Choosing The Right Epoxy Resin Kit
Do you have trouble deciding which resin kit to use?
With so many types of resin available from Just Resin. You may not know where to begin.
We will guide you through the resin kit selection process.
Helping you choose the perfect resin epoxy.
How To Choose A Resin Kit?
First you must consider the purpose of your project.
Are you creating a piece of art?
Do you need a strong and durable resin for functional items such as coasters or tabletops?
Resin kits from Just Resin have unique properties that make them suitable for specific applications.
Think about the size and scope of your project.
Some resin art kits are better suited for larger projects due to their longer curing times. While other resin art kits may be more practical for smaller pieces that require a faster cure time.
Another factor to consider is if you want a clear or coloured finish.
Just Resin offers both transparent pigments and opaque pigments. That can be added to the clear resin to achieve different effects. This allows for endless customisation options depending on your desired outcome.
Consider the level of experience you have working with epoxy. Choosing a beginner friendly kit. With all necessary materials and detailed instructions. This maybe the best way to begin your resin journey.
Budget may play a role in your epoxy resin kit decision making process. Kits vary in price depending on the resin art kit size and features. Just Resin offers resin kits at different price points. So you will find one that fits within your budget without compromising on quality. Our goal is to make the process of creating with resin accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Regardless of their skill level or financial constraints.
So if you're a seasoned resin artist or beginner. Just Resin has everything you need to bring your artistic vision to life.
Find The Best Resin Epoxy Kits for Artists
At Just Resin, we offer a range of resin kits to suit all your needs. Our selection includes epoxy resins, coating resins, casting resins, eco resins and UV resins. Available in various consistencies and curing times. Selecting the right resin for your project can be a daunting task. Especially if you are new to resin art. The key is to research and experiment with different kits before making a decision. Take into account. The surface or mould that will come in contact with the resin. We recommend reviewing all available kits before settling on one.
Resin Kits In All Sizes
Just Resin offers a variety of resin kits. Ranging in formulations and sizes to suit your specific needs. With Australia wide shipping available. You can easily get your hands on one of our 1L to 40L resin kits. These kits are perfect to achieve stunning, glossy finishes. They include all necessary mixing components. The resin and hardener. Along with detailed instructions for effortless use.
Our most popular kit is the two part epoxy. Which consists of equal parts of resin and hardener. Mixed together to create a clear glossy finish. This type of resin is commonly used for coating and sealing artwork. Providing both durability and an enhanced colour and texture.
We offer specialised kits for coating resins. Protecting surfaces from wear and tear while providing a wet, high gloss finish.
For those interested in creating strong and durable art pieces. Our resin casting kits are ideal. We also have thin epoxy kits for delicate applications. And thicker resins for heavier projects.
If you're working on quick projects or multi-layer pours. Faster curing resins are preffered. While slow curing resins. Allow for more time to work with the material. And pour deeper layers.
Some of our unique kits like the ocean resin kit can even produce stunning effects like that of the ocean's waves. If you're a beginner or an experienced crafter. Our resin kits offer endless possibilities for creating one-of-a-kind pieces. That will last for years to come.
Each Resin Kit Is Different
Each type of kit has its own unique set of properties and characteristics.
What resin to use can be hard decision. There are many types of art resins online from Just Resin. And they range from coating resin to casting resin. Thick and thin consistency. Fast and slow pour. Ideal to create cells or no cells. Soft and hard. And everything in between.
Most epoxy kits will be perfect for one project and not for others.
For example. Products that are great for topcoats are thick, very slow curing. But will not create cells and unique effects. Coating resin systems. Are ideal for topcoats such as bench tops. Wall art and even cheese resin boards. Deeper casting resin are ideal for river tables. But take weeks to cure. At Just Resin we have designed our systems to be very universal. Just Resin offers kits that are ideal for topcoats. That are fast curing and will create amazing cells and unique effects.
There are many factors to consider when choosing the best resin art epoxy.
Considering the purpose of your project. And what you want to achieve with resin is important.
For coating projects. You will need a thicker and more viscous resin. That can create unique effects and provide a protective layer over your object.
On the other hand. Casting projects require a thinner viscosity resin. That can flow easily into moulds and harden into a durable final product. Think about the curing time and temperature requirements for different types of resin art epoxy kits. Some may cure faster or require specific temperatures for optimal results. It's important to carefully follow instructions. Use any necessary safety precautions when working with these chemicals. You must also decide if you want clear epoxy resin or coloured resin. Clear resins are great for preserving objects without altering their appearance. While coloured resins like black resin. Allow for more creative possibilities in terms of design. Coating resin systems are a good place to start if you're new to art resin epoxy. Once you have some experience with coating epoxy, you can try out casting objects.
Take a look at some of our projects using art resin epoxy in the Learn section. Better understand how you can use art resin. And don't forget. Practice and experiment with different techniques. Until you find what works best for you.
