Best Epoxy Resin for Casting

Best Epoxy Resin for Casting - My top 4 epoxy resins for your casting

Are you thinking about which epoxy resin is ideal for casting? Here are a few things that will help you out. Epoxy resins are chemical substances made in laboratories.

There are many types of epoxy resins, and depending upon that, they are used for different purposes. Some kinds of epoxy resins are formed naturally, while some are made artificially.

You can buy epoxy resins online as well as offline. They are available as a set of epoxy resin and a hardener. You can also buy them without the hardener.

Some common applications of epoxy resins are- making metal coatings, LED lights, electronic devices, insulators, paintbrushes, plastic or synthetic materials, and adhesives.

They are also used for crafting purposes such as making jewelry, river table tops, souvenirs, etc.

Epoxy Resins For Casting –

Note that the epoxy resins used for casting differ from ‘tabletop epoxy resins.’ The epoxy resins used for casting are also known as ‘thick pour resins.’ Both are popular when it comes to their uses.

They are quite similar in their formula, yet they have many differences. Casting resins are thicker. They have a higher density and viscosity. They have a unique process of working.

We need to know what structures are required for our task and choose the right one accordingly. Otherwise, we may end up ruining it. Casting is the process of making objects by putting the mixtures into molds to form objects of any shape and size.

Casting epoxy resins are mainly used for making showpieces, jewelry, etc., where more product is required. If you try using the tabletop epoxy resin for this, you will need many pours or coatings.

Casting resins also start setting faster than tabletop epoxy resins. The advantage of this is that you don’t have to wait for too long for the product to be formed.

Also, there will not be any cracks or bubbles in your cast. However, the disadvantage is that you will not have much time to work on your model or make any changes to it.

Image
Deep Pour Epoxy Resin Liquid Glass 0.75 Gallon / 96 oz Kit, 2-4 inch Super Clear...
DR CRAFTY Clear Epoxy Resin - Table Top Epoxy Resin Kit - 1 Gallon Epoxy Resin...
32 OZ Epoxy Resin Clear for Resin Molds, Resin Epoxy Starter Kit, 2 Part Resin...
Winner
Art ‘N Glow Epoxy Resin for Clear Casting and Coating - 1 Gallon Kit - Perfect...
Title
Deep Pour Epoxy Resin Liquid Glass 0.75 Gallon / 96 oz Kit, 2-4 inch Super Clear...
DR CRAFTY Clear Epoxy Resin - Table Top Epoxy Resin Kit - 1 Gallon Epoxy Resin...
32 OZ Epoxy Resin Clear for Resin Molds, Resin Epoxy Starter Kit, 2 Part Resin...
Art ‘N Glow Epoxy Resin for Clear Casting and Coating - 1 Gallon Kit - Perfect...
Customer Rating
-
-
-
-
Price
$$
$$
$$
$$
Prime
-
-
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
Image
Deep Pour Epoxy Resin Liquid Glass 0.75 Gallon / 96 oz Kit, 2-4 inch Super Clear...
Title
Deep Pour Epoxy Resin Liquid Glass 0.75 Gallon / 96 oz Kit, 2-4 inch Super Clear...
Customer Rating
-
Price
$$
Prime
-
Image
DR CRAFTY Clear Epoxy Resin - Table Top Epoxy Resin Kit - 1 Gallon Epoxy Resin...
Title
DR CRAFTY Clear Epoxy Resin - Table Top Epoxy Resin Kit - 1 Gallon Epoxy Resin...
Customer Rating
-
Price
$$
Prime
-
Image
32 OZ Epoxy Resin Clear for Resin Molds, Resin Epoxy Starter Kit, 2 Part Resin...
Title
32 OZ Epoxy Resin Clear for Resin Molds, Resin Epoxy Starter Kit, 2 Part Resin...
Customer Rating
-
Price
$$
Prime
Amazon Prime
Winner
Image
Art ‘N Glow Epoxy Resin for Clear Casting and Coating - 1 Gallon Kit - Perfect...
Title
Art ‘N Glow Epoxy Resin for Clear Casting and Coating - 1 Gallon Kit - Perfect...
Customer Rating
-
Price
$$
Prime
Amazon Prime

We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info

4. FGCI Deep Pour Epoxy Resin Kit 2 to 4 Inches –

If you want to cast deep like a pyramid or aquarium, this epoxy from FGCI is your friend. It cures crystal clear, is VOC-free, has UV resistance, and allows 2-4 inches to pour at a time. You don’t need to wait days to pour, so it’s way faster here.

