Epoxy Resin for Casting
CASTING RESINS
Understanding Casting Resins
If you're looking to dive into the captivating world of resin casting, you’ve landed in the right place. If you're a seasoned artist or just starting your creative journey, understanding the essential tools and materials for casting resin can make all the difference. From beautifully crafted art pieces to functional items, resin casting opens up endless possibilities. Get ready to explore everything from slow cast resin techniques to choosing the perfect silicone moulds for your projects!
This guide to resin art casting will equip you with knowledge and tips that will elevate your casting skills and ensure stunning results every time. Let’s jump in!
Which Resin Is Best For Casting?
Choosing the right resin for casting is crucial to your project’s success. For beginners, a fast cast resin works well due to its quick cure time and ease of use. It’s perfect for small projects or when you want immediate results.
On the other hand, art cast resin offers more flexibility with longer working times. This allows for intricate designs and detailed pours. If you're aiming for depth in your pieces, deep cast resin is ideal as it can handle thicker layers without compromising clarity.
Casting Resin Characteristics
Epoxy casting resin is a type of two-part epoxy resin that is specifically designed for creating shallow castings. It has a low viscosity, meaning it is very thin and flows easily, making it ideal for casting projects that are not very deep. Here are some key features of epoxy casting resin:
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Low Viscosity: As mentioned, epoxy casting resin has a low viscosity which allows it to flow easily and evenly into moulds, even in shallow areas.
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Self-Levelling: This type of resin is self-levelling, meaning it will spread out and level itself when poured into a silicone mould or DIY mould. This helps to eliminate air bubbles and creates a smooth finish to the cast.
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Clear and Transparent: Epoxy casting resin dries to a crystal clear finish, making it perfect for embedding objects or creating transparent castings.
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UV Resistant: High-quality epoxy casting resins are UV resistant, ensuring that your finished project won't yellow or fade over time.
Casting Comparison Guide
When exploring Just Resins casting resins, you’ll find a range of options tailored to different projects.
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Just Resin Fast Cast - Fast cast resin sets quickly, making it ideal for shallower pours where working the resin is not required.​​
​​Just Resin Slow Cast - On the other hand, slow cast resin allows for deeper pours and intricate details but requires more time to cure.​​
​Just Resin RiverPour - RiverPour is a deep pour resin that can be poured in layers of up to 50 mm at a time. This makes it perfect for creating river tables and other large-scale projects.​
​Just Resin ARC - ARC is Acrylic Resin Composite, also know as an eco resin. Comes in two components, a mineral powder base and a water-based acrylic liquid. Also known as eco resin, acrylic resin is a versatile and environmentally friendly material that has gained popularity in recent years.​
Understanding these differences helps in selecting the right type of Epoxy Casting Resins for your needs. If you're crafting art pieces or functional items, knowing which resin suits your project ensures better results and fewer headaches along the way.
Step-By-Step Guide To Casting Art With Resin
Casting art with resin is an exciting journey that allows creativity to flourish. To help you get started, here’s a simple step-by-step guide.
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Step 1
First, gather your materials. You will need your casting resin, silicone moulds or resin moulds suited for your project, and any additives like pigments or glitter if desired. Make sure you have a mixing container and stir sticks as well.
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Step 2
Next, prepare your workspace. Ensure it's clean and free from dust to maintain the integrity of the castings. Cover surfaces with plastic sheets for easy cleanup later on.
Step 3
Now it’s time to mix the resin casting according to the instructions provided in your resin casting kit. Most two-part systems consist of a resin and hardener that need to be combined in precise measurements for optimal results. (acrylic resin will require a catalyst or hardener added to the resin as well).
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Step 4
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Slowly mix the components together using a stir stick, making sure to incorporate all the resin from the sides and bottom of the container. Stir for at least two minutes to ensure the resin and hardener are completely blended.
Step 5
Once mixed thoroughly—watch out for air bubbles! Pour slowly into your chosen silicone moulds or deep cast resin forms. If you're adding additional elements like flowers or beads, add them after pouring some initial layers of clear casting resin.
Step 6
After pouring is complete, allow sufficient curing time as specified by the manufacturer’s guidelines before demoulding your creations carefully. This ensures they hold their shape without damage.
Step 7
Once fully cured, feel free to sand edges if necessary and apply any finishing touches such as polishing or sealing with a topcoat designed for epoxy resin castings.
