Epoxy Resin is a fun product used for arts and crafts and has been experiencing a lot of growth in popularity lately, but what exactly is it? It’s a fair question, and its only natural to wonder this regardless of whether you’re a greenhorn using it for the first time or you already carry a solid line of experience under your belt and are simply curious if there are better resins out there that you don’t know about yet.
Our Top Picks
- Editor’s Choice: CRAFT RESIN
- Best Epoxy Resin for Jewelry: UNOKKI
- Casting and Coating Starter Kit: PUDUO
- Best Artist’s Resin for Coating: NAKED FUSION
- Budget Pick: Sig Wong
So what’s the best epoxy resin for crafts?
Below, we’ve created a list of the best Epoxy resin we could find by taking into account the versatility of the material and expanded on it by highlighting what type of epoxy resin is most useful for what purpose (i.e., Jewelry, coating, the best bang for your buck, etc.). Moreover, there is also a quick synopsis of what you can expect from each product.
1. CRAFT RESIN – Editor’s Choice
HIGHLIGHTS:
- All-around applicability
- Food Safe
- 34, 68oz, and pro kit options (2.23 Gallons)
- Straightforward and easy to use
- Complete beginner’s kit.
Our top pick is there because Craft Resin delivers quality and quantity in spades with its amorphous and even-handed epoxy. Lauded for its gorgeous clear finish, customer reviews favor the overall performance of this product, citing its strength and adaptability as it can be used in a wide variety of projects. The resin comes with a handy, all-in-one kit (optional) and is easy for pros and beginners. The only real issue you’ll be having with this product is why they don’t bother selling it in a giant bottle!
Pros:
- Works amazingly well
- Reviews express surprise at the ease with which this resin can be used
- Fitted to virtually any project
- Crystal clear finish
- No pungent odor
- Responds effectively to heat gun treatments
Cons:
- Long drying times
- Price
- Problems when working with Tabletops
2. UNOKKI – Best Epoxy Resin for Jewelry
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Thoroughly tested
- Ease of use
- Self-leveling
- High sheen
- Multiple applicability
- Clear kit, including sticks and gloves for easy mixing
- No odor
Heavy contender second to Craft Resin, Unokki holds its own, only with its scales tipped more towards jewelry craft. It’s up your alley to make that next rainbow-colored ring or bezel. Excellent for creating gifts and safe for children, this type of epoxy is ideal for coasters and models, making for a smooth viscous pour with every mixing. Sits well with a relatively low wait time on drying, Unokki’s revered product is an achievement all at its own.
Pros:
- Little to no bubbles
- Shorter drying times, curing solid and clean
- Customers noted the ease of use to those new to the use of epoxy
- Even pour
- Balanced fluidity
- Viscosity allows for precise pouring
Cons:
- Sizing the gloves in the kit sometimes makes the process difficult.
- Long curing times
3. PUDUO – Casting and Coating Starter Kit
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Ease of use for beginners
- Value for money
- Sheen
- Packaging
- Money-back guarantee
PUDUO Epoxy Resin has surprised many with its curing time’s half-life, with some claiming it to have cured in a mere 8 hours. That’s nothing to joke about in this world of craft and is nearly something not regularly heard of! Its even-tempered viscosity creates a nice flow with every pour you make. Layering with this epoxy is efficiently designed, making it the resin for casting. High adhesion to various materials instantly sets this product apart from the rest.
Pros:
- Fast-drying times
- Easy to use
- Little to no odor
- Little to no bubbles
- Minor problems overall
Cons:
- Some drying problems
- Cracking and hairline fractures appear in specific crafts
- Temperatures had a distinguished effect on bubble appearance, frustrating buyers
4. NAKED FUSION – Best Artist’s Resin for Coating
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Thickness
- Sheerness
- Great for beginners
- Great Value for the price
- Easy to use and remove
If you’re an artist looking for the right kind of epoxy to help you nail that following art picture, needing a two-part system that’s forgiving and easy to sand and polish, say no more as Naked Fusion’s Epoxy Resin is the medium for your musings and the answer to your next varnish or casting. Create beautiful images with this product that’s easy to use and a friend to beginners. Pour it onto metal, wood, or plexiglass and watch it illustrate rich and colorful images that will keep the fire of inspiration burning.