This epoxy has thin viscosity that flows like water, which is fantastic as it reduces bubbles and fills in tiny spaces in complex molds(or other pieces). But it also carries the con of leaking out if your container has some crack.

It comes with two bottles and instructions. You have to mix the resin and hardener in a 2:1 ratio and read the instructions carefully before use. I have noticed absolutely no odor here, which is fantastic.

I tried making pyramids, aquariums, and coasters in geode-shaped molds(with some glitter), and they came out nice and beautiful. I am amazed at how clear it really is, like not even microbubbles that resins usually have.

Now, the bubbles don’t pop themselves; you have to use a torch or heat gun. This epoxy cures super clear in around 72 hours. To add colors, you can use mica powder, liquid pigments, and alcohol inks and dyes. It mixes really nicely and holds the color well.

I tried adding fine glitter, and it worked great too.  Like others, it also has a UV additive formulation that resists yellowing from the sun, but unlike most, it has zero VOC and is FDA compliant, so it’s safe to keep food around.

I love it the most because you can sand the epoxy once it fully cures. So, you can achieve the best pyramid or dice shape without a problem. The only complaint I have is the long cure time of 72 hours.

Pros

  • Cures crystal clear, is VOC free, and has UV resistance
  • It allows a deep pour of 2-4 inches
  • The thin viscosity makes it easy to mix and use
  • No awful smell like other resins
  • You can add mica and glitter to add tint and shine
  • The bubbles pop really easy with a torch

Cons

  • A long cure time of 72 hours
Sale
Deep Pour Epoxy Resin Liquid Glass 0.75 Gallon / 96 oz Kit, 2-4 inch Super Clear...
  • TRUE DEEP POUR: Experience the ease of 2-4 inch pours with our advanced Liquid Glass Deep Pour Epoxy. Perfect...
  • UNMATCHED DURABILITY: Crafted to endure, Superclear 2.0 sets the standard for strength. Its rock-hard curing...
  • BUBBLE-LESS TECHNOLOGY: Say goodbye to imperfections with our low viscosity Liquid Glass Epoxy. Its unique...

We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info

3. DR CRAFTY Crystal Clear Epoxy Casting Resin 1 Gallon –

This epoxy always surprises me. It’s cheaper than others and comes with a couple of generous bonuses like two measuring cups, two large sticks, and two plastic spreaders. So, you don’t have to spend extra on buying them outside; it’s already included here.

You get two half gallons that need 1:1 mixing. Here, the hardener is thinner than the resin and pours faster, so pour it carefully. You can bathe it in warm water to make mixing ten times easier and get fewer bubbles.

I like the consistency, and the fact that it doesn’t have any odor makes it easy to work with. It dries very clearly and is glossy if no color is added. I added mica and glitter; it mixed well and held the color nicely. I’ll suggest reading the manual before using it.

When mixed, many bubbles appear, but given three minutes, most of them float to the top and literally pop themselves, while the rest pops while pouring. I hardly have to use a heat gun or torch, which is impressive.

You can try mixing and pouring it slowly to avoid most bubbles, but nonetheless, they’ll pop easily, either themselves or with little help from a heat gun. This resin is fully resistant to yellowing and is non-toxic, but don’t keep it outside permanently.

This gives you 45 minutes of work time, cures pretty hard in 24 hours, and fully cures in 72 hours. You can still demold in 12-16 hours, so not a big deal, but lie it flat until 72 hours pass to ensure it cures clear.

