I often get asked this question ” What resin do I need for jewellery making? “, So I shall answer this for you now.
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If your new to resin crafting, choosing the right resin can feel confusing, but it does not have to be – the good news is that jewellery makers usually only need two types : UV resin and epoxy resin. Each one has its own strengths, depending on the style of piece you’re creating. I personally ONLY use UV resin for all of my jewellery pieces – but please read this post, for the purpose of different resins.
I must first mention safety – Please do follow all safety recommendations that should come with your resin or see my post here on using resin safely
UV Resin – Best Choice for Small, Thin Jewellery
UV resin is perfect for beginners and anyone making small, delicate pieces. I personally use LETS RESIN UV which you can see here at Amazon and as I only make small pieces I ONLY use UV Resin for my Jewellery pieces.
Why it works well:
- It Cures in minutes under a UV lamp which is perfect for small pieces (or a UV torch for very thin small pieces.)
- Great for applying thin layers to open bezels, small charms, small pendants or earrings
- Its easy to use – no mixing, measuring, less mess – no confusing ratios to get wrong
- You can build up in layers and cure as you go embedding tiny details as you go
So UV Resin is Ideal for :-
- Small Pendants, Earrings, Pendants, Small Charms
- Adding glossy top coats or domes – you can see my video tutorial on doming here
- Small Decorative Pieces
- Quick Projects
Downsides:-
There are just a couple of downsides, UV resin can yellow over time compared to a good epoxy resin.
Its really not good at all for a large pour – it simply will NOT cure evenly if at all. It may also be more brittle than epoxy resin
Epoxy Resin – Best for Thicker, Stronger Pieces
Epoxy resin is mixed in two parts and takes longer to cure , but it creates a stronger, clearer finish. Again I use LETS RESIN EPOXY you can check it out here on Amazon
So when should you use Epoxy Resin:-
- Well I find epoxy resin is great for thicker pieces of jewellery such as chunky pendants or Bangles
- It has crystal clear long term clarity, so long as you buy a good brand they tend to yellow less.
- Epoxy resin is stronger than UV giving less brittle results
- You need epoxy resin for bigger pours like molds, coasters, and layered pieces
So epoxy resin is ideal for :-
- Chunky pendants
- Moulded Shapes
- Projects that need strength
Downsides :
No instant results – it takes 12- 48 hours to cure, Accurate measuring and mixing is essential and it is prone to more bubbles unless warmed or pressure – cured (I will go into this in more detail in a future post)
So Back to the Original Question – What Resin Do I Need?.
For thin, detailed or quick jewellery projects – choose UV resin
For thicker, moulded or long-lasting pieces – choose epoxy resin.
Most jewellery makers end up using both, depending on the project.
I do hope this has cleared up your confusion of what resin to use for your intended projects and wish you all Happy Crafting Days ahead – resin is fun, but remember your safety checks and enjoy.