexible enough to release the casting. If you’re interested, I offer consultations in 15 and 30 minute blocks if you want detailed help to get this done. Send a message through our contact page and I can reply with prices and availability.

      Reply

  45. I’m wanting to make a river table, with live edge wood facing inwards, thus creating the river. Preferably food safe, for a coffee table. With color. What should I use for resin and color additive?

    Reply

  47. Hi, I’m making coasters and more, with art resin and following all instructions closely. It easily dents and marks with handling. Recoating scuffs with more epoxy just ends up wasting my material. I’m wondering if I can use a high gloss polyurethane topcoat to strengthen and protect the coasters surface? Thanks

    Reply

  48. Ok, unfortunately the 1.1 Art Resin supplies that I already bought stated the 1:1 art resin to be.. ‘strong, durable, solid and hard’. I’m now stuck with $250 dollars worth of resin that didn’t state ‘soft and dentable when fully cured’. I’m also not ok with paying additional return fees and restocking charges. I’m behind on deadlines and less than satisfied.

    Reply

  49. Furthermore and to be clear, the Art Resin coaster tutorial on the Art Resin website uses a 1:1 art resin to make coasters. The video did not recommended or even suggest using a better and different resin mixture. As a result.. of the product description and video tutorial.. I’m stuck with many soft coaster sets I cannot sell or give away because of the denting. As well as many hours of wasted effort and other wasted materials. Is there a Art Resin complaint process? Thanks

    Reply

  50. If the resin was not mixed long enough, or you
    scraped the sides of the container or was the piece
    cured in uneven or cold temperatures, then it will not reach maximum hardness. I have used this
    product with very good results.

    Reply

  51. I’m wanting to make clear paperweights, 3” to 4”, with dried flowers. What would be the best resin to use?

    Reply

  52. Hey how do I prevent yellowing on resin over time? I am using resin to make jewellery (with a colored backround), I use Izabaro UV resin

    Reply

    1. Unfortunately, all resins are going to yellow over time. Resins with UV inhibitors and stabilizers help extend the time before yellowing occurs. However, things such as mixing off ratio (even though it still can cure without tackiness), putting over an improperly cured lacquer, excessive heat, and or constant exposure to sunlight can speed up the yellowing process. How long the epoxy will last in its clear state is very difficult to predict.

      Reply

  53. Hello!
    Hope you are well. I have a question about resin coating on acrylic pour coasters: I recently made coasters out of tiles and coated them with 1 layer of art (epoxy) resin. It’s been almost 2 weeks now and they have cured hard quite well. Only issue is that after testing them with an empty mug, I’ve noticed a few scratches where the bottom mug surface touched the resin. Also, when I tried to check the surface hardness, I somehow created a tiny dent with my fingernail. Is this a common issue with art resin or may it be a cause of poor mixing and prep?

    Reply

  54. I am new to working with resin. I want push my art further and experiment with resin art, in particular resin on wood and ceramic with alcohol inks, glitter, pigments and so on. Which resin would of recommend? Thanks in advance.

    Reply

  55. I’m looking for a resin that dries clear and hard for use is silicone molds for jewellery and eventually dice. I need to be able to do at least some sanding as well. What would you suggest?

    Reply

  56. Unfortunately, you sent me right back to the sites that prompted me to raise the question in the first place. Never mind…I will call the companies myself.

    Reply

  58. Hi I’m very new with molds and castings. I have a cooked clay piece with several pieces attached on the outside of it. I would like to know what items I can use for making a mold of this item and for casting. I love all the answers you have given to other people and hope you have the time to answer my questions. Thank you for your time.

    Reply

  59. Hello,
    I’m trying to imitate bee honey with resin. I will pour it over an object and let it dry. So the resin will dry exposed to air. I need a resin that will dry hard and not tacky. I also need to add some color. What do you recommend?
    Thanks a lot.

    Reply

  60. I’m working with wood table tops, epoxy resin.I keep getting
    dimples and separation. I sand it down , and do it over again and it happens in a different place.what i,m I doing wrong

    Reply

    2. Hello
      I am interested in creating baby casts out of resin, what type of resin would I need to use? The website is brilliant and so helpful

      Reply

      1. Hi Aysha, I’d love to help you with a resin recommendation. I’m not sure I understand what you mean by baby casts. Can you tell me more?

        Reply

        1. Hello
          So sorry I should have been a bit more clearer, I do apologise. I mean baby casts, as in feet and hand moulds of babies after they are born to capture their precious little memories, I hope that helps.

          Reply

  61. Hi. Which resin do you recommend for mosaic work using stained glass, china and grout? Would I need to seal the grout first?