Pros

  • It’s cheaper than others and also comes with a couple of bonuses
  • It mixes well with mica, glitter, and other embellishments
  • Dries clear and has no odor
  • It has a lot fewer bubbles than most resins
  • It’s non-toxic and fully resistant to yellowing
  • You can demold in 12 hours, and have 45 minutes of work time

Cons

  • It hardens in 24 hours but fully cures in 72 hours
DR CRAFTY Clear Epoxy Resin - Table Top Epoxy Resin Kit - 1 Gallon Epoxy Resin...
  • Create Amazing Art - Unleash the artist in you, and bring your ideas to life! Make anything from jewelry to...
  • Easy as 1-2-3 - (beginner-friendly, comes with a manual) Epoxy resin art is so simple and fun to produce! Even...
  • From Small Pieces to Big Masterpieces - Make several small items, like earrings, pendants, and such, or coat...

We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info

2. Puduo Epoxy Resin Casting and Coating Starter Kit –

When it comes to casting, this is perfect. It gives you the best bubble-free hard cure in just 8 hours. I can do my casting at night, and they are ready to take out of their molds by morning. It’s amazing if you want to make a big batch but have few molds.

After eight hours, they are still malleable, so let them sit for another 24-48 hours, and they cure rock hard. You get two 16 oz bottles, a resin, and a hardener that needs a 1:1 mix. Also, you get 4 cups, three sticks, and a pair of gloves as a Bonus gift.

It gets minimal to no bubbles that quickly disappear with a heat gun. You can also warm the bottles before mixing to solve the bubble problem. You can bathe it under warm water for that. It doesn’t have any noticeable smell, so you can focus on your craft rather than some nasty smell.

I’ve made trinket trays and resin animals with it, and it cured crystal clear. It also creates a bit of magnification for whatever items you suspend in it. Once mixed, you have 30-45 minutes of work time, which is more than enough.

It cures crystal clear but also takes color well. This is the only epoxy with a 100% money-back guarantee; now you know this is the best one. If you want more quantity, check their 1 Gallon kit.

Pros

  • Bubble-free hard cure in 8 hours
  • It gets minimal to no bubbles that disappear with a heat gun
  • No nasty smell like other resins
  • It has 30-45 minutes of work time but fully cures within 24 hours
  • It cures crystal clear and bubbles but takes colors well
  • 100% money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Absolutely Nothing
32 OZ Epoxy Resin Clear for Resin Molds, Resin Epoxy Starter Kit, 2 Part Resin...
  • Prefect fro Any Artist’s Project : PUDUO Epoxy Resin has been created specifically for the resin art marker!...
  • Unique Fast Curing Crystal Clear Resin - Our PUDUO quick curing resin finished casting can be remove within 8...
  • High-Gloss & UV Resistant: Our resin epoxy is self leveling epoxy resin, Clear high gloss and scratched free...

We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info

1. Art ‘N Glow Clear Casting and Coating Epoxy Resin –

I have tested tons of casting epoxies, which stand above the crowd. It sets incredibly clear, is easy to mix, has no odor, and is priced well for the quality. It’s even among the best epoxy for jewelry and tumbler, so you can expect great results from this one.

You get two half Gallons that need 1:1 mixing to make a Gallon-full Epoxy. It has minimal to no smell, making it fine to work with. It’s quite thick, especially the hardener, sometimes making it difficult to mix and use.

I recommend running the bottles under hot water for a couple of minutes before mixing. It’ll thin it enough to use efficiently and also eliminate most of the bubbles. It left with very few bubbles that the torch took care of. It clears crystal clear when not mixed with any pigment.

I have added alcohol inks, micas, pigments, acrylic paint, and even house paint(for testing), and it cured well every time. It cures within 24 hours, but you can demold it after about 12 hours, but make sure to wear gloves, or it may capture your fingerprints.

It’s self-leveling and self-degassing, so it clearly settles with minimum bubbles. I used it to cast molds, Pyraminds, and even a mini aquarium, and it came out really well.

There were little micro-bubbles, but the torch popped them. It has added UV inhibitors that prevent yellowing from the sun, and since it has no BPA or VOC, it’s quite safe to use.

Pros

  • Incredibly clear, easy to mix, and is priced well
  • Way fewer bubbles that easily pop by a torch.
  • It cures within 24 hours, but you demold in around 12 hours.
  • It is self-leveling and self-degassing
  • The UV inhibitors prevent yellowing from the sun.
  • No BPA or VOC is present here.
  • It can be mixed with alcohol inks, mica, pigments, etc., to add tint/color.