Pros:
- Very forgiving and easy to use
- Loved for creating dazzling effects and vibrant colors
- Castings are typically bubble-free
- Flexible and thick pouring makes for solid and durable castings
- No noticeable smell or odor
Cons:
- Customers experienced cloudiness
- Warming practices may not work
- The brochure included in the packaging is alleged to be misleading
- Other complaints found a 50-50 mix of the resin and hardener did not harden on painting
5. Sig Wong – Budget Pick
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Easy to use
- Sheerness
A damn good product for those moments you have to pinch pennies, Sig Wong’s Epoxy Resin understands the budgeting constraints. It has developed a distinguished recipe that is gentle on your wallet. You can use this bad boy with silicone molds without worrying about pesky bubbles hardening after fully curing and still get a finished clean look. A great tool that’s easy to use for both beginners and veterans, this product does not sacrifice quality for quantity, making it a buy that’s well worth the purchase.
Pros:
- Good for beginners
- Little to no odor
- Fast shipping times
- Mixes well with other acrylics
- Forgiving
- It fits most projects, matching them in size
Cons:
- The product is not as advertised
- Mislabeled shipments
- Long drying times
Buying Guide
Epoxy, polyurethane, and polyester resins have unique applications but ultimately share core standard components. They’re sworn by, have incredible utility, and are tough once fully hardened.
Adhering to a vast array of materials, knowing what you’re looking for, and asking yourself what you want from your project are critical.
Types of epoxy resin for craft
When it comes to crafting with epoxy resin, several types are available. The two most common types are polyester and epoxy resin. Polyester resin is typically cheaper and easier to find but is not as durable as epoxy resin. Epoxy resin is a bit more expensive but has better properties that make it ideal for crafting.
Epoxy resin comes in two parts – a resin and a hardener. A chemical reaction causes the mixture to harden when these two parts are mixed. This process is called curing, which can take several hours or even days to complete.
Another type of epoxy resin is UV-cured resin. This resin type is cured using ultraviolet light instead of a chemical reaction. It can be more expensive than traditional epoxy resin, but it heals much faster and is ideal for smaller projects.
When choosing which type of epoxy resin to use for your craft, it’s essential to consider the project you’re working on and the properties you need. If you need something waterproof and heat-resistant, epoxy resin is your best bet. However, if you’re working on a smaller project and need something that cures quickly, UV-cured resin may be the better choice.
Ultimately, the type of epoxy resin you choose will depend on the specifics of your project. Understanding the different types available and their properties lets you decide which epoxy resin to use for your craft.
How to mix epoxy resin
Mixing epoxy resin for crafting is an important step that requires attention to detail. Here’s how to mix epoxy resin properly to achieve the best results:
- Measure: First, measure out the correct amount of resin and hardener. The instructions with your epoxy resin will tell you the correct ratio of resin to hardener. Measuring the proper amounts of each is essential to avoid issues with the final product.
- Mix: Next, pour the resin and hardener into a mixing container. Stir the mixture together using a stir stick or a small paintbrush. Make sure you scrape the sides and bottom of the container to mix the mixture thoroughly.
- Avoid Bubbles: Avoid introducing air bubbles into the mixture, which can affect the final product. Slowly stir the mixture to avoid creating bubbles, and tap the mixing container on a flat surface to release any bubbles that do form.
- Check: After you have mixed the epoxy resin for the recommended amount of time, check the mixture for any unmixed areas. If you see any refined resin or hardener, continue stirring until thoroughly mixed.
- Pour: Finally, pour the mixed epoxy resin onto your project. Be sure to run it evenly to avoid any lumps or bumps.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you mix your epoxy resin properly and achieve the best possible results for your craft project.
Troubleshooting Epoxy Resin Projects
Even with careful planning and execution, issues with epoxy resin projects can still arise. Here are some common problems and troubleshooting tips to help you fix them:
- Sticky or Tacky Resin: If the resin is sticky or tacky to the touch, it may not have adequately cured. This could be due to not mixing the resin and hardener thoroughly enough or not using the correct ratio of resin and hardener. To fix this, try mixing a fresh batch of epoxy resin and applying it to the sticky area.
- Air Bubbles: If your epoxy resin project has air bubbles, it can affect the project’s final look. To avoid this, try using a toothpick or heat gun to remove the air bubbles after pouring the mixture. If the bubbles have already hardened, gently sand the surface to remove them.
- Cracks or Crazing: If the epoxy resin has cracks or crazing, it could be due to incorrect curing or insufficient hardeners. To fix this, try mixing a fresh batch of epoxy resin with the correct ratio of resin and hardener and reapplying it to the area.