    Reply

  62. Hi, I resin over acrylic keychains. All is well as far as temperature of the room, etc. But weeks into a piece, it is dry and clear and hard. But not rock hard, I can actually stick my nail into it and it will leave a dent or if i scratched too hard, it leaves a mark.

    Reply

  63. Hello Katherine, would you recommend a resin that will stick to glass and not shrink. Without going into details I want to use the resin to make a 5mm seal across the top of small ‘sherry-type’ glasses (ie delicate and fragile drinking glasses). I would like the resin to seal by sticking to the glass’ edges is not retract once dry. Also would you recommend a smoky greyish translucent colourant that will mix with the resin. Thank you for your time.

    Reply

    1. Hi Mary, You have a lot going on here! I want to help you with your project, and I think this situation is best suited for a one-on-one consulting call where you and I talk back and forth about what’s going on. A 15-minute consultation call is $20. I do them by video so I can have a chance to see what you are working on.

      If you are interested, please send a message through the ‘contact us’ page and I can get this going for you. Sincerely, Katherine @ Resin Obsession

      Reply

  64. Hi, I wanted to cast a special rose in a letter mold. What type of resin is best for this purpose (this is my first time)? And any tips to help? Would really appreciate it.

    Reply

  66. Hi, where can I find clear collage sheets for imbedding into pendants and bracelets? I have seen jewelry made with them, incects, fish and the like, but cannot find them anywhere. Thanks!

    Reply

    1. Hi Jim, it sounds like you are looking for transparency sheets. You can get them at office supply stores.

      Reply

      1. Yes but with pre-printed images on them. I saw some with koi fish on eBay and was looking for more variety.

        Reply

  68. I have a mosaic table where the tiles are different heights and I want to pour enough clear resin above to give a new flat surface. Which type of resin do you recommend?

    Reply

  69. Hi, i am making a beer bottle top bar and want to cover in resin. It will be approx 8mm thick but each bottle top is 5 mm thick so will need to fill in between the bottle tops and then a 3mm thick top layer. I am hoping to do this in one self levelling pour and don’t really want to sand and finish etc. Can you advise what resin is best to use??

    Reply

  70. I want to make some “tiles” for a backsplash for my bathroom sink. Would like to use seashells and sand, maybe some small pebbles. What kind of resin would be good for that? I’m brand new to resin; are there any recommendations for how to shorten my learning curve to prepare for a project like this?

    Reply

  72. Hi Saphira, those guides are no longer available. The most recent guide is available at the ‘Click here…’ link at the beginning of the article.

    Reply

  73. Hi! I’m new to resin crafting & am struggling to make a resin comb with pressed flowers. I’ve used Amazing Clear Cast Coating/Casting and EasyCast resin and both are coming out bendy and flexible. Which resin do you recommend to get a rock hard finish for a thin comb mold? My temperature is above 70F and I mix correct amounts. Please help!

    Reply

  74. Hello 👋 I’m relatively new to resin. I’ve been wanting to make resin jewelry or cosplay items like crystals, gems, and various objects based off of pop culture. Specially id be using silicone molds to make these or making my own molds for the more specific pieces (which I’ve made molds before for small pieces but these were for clays and candies so not sure how much of that mold making knowledge applies here 😅).
    After some researching I’ve come to the conclusion that an epoxy resin may be a good choice? That and I keep seeing Art Resin showing up but I’ve heard that some epoxies turn yellow over time and that Art Resin has a lot of bubbles despite being heated with a torch and or a heat gun. And the pot time for one epoxy resin I found with very good reviews is very short and I think finding a resin with a longer pot time would be a good choice for a beginner.
    Do you have any recommendations? I keep asking around and searching and reaching and watching videos and reviews but everyone seems to have their own preferences so finding one resin that many people can agree on as a good beginner choice has been difficult.
    Ps- I’d also be adding color to my pieces, and I’m looking into some fine mica powders or alcohol inks, but I’ve heard the i is tend to float unless I get an ink sinker or completely blend the ink in and some mica powders seem to dull? I may be wrong but that’s just what I’ve seen from various videos and articles.

    Reply

    1. Hi Anabelle, Since it sounds like you are working in molds, you need to use a casting resin. Art Resin is not a casting resin, which is why it hangs onto bubbles.