Cons

  • Nothing
Art ‘N Glow Epoxy Resin for Clear Casting and Coating - 1 Gallon Kit - Perfect...
  • DEPENDABLE QUALITY: Art ‘N Glow’s clear epoxy resin kit is designed to work with our glow in the dark and...
  • FORMULATION PERFECTED: All resin is not created equally. Our epoxy includes expensive additives such as UV...
  • SAFE AND DURABLE: Looking for a fun DIY home improvement or art project? Our resin hardens to 80+ Shore D, is...

We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info

Things You Can Add For Decoration –

Casting Resin Guide – Best Products and How to do Resin Casting

While working with epoxy resins, you can get as creative as possible. There are many DIY ideas you can use. This is because you can cast or embed any material in epoxy resins. There are meager chances of any chemical reactions or side effects.

As long as you see that you don’t add any reactive chemicals to it, you are good to go. You can embed anything ranging from crystals, pearls, flowers, different colors, glitter, leaves, petals, strings, papers, coins, etc.

You can make a collection of different types of flowers. You can do this by making coasters. You can add different types of flowers to each coaster. They can be of different colors, shapes, etc.

Then you can label them according to their species and segregate them accordingly. You can do the same with insects or coins. It will look better if you keep the coasters crystal clear and don’t add any colors to them while making these collections.

This will help because you should be able to see the embedded objects clearly. So try not to add anything other than the items you are embedding. However, if you are making jewelry in molds, then you can add any color you want.

It will be best suited in this case. You can add glitters, beads, etc., to your jewelry. You can also add these decorations to keychains, souvenirs, showpieces, geodes, table-tops, etc.

Take These Precautions Before Handling Epoxy Resin –

Clear Epoxy Resin for tables bartop marine repair jewelry casting – Kasiak Gallery

You should take care of yourself before you start any project. You will need proper gear and other tools to avoid any side effects. Resins are harmless if you take a few precautions.

You need to wear protective clothing like a lab coat or an apron, jeans, and shoes. You also need to wear industrial goggles to protect your eyes from any emitted fumes while the resin is setting.

Also, to avoid many fumes, keep the doors and windows of your workroom open. The room should be ventilated. Check which room has cross ventilation and work there.

Another important thing is that epoxy resins start heating up when they begin setting. So gloves are essential. But also, you should try not to touch the molds or resins while they are forming.

Use silicone molds for making jewelry as silicone has a high heat tolerance, and your molds won’t react with the resin while it is setting. Also, the coasters or any other items you will use as molds should be silicone.

Resins won’t harm the surface as long as it is made of hard and sturdy material. For example, you can pour it on wood, stones, cement surfaces, tiles, etc.

Procedure For Making Geodes With Epoxy Resin –

Best resin casting products and How to use it for Resin Casting

Geodes are very trendy these days. They look like precious crystals that have been mined. They give a positive aura to any room, and they look great on table-tops as decorations. To make geodes using epoxy resin, follow these simple steps.

1. First, decide your workspace and how big you want your geode to be. You will need a wooden or plastic table to pour your resin. Use a silicone sheet to cover your table if possible.

2. Accordingly, measure your ingredients. We recommend one part epoxy resin and one part hardener.

3. Make sure you wear gloves, an apron, protective goggles, and other necessary gear.

4. Then, keep all your ingredients ready. You will need three decorative colors, one silicone sealant tube, ice cream sticks, or silicone spoons for mixing, glitter, and mica flakes.

5. Use at least three colors for your geode to look bright and attractive. You will need the silicone sealant for outlining your mold. Next, outline your geode with a marker. Try to keep it random.

6. Then, pour silicone sealant along this margin. You will need at least 2 to 3 coats to make the margin thick enough. Once this margin dries, mix your resin with the hardener.

7. Pour the resin into three different cups first. Then, add a different color to each cup. Mix it well using ice cream sticks. You can use brown and yellow for the outer stone-like part. Use any bright color for making the inner crystals, like purple, pink, blue, green, etc.

8. Next, pour the brown resin on the outermost part along the margin. Next, pour the reddish-yellow mixture into the middle. Then, pour the pink or purple resin into the innermost area.