With these steps in mind, you can explore endless possibilities while creating unique art pieces through casting with clear resin! Happy crafting!
Crystal Clear Casting
Just Resins range of crystal clear casting epoxy resin is a favourite among artists and crafters alike. Its transparency allows for stunning finishes that showcase colours, textures, and embedded objects beautifully.
When mixed properly, it cures to a hard finish that resists yellowing over time. Ideal for projects requiring precision and clarity, JR's crystal clear casting resin range elevates any art piece with its glossy surface.
Deep Pouring Resin
The Best Deep Pour Epoxy Resin, RiverPour is a low viscosity epoxy resin system. It is specifically designed for deep pouring applications, allowing you to pour up to 50mm in a single layer without compromising its clarity. It is perfect for creating river tables, ocean-inspired art, and other large-scale projects. With a low exothermic reaction, RiverPour is also suitable for casting delicate objects and embedding materials without causing them to overheat. Ideal for medium to large projects, RiverPour cures to a crystal clear finish that is UV resistant and heat resistant.
Epoxy Casting Resin For Slower Art Casting
Epoxy casting resin designed for slower art casting is perfect for intricate projects. This type of resin allows more time to manipulate and refine your design before it sets. Artists appreciate the extended working period, which enhances creativity.
With slow cast resin, you can achieve detailed layers and complex patterns effortlessly. It's particularly useful for deep cast applications where precision is key. By slowly pouring the resin into moulds or layering it, you ensure a smooth finish that showcases every detail beautifully.
Slow cast epoxy resin is also ideal for creating river tables, where the resin needs to flow and fill in every nook and cranny of the wood. It can also be used for embedding objects or creating jewellery pieces with multiple layers.
When working with slower casting resins, it's important to carefully measure and mix the components according to the manufacturer's instructions. This will ensure that the resin cures properly and produces a durable and flawless finish.
Overall, if you want to create intricate and detailed art pieces or need more time to perfect your design, a slower casting epoxy resin is the way to go. Just be patient and take your time during the curing process, and you'll be rewarded with stunning results.
Epoxy Casting Resin For Shallow Castings
Fast cast resin is the go-to option for shallow castings, typically less than 1/4 inch in depth. It sets quickly, allowing you to work on multiple layers or pieces in a short amount of time. This makes it perfect for creating small decorative items, jewellery, or coasters. Fast cast resin also has a lower viscosity, which means it flows easily and can fill in all the details of a mould or shape. This makes it popular for use in silicone moulds, as it can capture intricate designs and textures with ease.
Eco Casting Resin
Eco casting resin is a more environmentally friendly option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. This type of resin is made from renewable resources, such as plant-based oils, and has a lower impact on the environment compared to traditional resins. It also produces fewer harmful fumes and is biodegradable, making it a popular choice among eco-conscious artists. Despite its eco-friendly properties, it still produces a strong and durable finish that is perfect for a wide range of casting projects.
Choosing The Perfect Silicone Moulds For Your Project
When choosing silicone moulds, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you get the best results.
Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- The shape and size of your desired casting: Silicone moulds come in various shapes and sizes, from simple geometric shapes to intricate designs. Consider the size and depth of your desired casting and choose a mould that will accommodate it.
- Material compatibility: Not all silicone moulds are suitable for use with resin. Make sure to check the packaging or product description to see if the mould is compatible with epoxy resin. Some moulds may be designed for use with other materials like soap or chocolate, which may not be suitable for resin castings.
- Flexibility and durability: Look for silicone moulds that are flexible and durable. This will make it easier to remove your castings without causing any damage to the mould.
- Ease of use: Some silicone moulds may have intricate designs or details that can be difficult to remove from the mould. Look for moulds with a smooth and simple design for easy demoulding. You can also use mould release spray or baby powder to help with the demoulding process.
- Reusability: Silicone moulds can be used multiple times, but they may lose their shape or become damaged after repeated use. Look for moulds that are designed to be reusable and durable.
- Budget: Silicone moulds can range in price, so consider your budget when making a selection. Keep in mind that quality moulds may cost more upfront, but they will last longer and provide better results in the long run.
By considering these factors, you can choose the perfect silicone moulds for your project and create beautiful resin castings with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions And Casting Tips
Essential Tools And Materials You Should Have
Epoxy resin casting involves a few key tools and materials that are essential for success. The most important component is, of course, the casting resin itself—available in various types like, deep pour, fast cast and slow cast resins. You'll also need hardeners to ensure proper curing.
