Resin has become increasingly popular within woodwork over the years, and is a great medium for making interesting and unique craft pieces.

There are a number of different types of resin that can be used in craft applications, art, woodworking and woodturning.

This article will explore some of the common types as well a look at some useful resin mixing and pouring tips and techniques to get you started in resin.

Watch our video

Watch Colwin in our Woodworking Wisdom video where he talks through tips for successful resin mixing and pouring.

Different resin types

The two main applications for resin in craft and woodwork is casting and coating. Casting resin is when resin is poured to form solid blocks, such as pen blanks, or poured with other materials such as timber, like table tops or decorative coasters. Coating resin is when a thin layer of resin is poured to cover a surface as a final finish or to seal a surface.

The most common resin used in art and craft projects is epoxy resin. This is used for both casting and coating and comes as two parts, referred to as either a resin and hardener or part A and part B.

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Epoxy resin is easy to use, leaves a high-gloss and is resistant to yellowing make it a great choice for crafting.

Polyester resin is an alternative choice for large scale projects, including sculptures and large castings. It has a quick curing time, is strong and a cost effective choice.

Finally, UV resin is a great choice for jewellery making and small embellishments to your projects. It is cured using UV light making it quick, mess free with no mixing required, and leaves a clear hard finish.

Resin mixing and pouring

Firstly for any casting or coating you need to ensure your work surfaces are clean, dust free and your work space is well ventilation. You may want to protect work surfaces with plastic sheeting also to capture any spills.

For the best results always follow the instructions provided with your resin. The type of resin or its application can effect the mixing.

Things to consider when mixing

Measuring - Measure your quantities very carefully as this needs to be precise as it could effect the drying time or consistency.

Pigments - If using multiple pigments in one pour then it's wise to mix a bigger batch and split out the mixture into separate vessels in order to add colour. Mixing it one batch will help keep the consistency of your different hues the same when it comes to pouring. Slowly add and mix your pigment to reach your desired effect - a few drops at a time. Mix thoroughly. The general rule with pigment is no greater than 6%.

mixing-pigments-1

Take your time - Mix your resin and hardener thoroughly and take your time. Don't worry too much about bubbles, these can be removed later.

Two pot mixing method - The general rule with mixing is to do an initial mix in one vessel and then pour into a second, clean vessel without scraping the sides to mix again.

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Quantities - Use online tools and equations to work out the amount you need by converting surface areas into millilitres. You can also use rice to fill the voids. By measuring the rice it can help give you quantities. Rice is good as it does not leave a residue on your work, but using an airline to clear away any dust on your project is a must.

What to consider when pouring resin

Before pouring, ensure your surface is level to ensure an even pour and that protective sheeting is put down to capture any spills.

Mold preparation - If using a mold, prepare it first by using a mold release spray.

Pour slowly - Pour slowly to control the spread. It will naturally spread but you can tease the resin with a stick to manipulate it.

resin-pour

Seal the edges - Seal the edges of your project with tape to avoid getting drips down the side and to leave a crisp edge. You can also sand the edges back to leave a smooth clean surface.

Be careful - When you begin pouring, do not scrape the walls of your mixing vessel, as you may scrape unmixed hardener into your resin pour, which could cause issues with your finish.

Clear coat - To add a final finish to your project you may want to add a clear, protective layer. Pour over the project and manipulate the resin until fully covered. Suggest the direction you want it to go and it will follow. Let it settle to fill any gaps.

Work in layers - If completing a big pour, then pour in layers to prevent heat build up. The heat build up of curing resin will very much depend on the type of resin you go for. If you cast too thick you can get a huge amount of heat build up.

Removing air bubbles in resin

One of the biggest issues with pouring resin is air bubbles. There are a couple of things to remember. Firstly, the less you disturb the resin when mixing, the fewer air bubbles you will get; and also, air bubbles can be removed so there is no need to panic.

The best way to get rid of air bubbles is using heat. Using a blow torch and applying a quick blast of heat over the surface will cause the bubbles to pop.

Air bubbles will rise and come out if mixing and pouring in cooler temperatures rather than warmer. The cooler your ambient temperature, the longer it will take to dry, but it will bring out all the bubbles.

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Project inspiration for resin

If you are looking for some project inspiration then why not chose from one of our many resin projects. We've selected a few our favourites below or why not browse our back catalogue.

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Projects

How to Make a Resin Ocean Art Clock

Epoxy Resin is a hugely popular medium for artists and crafters. With pigments and colours the many effects you can create is endless. Ocean art is hugely popular and can be applied to so any...