      For pours where you are mixing 3 ounces or less (total), the Resin Obsession super clear resin is what you want to use: https://shop.resinobsession.com/collections/resin/resin-obsession-super-clear-resin

      For pours of 3 ounces or more, the Resin obsession deep pour casting resin will work: https://shop.resinobsession.com/collections/resin/resin-obsession-deep-pour-resin

      We also have Resin Obsession colors to match the resins here: https://shop.resinobsession.com/collections/colorants/resin-obsession

      Reply

      1. Thank you so much for the quick reply! I’ll give those resins a look and try them out 🙏 thanks so much for the help, I literally was about to buy 32 oz of the Art Resin, thanks for the save 😅

        Reply

  75. I am trying to download the resin buying guide but the page is giving me a 404 error. I have already learned so much so far though!

    Reply

    1. Hi Nathan, have you tried clicking on the guide image? As we update information, we remove links to old guides, which may be why you are getting a 404 error. Using the ‘click here’ link will get you the most recent, up-to-date guide.

      Reply

      1. ahhh thanks it worked when i clicked on the “click here” next to the title to “to get our resin guide” I was clicking on the green clickable link in the 2nd paragraph below that says “click here to get the guide” lol that goes to a dead page

        Reply

  76. Hi, I’m looking to make some resin coasters, a flat tray (roughly the size of an a4 piece of paper), a wine bottle holder etc. using silicone moulds. I’m completely new to resin art (blame late night Facebook scrolling!) so would really appreciate any tips 🙂

    The main questions I have is 1. what type of resin do I need to buy? 2. How much do I need to buy/how much is needed for the crafts I have in mind?

    If you could answer my questions and give me any tips and tricks that would be amazing.

    Reply

    1. Hi Ellie, welcome to the world of resin! For making coasters in mold, you want to use a casting resin. For pours of 3 ounces or less, the Resin Obsession super clear resin is what you want to use: https://shop.resinobsession.com/collections/resin/resin-obsession-super-clear-resin. For pours of 3 ounces or more, the Resin obsession deep pour casting resin will work: https://shop.resinobsession.com/collections/resin/resin-obsession-deep-pour-resin. The amount you need to buy is based upon the size of the mold you are using and how many you are making at once. Our resin calculator does the math for you. 🙂 You can use it for free here: https://resinobsession.com/resin-calculator/

      We have several articles on making resin coasters that will help you: https://resinobsession.com/tag/coaster/

      Reply

  77. Hi. I am making a table out of an old door. I have stripped and sanded almost all of the paint. I found a water soluble marine satin coating for the edges. There are 4 panels which I want to fill with epoxy with objects imbedded. I have 2 questions 1- Can I cover the entire door in the marine poly under the epoxy? 2- which of your epoxies do you recommend for an outdoor application?

    Reply

    1. Hi Heidi, I’m afraid I don’t have any experience using a marine satin with resin. I don’t know how compatible it is with resin.

      Reply

  78. I’m fairly new to using resin, i was wondering what kind of resin would be best for keeping glitter suspended and not sinking to the bottom?

    Reply

  79. Hello,
    I am new to resin and am wondering if there is a food safe resin out that can be mixed with mica powder or alcohol ink. I would love to be able to make bowls and plates that could be actually used for food instead of decoration only. Thanks!

    Reply

  80. Hi I am about to build a model railway in the garden, and will be casting the station platform, walls ect.from moulds. My question is what would you recommend to suffer the outdoor elements?

    Regards
    Kevin

    Reply

    1. Hi Kevin, I’m not sure what you mean by ‘suffer’ the outdoor elements. Can you tell me more?

      Reply

  81. Hello, I need to cast some western type wagon wheels, I realize I can add a colorant to epoxy to get my wheel the color I want. I was wondering if there is an epoxy that is not glossy when cured? In the past when trying to knock the gloss out of lacquered surfaces using steel wool worked well. Would this work on epoxy as well? I don’t want the finished wheel to have white streaks on them so it would have to be done carefully Thus the question of an epoxy that was gonna cure non glossy. If this is not possible can epoxy be painted? If it can be, can you recommend an epoxy suitable for this?

    Reply

    1. Hi Roger, you can use a fine grit sandpaper to rough up your wheels, or, you paint the wheels afterwards. For this project, you have two choices for resin.

