Learning how to use epoxy resin is simple, especially if you use a 1:1 epoxy crafting resin. This beginner-friendly formula uses equal parts resin and hardener, making it easy to measure and mix the components correctly.
With the right supplies and a few basic techniques, epoxy resin crafting can be an affordable way to create stunning custom products.
Crafters use epoxy resin to make a variety of personalized items, from coating and decorating stainless steel tumblers to molding epoxy jewelry.
The key to a successful epoxy resin project is learning the best practices for mixing and applying this two-part material. Proper measuring, thorough mixing, controlled pouring, and the right curing conditions will help you produce a smooth, durable finish, regardless of the crafts you intend to make.
This guide explains how to use epoxy resin for beginners, including choosing the right resin, essential tools and tips for mixing, and what beginner crafts you can create.
What Is Epoxy Resin?
Epoxy resin is a two-component material composed of a liquid resin and a hardener.
When the two parts are combined in the correct ratio, they undergo a chemical reaction that causes the resin mixture to cure into a hard, solid plastic.
While epoxy resin is commonly used in table and floor coatings, it is also perfect for DIY crafts and resin art. It can create a smooth, glossy finish while protecting surfaces with its hard exterior.
The two main types of epoxy resin used in crafting are coating epoxy and casting resin, also called "deep-pour resin"
Coating epoxy is designed to spread thinly across a surface, while casting resin is better suited for projects that involve molds, such as jewelry making.
Now that you understand these basics, it's time to gather the materials you'll need for getting started. The right supplies will empower you to create a variety of fun and eye-catching custom projects.
What You Need for Epoxy Resin Projects
The supplies that beginners need for epoxy resin projects depend on the specific epoxy craft.
For that reason, we will start by sharing the necessities for mixing and pouring epoxy, then move on to more project-specific supplies.
Resin and Mixing Supplies
Accurate measuring and thorough mixing are essential when working with epoxy resin. These basic supplies make it easier to prepare the resin and hardener while keeping your workspace clean.
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Epoxy Resin and Hardener: Choose coating epoxy for thin-surface applications or casting epoxy for molds and deeper pours. A 1:1 epoxy crafting resin can be a convenient option for simple beginner projects.
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Measuring Cups: Use these to measure the resin and hardener accurately according to the manufacturer's recommended ratio. Choose disposable or reusable cups made from silicone or polypropylene.
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Silicone Cups: Reusable silicone cups make it easier to mix resin and remove cured leftovers after a project.
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Mixing Sticks: Use these to combine the resin and hardener thoroughly while scraping the sides and bottom of the cup.
- Silicone Mat: Place a silicone mat under your project to protect the workspace from spills and make cured resin easier to remove.
In addition to these essential supplies, you will need tools for pouring, shaping, and finishing epoxy projects.
Tools for Pouring and Finishing
These tools help you apply epoxy more precisely and address common issues during the pouring and curing process.
Having them on hand can make it easier to control the resin and achieve a clean finish.
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Toothpicks: Use toothpicks to move resin into small areas, arrange decorative materials, and pop surface bubbles.
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Heat Gun: You'll pass a heat gun lightly over the resin surface to help release air bubbles.
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Bubble Level: This device helps ensure your work surface is level before pouring, so the resin cures evenly.
- Painter's Tape: Use painter's tape to protect surfaces and create clean edges around certain resin projects.
With these tools ready, the next step is gathering the appropriate safety supplies before working with epoxy.
Safety Supplies
Proper safety equipment helps reduce the risk of skin and eye contact with uncured epoxy during resin projects.
Keep these supplies available whenever you measure, mix, or pour resin.
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Nitrile Gloves: Wear gloves when handling liquid resin to prevent uncured epoxy from touching your skin.
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Safety Goggles: Use goggles to protect your eyes from resin splashes during measuring, mixing, and pouring.
- Respirator Mask: Use a properly rated respirator if you're not working in a well-ventilated area.
In addition to wearing protective equipment, it's essential that you follow the epoxy resin manufacturer's safety instructions. Also, work in a well-ventilated area when possible, especially if you don't have a respirator mask.