Please check our Characteristic Guide to help you choose what resin to use.
The Best Top Coat For Resin Art Is DiamondCote
Introducing DiamondCote, our ultimate epoxy kit. It boasts the fastest curing time among our premium coating options. Once cured, it is also the most durable. Our entire range of premium resin products have a convenient 1:1 ratio, making measuring a breeze. This allows for stunning effects to be created. Such as cells and sea foam. No matter the weather conditions. This kit delivers exceptional results. In fact, it has the best air release out of all our resin systems. Keep in mind that our 1:1 ratio systems are designed specifically for artistry purposes. As epoxy kits typically have a 2:1 ratio, we have simplified the mixing process for the artist's convenience.
For Ocean Resin Art, Use OceanCote
OceanCote, our thickest viscosity system. Pours perfectly in all weather conditions. Including warmer and humid climates where it thrives. As the ambient temperature rises. The resin's viscosity decreases and it cures faster. With a pot life of up to 80 minutes and a high level of viscosity. OceanCote allows for ample time to work with the resin before it thickens. In fact, some artists prefer to wait for their resin to thicken. By mixing parts A and B then waiting 20-30 minutes for the curing process to begin. This gradual thickening creates unique ocean effects such as sea foam and cells. With its already high viscosity. This ocean resin kit provides a hassle-free experience that effortlessly produces professional-looking results.
Resin Costs Can Be Reduced With ArtCote
ArtCote, a hybrid of DiamondCote and OceanCote. This provides similar results to OceanCote. But with a quicker curing time. While OceanCote has a pot life of 70-80 minutes. ArtCote only takes 50-70 minutes. This fast curing time means less movement and runoff during application. Additionally, its thicker system also reduces runoff in the project. Plus, as compared to other resins in our range. ArtCote is a more budget-friendly option. However, it may not perform as well in hotter and humid conditions.
Our Thinnest Art Resin
Our lowest viscosity pour resin. Art Resin, has a mixing ratio of 2:1 by volume. It performs well in colder weather. Has excellent movement. Eliminating the need for heat guns or butane torches. As our most affordable artistry system. It's perfect for large pours. In-between layers, base coats, and creating unique effects. It is also budget-friendly. With its low viscosity. Art Resin can achieve a very unique effect. This sets it apart from other resins. Its high gloss finish and versatility make it suitable for a variety of projects.
Australian Made Water Based Eco Resin Kit
ARC Water Based Resin, also known as Acrylic Resin Composite. Is an eco friendly casting resin manufactured by Just Resin. This versatile and environmentally friendly material has become increasingly popular. Its composition consists of two components. A mineral powder base and a water-based acrylic liquid. Which acts as a binder to effectively combine all the elements. Unlike traditional water curing methods that can result in weaker finished products. Using acrylic resin significantly increases strength. This opaque white to off-white material with a semi-gloss or gloss finish. Is typically made from gypsum, plaster or plaster of Paris. It should not be confused with resin epoxy. The possibilities for creating with acrylic resin are endless and simple. Ranging from coasters and trays to sculptures and jewellery. In comparison to Jesmonite products. Which are more commonly used in this field. ARC proudly stands as an Australian-made product. Available for shipping Australia-wide in five convenient kit sizes: 1.75kg, 3.5kg, 7kg, 14kg, and 28kg.
ArtCast Resin Casting Kits
ArtCast Slow and Fast have a low viscosity. Making them unsuitable for coating. Attempting to coat with these resins will result in it running off. However, the dam method can asist. The 3:1 ratio of ArtCast Slow and 5:1 ratio of ArtCast Fast are industrial strength. With a shore D of 86-90. In fact, ArtCast is known to be one of the strongest resin casting kits available on the market, capable even of breaking concrete when used as a hammer. Due to its quick curing speed. ArtCast Fast is best suited for small casts up to 200mls maximum. Adding more volume can lead to unwanted bubbles, discoloration, and cracks. In comparison, ArtCast Slow can handle just under 1 litre. For deep pours ranging from 3 litres to 100 litres or more. Our RiverPour kit is ideal with its lengthy curing time of 8-12 hours.
Riverpour Kit For Deep Resin Pouring
RiverPour is the ultimate solution for your deep pour needs. This specially crafted kit boasts a low viscosity. Making it effortless to create large castings with consistently outstanding results. If you're working on a medium sized resin table. Tackling a sizable project. RiverPour is known as one of the preferred kits to use. One standout characteristic of this product. Is its remarkably low exothermic reaction. Guaranteeing minimal heat generation during extensive pours. And ensuring the integrity of your project till completion. With its superior finish and user-friendly features. RiverPour will undoubtedly become your go-to choice for deep pour projects.