      For pours of 3 ounces or less, the Resin Obsession super clear resin is what you want: https://shop.resinobsession.com/collections/resin/resin-obsession-super-clear-resin

      For pours of 3 ounces or more, the Resin obsession deep pour casting resin works great: https://shop.resinobsession.com/collections/resin/resin-obsession-deep-pour-resin

      Reply

  82. Thanks for the quick reply, I was waiting for my mold to get here before asking more questions for hints. The mold I got is silicone I believe (soft pink), after seeing the mold it got me to thinking. The resin you sell is close to the resin used for fiberglass, I believe since this is the case you should be able to use it as they do for making boats and fiberglass children’s rides. They have a mold that they spray with paint, not sure on the type definitely not latex, then they spray the resin and for their use spray a matting for apply cloth in the desired layers. When they take the molds off, the painted surfaces are in the resin permanently with no need to paint. I think I want to try painting, for my application of a western wagon wheel, the rim black with an oil based paint and then pour the rest of the wheel with a resin dyed brown. I will need to buy the resin and the dye from you, since I will not be going into mass production I will not a huge amount. I build lamps and these wheels are going to be used in a covered wagon type lamp. The wheel is 2 3/4″ in diameter and probably about 3/8″ deep, so you can see the mix for each will be small. I wish I could have afforded to buy 4 molds but I live on a very limited budget from SS. I can’t imagine selling more than 6 of these, if they were to take off I would then buy the other molds and of course more resin. I want the brown to be a medium brown not real dark. So can you please steer me in the right direction for the right resin and dye? And thanks in advance for your help and guidance in this matter. Sincerely, Roger

    Reply

    1. Hi Roger, For pours of 3 ounces or less, the Resin Obsession super clear resin is what you want: https://shop.resinobsession.com/collections/resin/resin-obsession-super-clear-resin
      For pours of 3 ounces or more, the Resin obsession deep pour casting resin works great: https://shop.resinobsession.com/collections/resin/resin-obsession-deep-pour-resin. This brown dye will work to color the resin: https://shop.resinobsession.com/products/alumilite-liquid-transparent-dye

      Reply

  83. HELP! I used resin for mugs and cups. My daughter uses a deep pour resin for paperweights, and other molds. Is there a resin out there that we can BOTH use for our specific hobbies? Buying both types gets expensive.

    Reply

    1. Hi Patricia, I’m afraid there isn’t. Resins meant for coatings do not give the best results in molds and vice versa.

      Reply

  85. Hi,
    I’m looking at your resin buying guide and I want to make sure that all of the brands are good for jewelry?

    Reply

  86. Hi! I am wondering about using resin on top of ceramic artwork without glaze. Which would be best? I would like a bright pink and not too thick. Also, would these be permanent or could they flake off? Thanks!

    Reply

  87. Hi,

    I want to make custom ashtrays that I’ve seen on Etsy is it safe to use resin to make an ashtray? and if so which resin do you recommend? Thank you for your help:)

    Reply

  88. Hi,
    I want to pour resin into a lucite tray over some gummy bears. What resin do I need, and do I need to seal the bears first. Perhaps with mod podge?

    Reply

      1. Hi Katherine! I’m so glad I came across this site, so much great info!! Thank you! I am attempting to cover gummy bears (and other gummy candy) in some kind of a protective sealant. (these will be glued into a shadow box frame and not eaten!) I tried spray clear coat but didn’t love the results so someone suggested I try resin. This comment was from 3 years ago and so my follow up questions are 1) have you tried gummy candy in resin since Jan 2021 & 2) the link to the sealer spray you mention goes to an epoxy polish and cleaner set. I have quite a few gummies to protect so I’m hoping to not have to brush or individually coat them all; thinking about toothpicks under them, stabbing into cardboard base/stand and then pouring resin over…? Any thoughts or input, please & thanks!!

        Reply

        1. Hi Emily! You can coat the gummy bears with several coats of an acrylic spray sealer prior to pouring the resin.

          Reply

  90. I read the resin guides but am still not sure what product might be right for my project. I want to make a hemisphere that is about 8″ in diameter. I want my hemisphere to be able to support about 200lbs. Any ideas on what product might work?
    I made one out of concrete, but I would rather something more rubbery. The concrete gets crumbly after a while. Any ideas

    Reply

    1. Hi Meegan, I’m not sure resin is a good choice for a project like this. I wouldn’t expect it to hold 200 pounds without some kind of support.

      Reply

  91. Hi there, what resin would I look to use to make drinking glasses? I’ve looked at all information but still not sure on which to use exactly.
    Branden.

    Reply

  92. Hi Catherine, Love your site – lots of great information. I’m pretty new to resin art. There are 2 projects that I’d like to try – one is a bowl (free form, drape over a vase bottom while resin is still pliable) and free standing night light ( 8x5x2 that sits on top of a wooden base with strip lights. Which type of resin do you recommend for each? Also, I just purchased your ebook – resin for beginners(?). Where do I go to download the book?