Optional Decorative Materials
You can make your epoxy resin projects even more special by adding a variety of materials for more color and texture.
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Pigments: Add compatible pigments to change the color of your resin mixture.
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Glitter: Mix glitter into resin or sprinkle it into a project for decorative effects.
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Alcohol Ink: Add compatible alcohol ink in small amounts to create color variations and patterns.
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Dried Flowers: Embed dried flowers in suitable resin projects for decorative designs.
- Eye Shadow: Small amounts of powdered eye shadow can add color to resin projects.
If you want to work with new decorative materials, consider testing them first. Use these additions in small amounts of resin before moving on to a larger project that involves more resin.
Some decorative elements can affect curing, clarity, or the final appearance of the resin piece.
Additional Supplies for Beginner Resin Projects
The exact supplies you'll need for your first epoxy resin project will depend on what you want to create or decorate.
Here are a few common supplies to have on hand for beginner-friendly projects:
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Stainless Steel Tumblers: Use suitable stainless steel tumblers as a surface to create eye-catching, durable custom tumblers. The Stainless Depot Company features stainless steel tumblers designed for epoxy crafting.
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Silicone Molds: Crafters use silicone molds for various projects involving resin casting, including coasters, jewelry, bookmarks, and paperweights.
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Jewelry Findings: Combine small molds with jewelry findings to make earrings, pendants, and other decorative pieces.
- Photo Frames: You can decorate a flat wooden photo frame with glitter, dried flowers, and other dry decorative elements before applying epoxy.
The supplies you'll need can vary depending on whether you're coating a tumbler, filling a mold, or creating another resin craft.
However, regardless of the project, you need to know how to mix and apply the resin to your crafts.
How to Use Epoxy Resin for Beginners Step by Step?
Using epoxy resin for your crafting projects starts with accurate measuring and thorough mixing. In this section, we will explain how to prepare, mix, and apply epoxy resin step by step.
#1. Prepare Your Workspace
Set up a clean, dedicated workspace away from anything that could contaminate the resin.
Work in a well-ventilated area with open windows when possible, and keep the room between 70°F and 80°F for proper curing.
Before you begin measuring, place a silicone mat or other protective covering on your work surface.
You should also use a bubble level to ensure your workstation is level before mixing and pouring. An uneven surface can cause the resin to pool or cure at an angle, resulting in an uneven finish or an improperly formed piece.
#2. Measure the Resin and Hardener
Measure the resin and hardener separately according to the manufacturer's specified ratio.
It's common for epoxy resins to have a beginner-friendly 1:1 ratio, meaning equal parts resin and hardener.
That said, never assume that the epoxy features this ratio. Check the ratio on the bottle before getting started with measuring.
Accurate measurements are essential because too much or too little of either component can prevent the resin mixture from curing correctly.
#3. Combine the Resin and Hardener
Pour the measured resin and hardener into a clean silicone cup or other suitable mixing container. This cup needs to be spotless to prevent contaminants from affecting your finished piece or coating.
#4. Mix for the Recommended Time
Use a clean mixing stick to combine the two components in your cup or container. Mix thoroughly but slowly to reduce the amount of air trapped within the resin.
Additionally, scrape the sides and bottom of the container as you stir to ensure the resin fully blends.
Continue mixing the resin for the full amount of time specified by the manufacturer.
For some 1:1 formulas, this may be around 3 to 5 minutes, but it can vary by the manufacturer.
Once you're done mixing, the resin should be completely combined without visible streaks.
Rushing this step can leave areas with excess resin or hardener that remain soft or sticky after curing.
#5. Add Color or Decorative Materials (optional)
You can add compatible pigments, glitter, alcohol ink, or other decorative materials after the resin and hardener have been thoroughly combined.
Start with a few drops of colorant and add more gradually until you're satisfied.
#6. Let the Resin Mixture Rest (if applicable)
Some epoxy resins require you to let them sit for a few minutes before pouring them. Check your manufacturer's instructions to see if this applies to your specific resin mix.
#7. Pour the Resin
Pour resin slowly into your prepared silicone mold or across the surface of your project. Use a toothpick to guide the resin into small areas and remove any visible bubbles.
