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Plastic Art – A Beginner’s Guide


An epoxy resin is a hard, resin-like substance (polymer or prep) that contains epoxides. Usually, the resin is mixed with a hardener or curing agent that creates a chemical reaction and causes the mixture to cure or harden.

Epoxy resins can be purchased in all different types of fabrication kits, as well as used in larger home projects or even industrial projects. But for this post, I am mainly focusing on plastic art or craft projects that can be made from epoxy resin.

Plastic art is any art or craft project made with colored epoxy or with added objects (wrapped in it) and serves an aesthetic purpose that can range from coffee table ARRIVE eardrop.

We’ve shared a LOT of epoxy resin projects on this blog over the years, so I wanted to put together a beginner’s guide with all the information someone might want to get started.

Related: Looking for more DIY projects? Our full test archival crafts for years of great craft projects.

Here is a video on how to use epoxy resin:

Munition

I also used some hair from my son’s first haircut for this project. I wanted to save some of his early locks in a Christmas ornament as a keepsake.

The best epoxy resin product to make

  • Jewelry/Small project set – we have bought this so many times over the years! It is easy to use and comes with all the basics you need beyond the template.
  • Larger set of projects – for people who want to do lots of small projects or something bigger like a coffee table or countertop.
  • coaster mold – this set also comes with a coaster storage box mold.
  • jewelry mold – for jewelry molds, I like molds with holes to add hoops or other jewelry finishes.
  • kitchen torch – great for removing bubbles, especially for larger pieces. Also you can use this for ice cream brûlée.

How to use epoxy resin

  • Prepare your work area and template. You want to make sure the mold is clean and that you’ve protected any work surfaces in case there’s a supply.
  • Mix epoxy resin and hardener together. Most kits will ask you to measure 1:1, but check the instructions on your rosin products to be sure.
  • Add the ingredients and pour the plastic mixture into the mold.
  • Use toothpicks to align or push the elements into the plastic more. Sometimes, you can also pop any bubbles that form in the turpentine with a toothpick.
  • Allows complete processing of works; normally, this takes 10-24 hours depending on your plastic product, so check the instructions.
  • Take your object out of the mold. You can add decorations, such as adding ribbons to decorations, etc.

Epoxy resin project

  1. DIY epoxy resin coffee table – I sealed the photos and paved the agate, but you can make coins if you want that vintage look
  2. Glitter coasters
  3. Homemade imitation terracotta countertops – a larger scale project with an epoxy resin seal
  4. DIY epoxy resin jewelry – with glitter and sprinkles
  5. Colorful epoxy coating table
  6. Jewelry box – a fun gift idea
  7. Alcohol ink plastic coasters – very fun and colorful!
  8. DIY chrysanthemum earrings
  9. Glitter letter keychain
  10. Epoxy Statement Necklace – With pictures

What are the different types of plastic?

  • Epoxy – Best for craft and small home projects, especially for beginners. It has a low odor. Once mixed, you’ll have a short time to cast your pieces (usually 20 minutes or less) and the epoxy usually dries within 24 hours.
  • Polyester – Stronger odor but difficult to handle. A good choice if you want something hard enough that you can sand it.
  • Polyurethane – More sensitive but dries very quickly. If you want a resin that dries quickly (hardens), this is the best choice.

Tips for success

  • Prepare the work pieces – have everything ready before you mix the rosin.
  • Prepare the workspace – cover surfaces with scrap paper or rags and make sure your molds or other supplies are free of dust and debris; otherwise, dust can be trapped in your plastic forever.
  • Wear gloves and consider protective eyewear, especially if you are working with larger pieces. You may also want to work in a well-ventilated area or outdoors, but there must be a way to cover or protect your building from the weather.
  • A heat gun or a kitchen flashlight is the best way to remove bubbles from larger surfaces. If your project is smaller, such as jewelry, you can use a toothpick to remove bubbles.

frequently asked Questions

Is plastic art expensive?

Not really. Plastic art can be relatively inexpensive, especially if you’re working on smaller projects like coasters or jewelry. Larger projects that require more epoxy resin and other supplies can become more expensive.

Is resin art difficult?

No, anyone can have success with plastic art projects. However, if you are working on a turpentine art project with children, be aware that they are fully supervised as chemicals are involved.

Can you paint on epoxy resin?

Correct. Most epoxy resins can be painted after curing, although there are different grades, so check your product description. You can also tint the plastic with paint.

Do you have a question about plastic art? What projects will you try?


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how to make decorations or coasters with epoxy resin

prepare 5 minute

Healing time twelfth hour

Chef 5 minute

total twelfth hour ten minute

Instruct

  • Prepare your work area and template. You want to make sure the mold is clean and that you’ve protected any work surfaces in case supplies are available.

  • Mix epoxy resin and hardener together. Most kits will ask you to measure 1:1, but check the instructions on your rosin products to be sure.

  • Add the ingredients and pour the plastic mixture into the mold.

  • Use toothpicks to align or push the elements into the plastic more. Sometimes, you can also pop any bubbles that form in the turpentine with a toothpick.

  • Allows complete processing of works; normally, this takes 10-24 hours depending on your plastic product, so check the instructions.

  • Take your object out of the mold. You can add decorations, such as adding ribbons to decorations, etc.

note

  • I also used some hair from my son’s first haircut for this project. I wanted to save some of his early locks in a Christmas ornament as a keepsake.

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