There are many different types of resin available and each of these have different characteristics that suit different applications. It can be very confusing for a novice.  After much research we have decided to offer Epoxy and Urethane resins as we find these the simplest and easiest to use – it does help that they are so reasonably priced too with very little odour.

Anyone can use these resins as they are very simple to mix – using a 50:50 ratio.  Simply mix together, add colour, glitter, embellishments etc and pour into a mould.  Always follow the manufacturers mixing and curing instructions.

Our resins are simple to use, cost effective and you can create gorgeous designer style jewellery without any prior knowledge or specialist tools.

Listed below is a short description of the products we supply and how to use them and further along are some Hot Tips:

Urethane Resins

This includes the Alumilite Water Clear, Amazing Casting Resin (white) and Alumilite Regular (Tan).  Al these resins work best in Deep Casting applications and have a demould time of 3 to 60 minutes.  You will also need to mix them in equal quantities (by volume or weight) but for only about 20 seconds or until the “swirls” disappear.  You can only use powdered pigments with these resins.  Remember to add the colour to the first part before mixing in the second part as the resins may cure before you have time to colour them.

       
Transparent & Opaque Liquid Colourants

Best used with Epoxy and Polyester Resins.  You will only need a drop or two to colour a large amount of resin.  Too much may upset the resin balance and result in your pieces not curing.  These will last you a very long time. Remember to store them in air tight self seal bags as they can leak.

         

Pearlex Pigment Powders

These create beautiful opaque pearlescent effects in resins and a very little goes a long way.  Can be used in all types of resins

   

Resin Moulds

The moulds shown on this page does not need any mould release agent and can be used over and over again.  To clean, use a paper towel and surgical spirits.  You can wash them in a mild solution of washing up liquid and water but remember to rinse them well and dry thoroughly before using again.  Be careful when handling as any scratches on the inside of the moulds will transfer to your finished pieces.  Use a soft “face powder” type brush to remove any dust.
 
Hot Tips

1.       Work in a well ventilated area that is draught free.

2.       Moisture will adversely affect resins and can cause air pockets, bubbles, etc.

3.       If you plan on using pictures or photographs, remember to seal them first with a clear spray varnish or PVA glue.  This will prevent any moisture escaping or colour bleeding.

4.       Resin dyes and pigments can stain so you may want to use gloves or an apron to protect your clothes

5.       It is not advisable to eat or drink whilst working with resins for Health and Safety reasons

6.       Use a silicon moulding compound to create your very own non-stick moulds

7.       Try and use moulds that do not require a mould release agent.

8.       To ensure your resin pieces cure properly, place them on a level surface in a warm dust free environment.  Airing cupboards are excellent for this.

9.       Use a craft heat gun to disperse any bubbles that appear in resins before they cure.

10.    Do not re-use your mixing containers as they may contain remnants of previous mixes and can contaminate the new batch.

11.    Dry out and seal any natural products that you want to use, e.g. Leaves, Shells, etc.

12.    Use only moisture free elements in Urethane resins.

13.    Always store resins out of direct sunlight and not below 16 degrees C

14.    Surgical spirits are excellent for cleaning up any spilled resin or colourants before they cure.

15.    To calculate the amount of resin you need for a particular mould, pour in some water and measure.  Remember to dry out the mould before using again.