    Thanks,
    Sue

    Reply

    1. Hi Sue, welcome to the world of resin. You are going to have so much fun! Our artwork resin works great for the free-form bowl project. You can see how I used it (including a link to the resin) in this article: https://resinobsession.com/resin-tutorials/how-to-shape-resin/. For your other project, it sounds like you are using a mold, yes? If so, our deep pour resin works great. You can buy it in our store here: https://shop.resinobsession.com/collections/resin/resin-obsession-deep-pour-resin. Your book download email will arrive in your inbox a few minutes after purchase. Sometimes, these emails get filtered to junk mail, so check there as well. If you don’t see it, contact us and we can send you another link.

      Reply

  93. Hi Catherine, Thanks so much for your quick reply and advice. Your article on which resin to use is a godsend! As pricey as resin it is, that article has probably saved me a ton of $ (and frustration) and has raised my level of confidence in my resin choices. I had no idea there were so many types! And thank you for the link to the bowl tutorial. That’s exactly what I’ll be trying to create. And yes, I’ll be using a mold for the nightlight. After reading your article, I was pretty sure I was going to need the deep pour, so I ordered some. Glad you confirmed that in your response.

    Reply

    1. Oh goodness, Sue, that’s so wonderful to hear! I remember feeling confused about what resin to buy for so long. I’m glad you were able to take advantage of my mistakes. LOL.

      Reply

  95. I have a question im a first timer to resin and I want to do a necklace with a picture of my mom who is no longer with us ,how do I do that ?

    Reply

  96. Hello I made the wine caddy mold with the coasters. I let it cure for 72 hours and it seemed sturdy. I put a single wine glass in the holder and put it over a bottle of wine and after time it bent. what resin would be good to use for this sort of project?

    Reply

  97. how do I know how much resin to use for certain molds? for instance I have a 3 and 1/2 inch round mold for a rose. how much resin am I going to need.

    Reply

  98. I have a hollowed out plastic Maleficent cane that bends very easily and I was told I could put resin inside it to harden to give it more stability to walk with it and I was wondering if it’s casting resin I should get for that

    Reply

    1. Yes, casting resin would do great. If you need 3 ounces or less, the Resin Obsession super clear resin is what you want: https://shop.resinobsession.com/collections/resin/resin-obsession-super-clear-resin
      If you need 3 ounces or more, the Resin obsession deep pour casting resin is what you want: https://shop.resinobsession.com/collections/resin/resin-obsession-deep-pour-resin

      If you need help figuring out how much resin you need to fill your cane, this article explains how: https://resinobsession.com/resin-frequently-asked-questions/how-much-resin-do-i-need/

      Reply

  99. Hello, I was needing to know what resin would be best as I’m making a wolf doll and want resin for the head, hands and feet. I will be painting after?

    Reply

  100. I have acrylic poured on 12×12 inch tiles that I would like to resin for use as a trivet for pans coming out of the oven. What resin would you recommend? Thank you so much for your help!

    Reply

  101. Hi, I am thinking of making a tree for yard art with the construction being welded steel bit for the trunk/limbs and then resin leaves. (Not totally original as I saw something like this in the Philbrook Art Museum garden in Tulsa.) Wondering what the ideal resin combo would be for this year-round outdoor project as there will be UV big-time, potential of hail, wide range of temperature, etc. FYI – I live in Colorado Springs, CO.

    Reply

  102. I want to use resin/epoxy as a coating og a textile big sculpture to be able to stay outdoor. too which epoxy should I use

    Reply

  103. Good evening, I have a candy dish that I have done a paint pour on and would like to coat it with resin. Not sure how to explain but I’m going to try, lol! How would I go about it so that it still holds candy aka still concave?

    Reply

    1. Hi Kelly! I would recommend pouring the epoxy over top, letting it harden until it’s no longer sticky but it’s still “squishy” aka you can make dents in it. Then using another bowl, you have that is similar in size, place it on top of the resin with some weight in it to leave an indent and create that concave. We will be having a post about bending epoxy and creating bowls real soon so keep your eyes peeled!

      Reply

  104. Hello, Thanks for posting such awesome information! I am a long time amd diverse crafter, but I’m interested in starting to so some resin crafting. Specifically, I want to try and make some memorial rings. I’ve watched some videos and found empty rings (they have a channel for the resin), but I am not sure what kind of resin would be best for this application. I was thinking of trying multiple thin layers of the clear doming resin and then buffing down after finishing for a smooth finish. I’d love your thoughts!

    Reply

  105. I am JUST starting out and have to tell you that your website is the BEST I’ve found! Great graphics, clear instructions, great ideas, etc. etc.
    Keep up the great work.

    Reply

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