- Cloudy or Hazy Finish: If the finish of your epoxy resin project is cloudy or hazy, it could be due to moisture in the air or not mixing the resin and hardener thoroughly enough. To fix this, gently sand the surface to remove the cloudiness or apply a clear coat of wax to the area.
You can salvage your project and achieve the desired results by troubleshooting these common issues with epoxy resin projects. You can create stunning epoxy resin crafts with practice and attention to detail without problems.
FAQ
Some frequently asked questions concerning epoxy are as follows:
What is epoxy resin, and what is it used for in crafting?
Epoxy resin is a type of hardening liquid that is commonly used in crafting. It is a two-part mixture that, when combined, creates a durable and long-lasting finish. It can be used on various surfaces, including wood, metal, and glass, and is often used to create decorative and functional objects such as jewelry, coasters, and tabletops.
What surfaces can epoxy resin be applied to, and how should they be prepared?
Epoxy resin can be applied to various surfaces, including wood, metal, glass, and ceramics. However, it’s essential to ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free from dust, debris, or any other substances that could prevent the resin from adhering correctly. You can clean the surface with soap and water or rub alcohol and lightly sand it to create a rough surface to which the wax can stick. If the surface is particularly porous, you may also need to apply a coat of sealant or primer before applying the wax.
How long does it take for the epoxy resin to cure, and what factors affect the curing time?
The curing time for epoxy resin can vary depending on several factors, such as the brand of polish used, the thickness of the layer applied, and the temperature and humidity of the environment. Typically, epoxy resin can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to cure completely. A thin resin layer can heal faster than a thick layer, and a warm and dry environment can speed up the process. However, if it’s too hot or cold, the curing time may be slower or cause the resin to become brittle or not cure properly. It’s essential to follow the instructions provided with the resin to ensure the best results.
How can you color or add other materials to epoxy resin to create unique effects?
You can add color or other materials to epoxy resin to create unique effects by using pigments, dyes, or powders. You can add glitter, dried flowers, or other small decorative elements to the mixture to create a unique look. It’s essential to choose materials compatible with epoxy resin and mix them thoroughly to ensure even distribution. You can also create different effects by pouring multiple resin layers, adding different colors or materials to each layer, and using tools to create different patterns and textures. You can make all sorts of unique and beautiful pieces with some creativity.
How do you prevent bubbles from forming in epoxy resin and remove them if they do appear?
Disruption of bubbles can be prevented in the epoxy resin by pouring the mixture slowly, stirring it gently, and using a heat gun or a propane torch to remove any bubbles that do form. It’s also essential to work in a dust-free environment to avoid trapping any debris or particles in the mixture, which can cause bubbles. If bubbles do appear, you can use a toothpick or a small needle for popping them while the resin is still wet. You can use a heat gun or a propane torch to remove them carefully for more giant bubbles. It’s essential to be careful when using a heat source and not overheat the resin, which can cause it to discolor or become brittle.
Can you use epoxy resin to make molds or casts of objects, and what are some tips for doing so successfully?
Yes, you can use epoxy resin to make molds or casts of objects. To do so successfully, you must first create a mold box, typically made from silicone, plastic, or cardboard. Once you have your mold box, you can place the object you want to cast inside and fill the container with liquid silicone or other mold-making material. After the mold has been set and cured, mix and pour the epoxy resin into the mold to create your cast. Following the instructions with the mold-making material and the epoxy resin is essential to ensure the best results. You may also want to experiment with different pigments, textures, or additives to create unique and exciting casts.
Wrapping it up
The picks for this list are there for a reason. Each of the top three choices presented in this article was nominated because they’ve delivered on nearly every individual purchase. Regardless of whether or not that outcome was fantastic or a total derelict, the number of good-to-bad reviews is a healthy ratio.
Our best craft epoxy resin verdict? CRAFT RESIN. Final answer.
These products provided results that spoke for themselves, earning mostly positive reviews. Customers weren’t overly dissatisfied looking for reimbursement but instead painted a unanimous image positive enough in tone to steer the overarching verdict as worth their price tag. Sure, some may be steep for the wallet or take a while to dry, but why not if you can swing it?
Resins is a beautiful material that has come quite a distance in the story of craft and general use and continues to prove its indispensability and dependable nature. It doesn’t matter if you’re an artist or a craftsman; don’t take our word for it; get out there and see for yourself!