9. Add glitter and mica flakes from the top. Mix them with the ice cream sticks. Now, let it sit for 24 to 48 hours. The most important thing is, while setting, poke the middle purple part with ice cream sticks.

10. This will give it a crystal texture. Poke it once it becomes semi-dry so that the texture remains intact. Once the geode sets, remove it from the mold. You can now keep it in your room as a decoration. It will give a cool, sci-fi look to any room.

Why Epoxy Resins Are The Best –

What is the best epoxy resin for casting and how to use it

Epoxy resins are widely used for art and craft. They are perfect for casting as they have a clear, crystalline surface. You can see the objects you have cast clearly through them, whether they are alphabets, decorations, glitter, dried flowers, leaves, insects, souvenirs, etc.

When mixed with colors, epoxy resin molds can look like gemstones. Also, they come in different types and formulas. Compared to other formulas, they dry quickly. You have to set them for 24 hours. The process of forming the resin is called ‘curing.’

Epoxy resins also have a good texture. They do not create any bubbles. You have to add the objects you want to cast as soon as you pour them into the molds for the setting.

Who Should Buy This?

If you want to start your own business making decorations, art, or jewelry, you should consider buying this product. You will need epoxy resin, hardener, decorations, a few tools, and molds.

Also, if you are a creative person, you should buy epoxy resin. This is an enjoyable task, and you will have fun making different types of showpieces. You can give your friends the items you make.

You will find many DIY ideas in YouTube videos. You will be able to see exactly how to use the products by watching the videos. Do your research well before starting the work. You can also buy this in other hardware-related businesses, such as giving coatings to furniture, walls, etc.

You can also use this to make models, toys, sculptures, etc. Miniature modeling is a growing industry, and resins are very useful for it. This will also be the best option if you are an architect and want to make building models.

Things To Consider –

Which is best epoxy resin for casting and how to use the resin for casting things

1. Quantity –

It would be best to calculate how much resin you will need for your project. If you purchase more than required, your money will be wasted. The quantity of the product is written on the container.

Check it thoroughly before buying the product. Remember that it is already activated once you add the resin to the hardening agent. It will start curing, and you will have to use it up quickly. You cannot keep it for later use.

So, if you mix more products than needed, they will eventually get wasted. Make up your mind well before using the products. Calculate how much product will be made, how much you will need, the task at hand, how big or thick the object will be formed, etc.

2. Safety –

Take all the precautions required while using casting resins. Whether you are using it to make jewelry or for any other purpose, you need to take care of yourself. Safety plays a crucial role in this task.

Epoxy resins heat up once you make the mixture.  The chemical reaction between the resin and the hardening agent produces heat. So, you should always wear gloves while making anything with the resin.

Gloves will also protect you from any other chemical or allergic reactions. The safety of your project is also essential. Otherwise, all your efforts will be useless. You do not want your work to get damaged. Keep an eye on the object while it is getting set.

3. Quality –

Quality is another thing that you need to consider before buying the resin. It will help if you read the product reviews before buying it. Go for a well-known brand. Also, check the expiry date of the product.

Make sure that the product is new. If it is old or expired, you will not be able to use it. This is especially true in this case. If the formula is old, it will not mix well. It will either be too watery or too thick.

Once you put it for curing, it may not be appropriately set. The product might also have cracks in between. So, it might break easily. Or it will not get cured at all and remain in a semi-liquid state.

FAQs –

Are Epoxy Resins Waterproof?

Yes, epoxy resins are waterproof. When you use them for casting, they can be removed from the mold once the object solidifies. Once it is removed, it is ready to be used. It will not get damaged due to water or heat.

How Long Do Resin Showpieces Last?

Resin showpieces and decorations last for a really long time. One of the main advantages of resin products is that they are good in quality.

What is Epoxy Resin Used For?

Epoxy resins are used for many purposes. It is mainly used to make adhesives or glues, paints, decorations, coating, or jewelry. When used as a coating, it provides a glossy finish to any product.

Conclusion –

Epoxy resins are the best option for casting. They are not very expensive and are one of the best formulas for making crystalline art objects. Follow the instructions properly while making the objects.

Please take all the safety precautions before and after making them. You can use sandpaper to soften the edges and give finishing to your art. You can also add extra gloss to your art by applying a clear coating on the surface.