Do not pour layers thicker than 0.25 to 0.5 inches unless the specific product is designed for a deeper pour. Thick layers can generate excessive heat during the curing reaction, and large batches can become dangerously hot.
#8. Remove Surface Bubbles
Pass a heat gun lightly over the surface to help release bubbles.
A few light passes with heat are generally more effective than holding the heat source in one place. Also, holding the heat in place for too long can damage the resin or cause it to overheat.
You may also use a heat torch, but apply heat quickly and carefully to avoid scorching the resin.
Additionally, you can use a toothpick to pop individual bubbles.
#9. Allow the Resin to Cure
Place the project on a level surface where it will not be disturbed. You should also cover the curing project to protect it from dust and debris.
Epoxy resin often takes 24 hours to cure, but the exact time depends on the formula, temperature, and pour depth. For that reason, always follow your manufacturer's instructions.
Wait until the resin has fully cured before removing it from a mold or handling the finished piece.
Following these steps can help you achieve more consistent results when working with epoxy resin as a beginner.
Accurate measuring, thorough mixing, careful pouring, and proper curing are essential for creating smooth, fully cured resin pieces.
Next, we'll share practical epoxy tips for beginner crafters, including ways to reduce bubbles and avoid common mistakes.
Beginner Epoxy Resin Tips for the Best Results
Working with epoxy resin gets easier with practice, and a few basic habits can protect you and help prevent common curing issues.
Keep these tips in mind as you prepare, mix, pour, and cure your resin projects:
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Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Open windows or use appropriate ventilation when working with epoxy resin. You might also use a respirator mask to protect yourself.
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Keep Epoxy Resin Away From Children and Pets: Store resin and hardener where children and pets cannot access them, and keep them away from your workspace while you work.
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Protect Your Skin and Eyes: Wear nitrile gloves and safety goggles when measuring, mixing, and pouring resin. Avoid direct contact with uncured epoxy.
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Keep Your Workspace Clean and Level: Use a dedicated workspace free of dust and other contaminants. A bubble level can help ensure resin cures evenly across the project.
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Measure Accurately: Use the exact resin-to-hardener ratio listed by the manufacturer. Many beginner formulas use a 1:1 ratio, but this is not true for every epoxy.
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Mix Slowly and Thoroughly: Stir for the full time recommended by the manufacturer to prevent soft or sticky areas in the finished piece.
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Avoid Oversized Batches: Epoxy resin generates heat during its chemical reaction. Large batches and overly thick pours can become dangerously hot, so start with smaller amounts.
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Follow the Recommended Pour Depth: Do not pour resin deeper than the product's specifications allow. A depth of about 0.25 to 0.5 inches is common for many formulas, while casting resin projects often use thicker pours.
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Remove Bubbles Carefully: A quick pass with a heat gun or torch can release surface bubbles, while a toothpick works well for individual bubbles.
- Add Color and Decorations Gradually: Pigments, glitter, alcohol ink, dried flowers, and other materials can change how resin cures. Test unfamiliar additives in a small amount of resin before using them on a larger project.
- Keep the Curing Area Warm: Epoxy generally cures best in a room around 70°F to 80°F. Keep the project level and undisturbed while it cures.
- Cover Projects While They Cure: Place a clean cover over curing resin to protect it from dust and debris. Make sure the cover does not touch the wet surface.
- Allow Enough Curing Time: Do not remove resin pieces from molds or handle finished projects until the manufacturer's recommended cure time has passed.
Following these basic practices can help you avoid common problems and achieve more consistent results.
If a project does not turn out as expected, check your measurements, mixing time, temperature, and pour depth before trying again.
Now that you know how to get started with epoxy crafting and essential tips, let's explore a few crafts perfect for beginners.
Epoxy Resin Projects for Beginners
You can use epoxy resin to create a wide range of decorative and functional crafts, making it a highly versatile material for beginners.
Each project below uses basic resin techniques while giving you a chance to try different materials, shapes, and decorative options.
