Resin has gained wide popularity recently due to its variety of uses, from jewelry making to art to construction. There is a great demand for it and many people want getting started with resin, but it is not easy in the beginning. You need to know the resin basics and get to know it well in order to gain information about its types, how it is used, its applications, and safety guidelines that must be taken into account. Here is a guide to resin for beginners and everything you need to know. Do not worry, as soon as you finish reading, you will know all the important information about resin for beginners.
What is resin
It is a sticky chemical substance with unique adhesive and curing properties. It is either produced naturally through secretions formed by plants to protect against wounds and pathogens, or synthetically manufactured through chemical processes.
There are types whose properties differ from each other accordingly, they are used for different purposes.
Types of Resin
The first step in starting with resin is to know its types and understand the differences between them, and what each type is used for. I will only detail what is used in the crafts and jewelry making since Resinista specializes in Resin crafts
- Epoxy Resin:
It is the most popular type, it is characterized by high transparency and gives an excellent glossy appearance, therefor it is used to make jewelry and art, It is also used in decorations and construction works due to its extreme hardness and durability. It must be mentioned that it is safer compared to other types. It is safe to perform inside the home, taking into account following safety guidelines and ventilating the room well. Its toxicity becomes low after fully curing, so it is kind of safe to make utensils for sweets and snacks.
It is a transparent viscous liquid, it comes with its own hardener container, which represents the acid part that reacts with it chemically to result in hardening. Each type has a mixing ratio that must be adhered to in order to obtain the desired result. The mixing ratio has to be written on the containers.
Wanna know more: epoxy resin guide for beginners
- Polyester Resin:
Usually, it costs less than the previous one, commonly used in fiberglass production and casting applications, polyester resin is favored for its cost effectiveness and ease of use. It has less transparency than epoxy and often gives a yellowish appearance when not colored. it also comes with hardener
I do not recommend it in these conditions:
- if you want to make jewelries, coasters, glossy work, as you'll not get the best results also polyester is not safe for direct contact with food (in case of coasters)
- if you cast in silicone molds, or make sure to get one specifically designed for polyester.
- if you don't have open air area to perform your work, it's less safer in terms of toxicity, its fumes can cause serious health problems, it's not recommended to use it inside a house.
- for constructions: it's less strong than epoxy, it's not the ideal choice for any work that requires solidity.
-UV resin:
Unlike epoxy, it does not require hardener or any chemicals to harden. It only needs to be exposed to sunlight or a UV lamp. Ideal for making thin pieces and not preferable for thick work. to create thick piece it is necessary first to apply a thin layer and expose it to UV until it hardens, then repeat the same step with each layer until it is finished.
There are other types whose characteristics and uses differ from crafts, jewelry making, and art.
Introduction for resin applications
1. Art and crafts
The most popular use ever. Even the word “resin” is associated with art and crafts more than any other use, and this is a clear reason why epoxy is more popular than the rest.
Resin art has attracted attention recently as it is diverse from making accessories, antiques, trays, keychains and gives room for creativity. Think of it as a transparent, sticky liquid and some tools, and Abracadabra is a unique piece of art. this what makes it special.
It has also become the first choice for artists to preserve their paintings and add a shiny glossy touch to their paintings, clay, etc.
2. Construction and interior decor:
It is used in construction works as well as furniture such as chairs, tables and door knobs.
Resin crafting tips for beginners
1. Proper Mixing:
- Follow manufacturer guidelines for resin mixing ratios to ensure optimal curing and durability.
Do NOT add more hardener than the ratio stated on the package, as this will not make the piece harder.
2. Add pigmentation wisely
There are pigments designated for resin. Do not use non-specific pigments . Be careful not to add too much, as this may lead to it not drying or hardening properly.
3. Surface Preparation:
Make sure that the surface is clean and stable, and make sure to place all the resin supplies you will use around you.
4. Resin safety guidelines
Wear mask and gloves
Work in a well ventilated area, better to choose a type that does not emit a strong smell. There are many types that are friendly for the artist and barely smell.
5. Experimentation:
- Conduct small-scale experiments before large resin projects to understand how it works in different conditions. before spending much money and time, as resin needs many supplies, experience and time.
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resin basics