Using resin in molds to make crafts and jewelry is fun. Even more fun than a barrel of monkey bread. But how are you supposed to know what items should be on your resin supply list?
Especially without spending a lot of money.
Here’s your resin supply list, broken down into essential and optional things you need.
But. BEFORE you proceed down this list, I want to be sure you’re getting the best information.
✅ If you want to create with resin in molds, keep reading.
❌ But, if you want to use resin to paint on a surface, you’ll want this list instead: Epoxy pouring supply list
Essential resin casting supplies
This part of the resin supply list contains what you WILL need to make all the cool epoxy crafts you’re seeing everywhere.
1. Casting resin. Why do you need a casting resin? They cure durable and clear in molds. Casting resins release bubbles easily. That’s essential if you’re pouring resin in large amounts or once or thick layers in one pour.
💡 Pro tip: Any resin that mixes thick enough for a coating will make microbubbles when used in a mold.
2. Mixing cups. You’ve got to get accurate measurements of your resin parts. Otherwise, it might not harden. Resin mixing cups help you do that. They have lines to get precise measurements of your resin and hardener.
⭐️ BONUS: Here’s how you know which resin to use for your mold projects.
3. Stirring Utensils. Plastic stir paddles are a great way to get your resin thoroughly mixed. They’re strong and wipe clean, so you can use them over and over. Thorough mixing is essential to ensuring your resin cures without any sticky spots.
4. Safety equipment. Gloves and safety glasses are important for your well-being. Resins are chemicals and need to be handled with care.
⭐️ BONUS: Be sure you’re up on the best resin safety information.
5. A level surface for casting. Ensure your work area is flat and even when resting on the floor. You don’t want to pour resin into your molds only to find they don’t cure level from one side to the other.
6. Wax paper, freezer paper, or protective tarp. It’s impossible not to have a resin drip or spill somewhere when resin casting. (Just ask my favorite shorts.) By using something with a waxy surface to protect your work area, you can let spilled resin on the surface cure. Then, peel it off once it’s solid. You may even decide to throw it away since these materials are usually inexpensive.
7. Resin molds. To be honest, this is the most fun you’ll have with this resin supply list. Whether you want to use jewelry molds, coaster molds, or something else, you’ll have so much fun with this step.
💡 Pro tip: If you’re a resin beginner, start with an open mold without much detail. They’ll be the easiest for you to work with. You’ll be able to see bubbles quickly.
8. Mold release. This helps to release resin castings from your molds. Mold release also prolongs the life of your resin molds. Twisting and popping can warp your mold or produce micro-tears that reduce mold life. It’s also good to have if something goes wrong; it may be the only reason you can demold your resin charms.
⭐️ BONUS: Three reasons why I always use resin mold release.
Optional resin casting supplies
Those are the basic resin supplies you need to get started. If your budget allows it, here are some other supply items to add to your list.
9. Bright LED light. You’ll be able to see bubbles so much easier. (and get them out of your resin before it starts curing)
10. Resin colors. Colors designed for resin produce the most consistent results. They won’t impact curing or change colors when added to resin.
11. Heat tool. A heat gun is a terrific way to remove bubbles. It’s also safer than using something with a flame, like a propane or butane torch.
12. Sealant. You’ll need this to seal anything that changes color when it gets wet.
13. U.V. lamp. You’ll need a UV light to cure UV resin.
⭐️ BONUS: How to seal papers for resin.
Want a downloadable supply list for resin casting?
Sure! You can download it here: Resin supplies checklist
Unsure about your next steps with resin casting?
It’s why I wrote the ebook Resin Fundamentals. I wrote it with the beginner in mind and take you on a clear path to help you confidently create with epoxy resin. Buy the PDF book now, and a download link will come to your email in minutes.
Unpublished Blog Posts of Resin Obsession, LLC © 2023 Resin Obsession, LLC
This was very helpful. Thank you.
Carmen Alves
Your the best cz it was a headache to knw what’s needed thank you soo much
Thank you for the easy explain , wish you all the best
Thank you! Easy to read and understand!
I throughly appreciate this lesson and like to know if you sell many kits?
Hi Pamela, we have kits in our store here: https://shop.resinobsession.com/collections/kits
I’m thinking of making a “crater” in a piece of hardwood, placing a stone in the crater, and filling it with resin. I would want to leave the stone and the resin in place. Could I use resin and wood?
Yes, that sounds like a great project!
I put my resin bottles in warm water for a couple of min. before I pour and I really do not have that much bubbles and I wait about ten min. and all the bubbles pool at the top and I use a bbq lighter. thank you for telling the different about resin.
I’m beginner I love you information I’m going to make a project with resin thanks for your information
You are welcome. Good luck!
wow thank i was going to start a small business and this was so helpful thank you so much 😀
You’re welcome Jenna!
I love Resin Obsession! It is one of my favorites to learn websites. I will definitely get out of my fears and start working on a resin project.
Thanks Alicia. So kind of you!
Just thinking of doing some resin projects! Your site has lots of great info for us as beginners! Thank you!
You’re so welcome Nancy. I can’t wait to hear more about what you’re making!
Great Info thank you
You’re welcome, Sherry. I’m glad you found it helpful!
I am a beginner at using resin and loving it.
It seams easy haves simple directions.
1 question
At the end of pouring everything in, some ppl use a clear coat( is that what is left over of what you did not use? If so what is best to let it harden a bit or pour it in right away.
Thanks
Denise
Hi Denise, I’m not sure I understand your question. Can you tell me more?
This was great! I have to do a business presentation for school and this is very useful.
I’m new to resin casting and was wondering if there is a cleaner out there for cleaning up resin? I’ve gone through so many mixing cups because i throw them away (it’s starting to get pricey). Any information would be appreciated.
Hi Amanda, I love that you want to reuse your cups! This article explains how to clean resin from cups so you can use them again: https://www.resinobsession.com/resin-frequently-asked-questions/how-to-clean-epoxy-resin-tools-and-cups/
This might be posted somewhere else, but what is the best way to clean those reusable plastic cups?
Hi Liz, we’ve got an article showing how to do that: https://www.resinobsession.com/resin-frequently-asked-questions/how-to-clean-resin-cups/
I was curious what drill you use for drilling bead holes or findings holes?!the
Hi Kerry, I use a flex shaft, but a Dremel can work too. You can see more here: https://www.resinobsession.com/resin-resin-resin/drill-resin/
I want to make decorative pieces to be attached to the outside of my custom built dresser. I will be paint big them to match the paint color I will be using on everything on the dress, except for the drawer fronts. They will be stained in the stain color “fruitwood,” this is where I want to attach the decorative pieces I want to make with the molds I have already purchased. They are “Winter Blooms, Forest Flora, and Aviary” from re-design. Which resin and other products do I need for this project? I will be purchasing everything I need from Resin Obsession. This dresser dimensions are 47”H x 10’6”W x 24”D.
My home is 100 years old and has beautiful fruitwood wood work, trim through out the entire house. I want this dresser to look as though it has been here just as long.
Thank you for all you help and supplying me with the correct list I need to complete this project.
Grateful always,
Darla
What type of resin would I need if I want to paint on the resin in layers to make a 3D looking fish or flower as example?
Hi Shalee, it depends on how you’re using the resin. This article explains more: https://www.resinobsession.com/resin-frequently-asked-questions/types-of-epoxy/