Epoxy Tumblers and Drinkware
Epoxy tumblers are a popular beginner project that involves customizing stainless steel drinkware with glitter, pigments, and other decorative elements. You can explore a variety of fun, creative cup designs with our guide on Epoxy Tumbler Ideas.
The best epoxy tumblers start with quality stainless steel blanks that provide a durable surface for customization.
Fortunately, The Stainless Depot Company offers affordable, high-quality stainless steel tumblers for epoxy, each featuring long-lasting insulation and BPA-free components.
Once you've chosen a tumbler that's right for you, learning how to make an epoxy tumbler is straightforward:
What You Need: Epoxy resin, hardener, mixing cups, mixing sticks, gloves, a tumbler turner, and decorations such as glitter or pigments.
Basic Steps:
- Clean and prepare the tumbler.
- Measure the resin and hardener according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Mix the resin and hardener.
- Place the tumbler on the turner.
- Add your decorations.
- Apply the epoxy.
- Remove bubbles.
- Allow the epoxy to fully cure.
You can learn more detailed steps for this process with our guide, "How to Epoxy a Tumbler."
Resin Coasters
Resin coasters are a simple beginner project that lets you practice measuring, mixing, pouring, and removing bubbles without using a large amount of epoxy.
Silicone coaster molds come in various shapes and sizes, giving you plenty of options for creating different designs.
These projects are also a good opportunity to practice working with decorative materials before moving on to larger resin crafts. You can add compatible pigments, glitter, or other small decorations to the resin before pouring it into the mold.
What You Need: Epoxy resin, hardener, silicone coaster mold, mixing cups, mixing sticks, and compatible pigments or decorative elements.
Basic Steps:
- Prepare your workspace and coaster mold.
- Measure the resin and hardener according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Mix the resin and hardener thoroughly.
- Add your chosen color or decorative materials.
- Pour the resin into the coaster mold.
- Remove any visible surface bubbles.
- Allow the coaster to fully cure before removing it from the mold.
Starting with a small project like a coaster can help you get comfortable with the resin mixing and pouring process.
Resin Jewelry
Resin jewelry is a great place to start when working with molds because it often involves only a small amount of epoxy.
Small silicone jewelry molds are available in many shapes and designs, making it easy to create a variety of pieces while practicing basic resin techniques.
Some common resin jewelry pieces include earrings, pendants, rings, and bracelets.
What You Need: Epoxy resin, hardener, small silicone jewelry molds, mixing cups, mixing sticks, gloves, toothpicks, and decorative materials.
Basic Steps:
- Prepare your workspace and silicone molds.
- Measure the resin and hardener according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Mix the resin and hardener thoroughly.
- Add your chosen color or decorative materials.
- Pour the resin into the jewelry molds.
- Use a toothpick to pop individual surface bubbles.
- Allow the pieces to fully cure before removing them from the molds.
These small projects can help beginners practice basic resin techniques while creating wearable pieces, perfect for gifting or selling.
Resin Bookmarks
Resin bookmarks are thin, lightweight projects that give beginners a simple way to practice using silicone molds while expressing their creativity.
Bookmark molds come in various shapes, such as rectangles, animals, and geometric patterns, with some designs featuring built-in holes for adding a tassel or other accessory.
You can also get creative by mixing different resin colors to create layered, swirled, or multicolor designs. Their flat shape makes it easier to see how the resin spreads and cures.
What You Need: Bookmark mold, epoxy resin, hardener, mixing cups, mixing sticks, gloves, and compatible pigments, glitter, or other small embellishments.
Basic Steps:
- Prepare your workspace and bookmark mold.
- Measure the resin and hardener according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Mix the resin and hardener thoroughly.
- Divide the resin into separate cups if using multiple colors.
- Add your chosen colors or decorative materials.
- Pour the resin into the mold, combining colors as desired.
- Remove visible surface bubbles.
- Allow the resin to fully cure before removing it from the mold.
Resin bookmarks are a practical beginner project that lets you practice basic molding techniques while creating personalized designs.
Personalized Photo Frames
Epoxy resin can add color, texture, and a glossy finish to a flat wooden photo frame. You can use options such as glitter, mica powder, foil flakes, small charms, or dried flowers to make your favorite photos even more special.