Eco casting resin is a popular choice as it is non-toxic and environmentally friendly. You'll also need measuring cups, mixing sticks, silicone moulds, and any additional elements you want to include in your casting, such as flowers or beads.
In addition to your resin, consider investing in quality silicone moulds for shaping your creations.
It's also helpful to have a heat gun or torch for removing air bubbles and a level surface for pouring.
Mixing cups, stir sticks, and safety gear should also be part of your toolkit.
With these essentials on hand, you're ready to unleash your creativity!
Troubleshooting Common Issues In Epoxy Resin Casting
Troubleshooting common issues in epoxy resin casting is essential for achieving perfect results. Bubbles often appear during mixing or pouring; using a heat gun can help eliminate them. If your castings are sticky, it may be due to improper mixing or inadequate curing time—ensure you're following the recommended ratios and waiting long enough before demolding.
Cloudy finishes can arise from dust contamination or moisture; always work in a clean, dry environment. If your pieces turn out brittle, consider switching to a different type of casting resin that offers more flexibility. Remember that practice makes perfect, so don’t get discouraged by initial setbacks. With patience and experience, you’ll master the art of resin casting and create stunning pieces every time!
Tips For Successful Resin Casting
When diving into resin casting, preparation is key. Always gather your materials before starting. This includes your resin mixture, moulds, and any additives.
Work in a well-ventilated area to minimise fumes. A mask can help keep you safe too.
Temperature matters! Ensure both the room and materials are at optimal temperatures for better results. Too cold or hot can impact curing times.
Measure accurately using a scale for precision. Small discrepancies in ratios can lead to issues with setting or clarity.
Keep an eye on bubbles as they form during mixing. Use a heat gun or torch lightly over the surface to pop them quickly.
Patience is crucial when working with deep cast resin. Allow ample time for each layer to cure thoroughly if you're building up depth or adding items within the layers of art cast resin projects. Each step counts toward achieving that perfect finish!
What Is Epoxy Casting Resin Used For?
Pouring epoxy casting resin is a type of casting resin that is used for clear encapsulation and suspensions. This epoxy casting resin can be tinted with translucent dyes, shimmery mica, and opaque pigments to create different effects. The deep pour resin is poured into a mould and then cured to keep its shape. Casting epoxy resin is commonly used to create crafts, jewellery, sculptures, and memorabilia. Just Resin has developed a type of casting epoxy resin designed for deeper pours, these resin pours specifically require a deep pour epoxy resin for optimal clarity and results. The resin range available of deep pour epoxy resin is easy to work with and provides a high-quality finish. With proper care and preparation, Just Resins deep pour epoxy resin can produce stunning casting results.
What's The Difference Between Epoxy Casting Resin And Epoxy Coating Resins?
Casting resin and epoxy coating resins are both popular materials used in various crafting and DIY projects. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences between the two. One of the main differences is their purpose. Casting resin is specifically designed for creating moulds and castings, while epoxy coating resin is often used for coating surfaces or making small repairs. This difference in purpose also affects their properties and characteristics. In terms of consistency, casting resin tends to be thicker and more viscous than coating resin. This makes it better suited for pouring into moulds without running or dripping out before it hardens. Epoxy resin, on the other hand, has a thinner consistency which allows it to spread easily over surfaces.
Want to learn more? We have other How To like Casting Resin Projects, Create Resin Art, How To Make A Resin Art Cheese Board and also great information on like What is Pigment Paste For Resin, What Can I Put in Epoxy Resin and The Effects of Humidity on Epoxy. Have any other questions about our products? Please checkout our FAQ Page.
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Disclaimer: Before pouring any resin, please make sure you read the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before use. Outcome can vary depending on weather, humidity, mass and other unforeseen factors. All recommendations are for informational purposes only. Just Resin assumes no responsibility, since the method of application and its use is beyond our control. It is the responsibility of the user to ensure a proper assessment has been carried out. No representation or warranties, either expressed or implied, or merchantability, fitness for purpose or any other nature are made here under with Respect to the product to which this information refers.
Please take note a resin table can also be referred to as an epoxy table, river table, river pour table or epoxy resin table. More popular content is seen online referring to river tables, epoxy river tables and river resin tables.
