How to Choose the Right Resin for Your First Project Without Getting Overwhelmed

How to Choose the Right Resin for Your First Project Without Getting Overwhelmed

Starting resin art can feel confusing.
Epoxy? UV? Casting resin?
If you're staring at bottles online wondering what to buy, you're not alone.

Each resin type has different strengths, dry times, and ideal uses.
And choosing the wrong one could leave you frustrated—or worse, ruin your keepsake.

In this guide, I’ll break down the key differences, help you match resin to your project, and share beginner-friendly tips.
You’ll walk away knowing exactly what to look for when buying resin for the first time.

Let’s keep it simple, clear, and mistake-free.

Understanding the 3 Main Types of Resin

Before you can choose the right resin, you need to understand what your options are.

There are three main types of resin used in craft and art projects:

• Epoxy Resin

• Casting Resin

• UV Resin

Each one behaves differently.
They vary in how they mix, cure, handle bubbles, and even how thick you can pour them.
Knowing what makes each unique will help you avoid headaches and wasted supplies.

Let’s go over each one quickly.

Epoxy Resin

Epoxy is the most common resin beginners start with.

It usually cures in 24–72 hours and is great for:

• Coasters

• Tabletops

• Thin layers with decorative items

Pros:

• Easy to measure and mix (usually 1:1 ratio)

• Less prone to bubbles in shallow pours

• Durable, glossy finish

Cons:

• Not ideal for deep molds

• Can yellow with sun exposure over time

Best For: Flat or thin-layer projects like trays, flower frames, and jewelry bases.

Casting Resin

Casting resin is designed for deeper pours—ideal when embedding large or 3D items for example, flowers.

Pros:

• Excellent clarity for thicker molds

• Longer working time (which means fewer bubbles)

• Perfect for flower preservation

Cons:

• Slower cure (may take up to 72 hours)

• Must be poured in layers if too deep

Best For: Wedding flower keepsakes, blocks, and deep mold projects.

UV Resin

UV resin cures instantly under a UV lamp or sunlight.
It’s ready in minutes, but has a few limitations.

Pros:

• No mixing required

• Fast cure time

• Good for small touch-ups

Cons:

• Only works in thin layers

• Can shrink or crack if overused

• Expensive for large projects

Best For: Tiny projects like rings, bezels, or sealing dried flowers on jewelry.

What Kind of Project Are You Making?

Choosing the right resin starts with knowing your goal.
Ask yourself:

• Will it be flat or deep?

• Will you embed flowers or other objects?

• Is fast curing important?

Matching resin to your project avoids bubbles, cracks, and frustration.

Resin Features to Compare Before Buying

Not all resins are created equal.
Here are features to check on the label:

• Mixing ratio: Easier when it's 1:1

• Working time: More time = less stress

• Bubble release: Especially for beginners

• Cure time: Plan your schedule around the curing time, especially when layering. (More on that in a future post)

• Clarity: Essential for keepsakes, you want a crystal clear finish

• Yellowing resistance: Look for UV-stabilized formulas

Tip: Always read real user reviews.
See if others used it for a project like yours.

Common Mistakes Beginners Make When Choosing Resin

1. Choosing the wrong resin for their project
   E.g., using epoxy for a deep mold leads to overheating.

2. Not checking cure time
   Many beginners want results fast—but rushing the process can ruin your piece.

3. Ignoring temperature needs
   Resin cures best in warm, dry spaces. Cold slows it down, hot causes bubbles.

4. Skipping safety gear
   Gloves and ventilation are a must—even with “low odor” types.

5. Not checking the shelf life
   Expired resin won’t cure properly. Don’t use old leftovers.

My Top Resin Picks for Beginners

For those making flower keepsakes or small / flat décor items, here are my go-to beginner resins:

💡 Epoxy Resin Recommendation

Promise Table Top Epoxy Resin - Easy to use, low odor, minimal yellowing, food safe
Recommended for total beginners - Cheaper than most epoxy resins, good to start with
Use for: Coasters, flat flower pieces, small trays etc.

💡 Casting Resin Recommendation

Superclear Liquid Glass Deep Pour – Great clarity, long working time
Use for: River tables, thick Blocks, floral domes, 3D keepsakes etc.

💡 UV Resin Recommendation

Let's Resin UV Resin – Ready to use, cures fast with UV light
Use for: Jewelry making, touch-ups, decorating items, thin flower pendants

Final Tips to Feel Confident Choosing Your First Resin

• Start small: Test with simple molds before diving into larger projects.

• Read instructions: Every resin brand behaves slightly differently.

• Store properly: Keep resin cool, dry, and sealed to extend shelf life.

• Don’t mix brands: Stick to the same brand for both resin and hardener.

• Join online groups: Learn from others’ questions and mistakes.

Choosing the right resin doesn’t need to be stressful.
Take your time, match your resin to your project, and follow directions.
Your first piece can be beautiful—and bubble-free.

Happy Resining!
Chana xoxo