When decorating wooden photo frames with epoxy, you can use painter's tape to protect sections of the frame that you don't want to decorate.
What You Need: Flat wooden photo frame, epoxy resin, hardener, mixing cups, mixing sticks, gloves, painter's tape, and compatible additions such as glitter, mica powder, foil flakes, or dried flowers.
Basic Steps:
- Clean and prepare the photo frame.
- Use painter's tape to cover areas that should remain free of resin.
- Measure the resin and hardener according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Mix the epoxy thoroughly.
- Add your chosen colors or decorations.
- Apply a thin layer of resin to the frame.
- Remove any visible surface bubbles.
- Place the frame on a level surface and allow it to fully cure.
The finished frame can make an excellent personalized gift or a custom piece for your home.
Resin Paperweights
Resin paperweights are functional epoxy projects that give beginners a chance to work with molds and deeper pours.
There are many different paperweight silicone molds in a variety of shapes and styles, including cubes, pyramids, and spheres, with each shape creating a different look as light passes through the cured resin.
These creative paperweights are also a great way to preserve dried flowers from weddings or memorials, or hold items like small photos or keepsakes.
What You Need: Casting resin, paperweight silicone mold, mixing cups, mixing sticks, gloves, compatible pigments or glitter, and optional items such as dried flowers, gold flakes, photos, or small keepsakes.
Basic Steps:
- Prepare your workspace and silicone mold.
- Measure the resin and hardener according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Mix the resin and hardener thoroughly.
- Add color or other chosen additions.
- Pour the resin into the mold without exceeding the product's recommended pour depth.
- Arrange any flowers, photos, or keepsakes as needed.
- Remove visible surface bubbles.
- Allow the resin to fully cure before removing the paperweight from the mold.
Because paperweights can require a deeper pour than smaller resin crafts, choose a casting resin designed for the depth of your mold and follow its specific curing instructions.
Whether you want to customize a tumbler, create a small molded piece, or make a personalized gift, you have plenty of options to explore as you craft with epoxy resin.
Gather your supplies and start creating your first epoxy resin project today.
Epoxy Resin for Beginners FAQs
Is Epoxy Resin Good for Beginners?
Epoxy resin can be a good choice for beginner crafters because it is relatively easy to measure, mix, and pour to create protective finishes. You can also use casting resin to create small crafts.
What Are Common Epoxy Resin Mistakes?
Common epoxy resin mistakes include using the wrong resin-to-hardener ratio, mixing too quickly, and curing the project in an unsuitable environment. Beginners should also avoid rushing the curing process and exposing wet resin to dust or debris.
What Is the Best Epoxy Resin for Beginners?
The best epoxy resin for beginners depends on the type of project, but a 1:1 epoxy designed for crafts can be a convenient starting point. Those looking for the best epoxy for tumblers can explore the wide selection at The Stainless Depot Company.
How Do You Clean Epoxy Resin?
Clean uncured epoxy resin as soon as possible by wiping away the excess with a paper towel, then using denatured alcohol or 90% or higher isopropyl alcohol to remove the remaining residue. For cured epoxy, use a plastic scraper, gentle heat, or light sanding to remove it. Learn more detailed instructions in our guide "How to Clean Epoxy Resin."
Order Tumblers and Epoxy Resin for Beginners Today
Epoxy resin is highly practical for creating a variety of crafts, and it's a great way to get started with tumbler crafting.
Tumbler crafting is a rewarding hobby that can empower you to make personalized drinkware for yourself or create thoughtful gifts.
You can also produce custom tumblers to sell and even start a small business with relatively low startup costs. Unique tumblers are always in demand, and you can craft truly breathtaking custom pieces using epoxy.
If you're interested in crafting professional-looking custom tumblers, you can find everything you need at The Stainless Depot Company.
We feature helpful epoxy kits that include 1:1 epoxy resin and four free 20-oz skinny tumblers, perfect for getting you started. Plus, you can shop for highly affordable stainless steel blanks that provide a great surface for your epoxy crafting.
Explore our selection today and start creating stunning one-of-a-kind drinkware.