Fast Cure UV Resin Kit
UV Resin, catering to the needs of artists, crafters, and DIY enthusiasts. Those who desire long-lasting and high quality resin projects. With love UV resin. The UV resin kit is a specialised solution. A unique type of resin. That swiftly cures under ultraviolet light. This kit creates beautiful resin pieces in mere minutes. As opposed to traditional resins. That can take hours or even days to cure. From exquisite jewellery pieces. To home decor items, keychains, coasters, and more. The possibilities are endless with this UV resin kit. One of its notable benefits is its versatility. It can be applied effortlessly on various surfaces. Such as wood, metal, or plastic without any complications.
Polyurethane Coating Resin
WaterCote Polyurethane Resin. This a single-part resin. Creates a scratch-resistant gloss. That is also water-resistant. Its versatile application extends to. Sealing timber, wall art, mixed media art, and furniture. What's more, WaterCote is safe to use in food applications. Not only does it have a low odour. But it also dries quickly without the hassle of mixing ratios. Thanks to its high solids content. This clear resin ensures a flawless finish on various surfaces. Like wood, metal, plastic, and glass. And unlike other finishes. WaterCote's quick build avoids leaving a blue-cast on dark wood. For all your clear coating needs. Choose the WaterCote kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Epoxy Resin?
Epoxy resin is a type of synthetic polymer. Created through the reaction of two main components. An epoxy resin and a Curing agent. There are many industries in which this versatile material can be applied. Including construction, aerospace, marine, automotive, and art. In recent years. There has been a rise in the use of epoxy resins in artistic creations. Manly due to its ability to form clear castings with minimal air bubbles. Artists uses include. Creating unique jewellery pieces. Or even larger sculptures. From clear gloss coatings to vibrant pigmented hues. This material offers plenty of options for artistic expression. Various types of epoxy exist.
Each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
To better understand what is epoxy resin? We look at the four main types:
High & Low Viscosity - Slow & Fast Setting
High viscosity resins have a thicker consistency. Better suited for filling gaps or bonding uneven surfaces. They also provide stronger and more durable bonds. High viscosity epoxy resins. Are ideal for projects where you want the finished piece to have depth.
Low viscosity epoxy resins. On the other hand. Have a thinner consistency and are primarily used for coating and laminating applications. They can penetrate deeper into porous materials to create a strong bond.
High viscosity has less movement and need more heat for the resin to be more fluid.
While low viscosity is very fluid. Require little to no heat to move and by nature have a better air release. The downside is the epoxy will tend to drip off the surface. Incurring more waste and will take a lot more coats to achieve the same thickness.
Slow setting epoxy take longer to cure, typically 24 hours or more. This gives users more time to work with the resin before it hardens. Making it ideal for larger projects or beginners who may need extra time.
Fast setting epoxy cure much quicker, usually within a few hours. This is great for small projects that need immediate results. Or when working with materials that cannot be clamped or held in place for an extended period of time.
Epoxy kits that cure quickly tend to produce more heat and are best used for small projects.
The Main Types Of Art Resin Kits
We’re here to help you understand the different resins available from Just Resin. If you're new to art resin epoxy. The wide selection from Just Resin can be overwhelming. You may even wonder if all art resin is the same. But don't worry, we're here to help you figure out what resin is best for your project.
There are four Mainly used resin kits. Coating Resin, Casting Resin, UV Resin and Acrylic Resin.
Coating resin is a popular choice for art. Great for creating a glossy, durable finish on paintings, wall art and other flat surfaces. It's easy to work with and self levelling, making it perfect for beginners.
Casting resin are thicker. Designed specifically for creating 3D objects such as jewellery, river tables or paperweights. Its slower curing time. Allows for more intricate designs to be created without worrying about bubbles forming.
UV resin has gained popularity in recent years due to its quick curing time under UV light. Making it ideal for smaller projects that require faster results. However, keep in mind that this type of resin can only be cured using UV light so it may not be suitable for all projects.
Acrylic resin is a non toxic alternative to traditional epoxy art resin. Is great for those who are sensitive to chemicals or have allergies. It also has a longer working time compared to most resins. Giving you more time to perfect your project before it sets.
A good way to figure out what resin is right for your art is to experiment with various resin types. This will give you a chance to see how each type behaves and what results you can achieve with it. Learn more about how resin art epoxy is used to create art by visiting Create Resin Art. The best art resin. Will depend on your specific project needs and personal preferences. Let Just Resin help you choose the best type of resin.
Understanding How Epoxy Works
Epoxy resin comes in two parts made up of a resin and a hardener. When these two substances are mixed together. They create a chemical reaction. This causes the mixture to harden into a strong, durable plastic. Commonly used in the construction and repair of boats, cars, and formula one race cars. It's used to repair household items such as dishes and countertops. Epoxy's strength makes it an ideal adhesive. For bonding dissimilar materials together. A variety of materials. Such as metal, plastic, and ceramic, can be attached to each other with it. The hardening process of epoxy is exothermic. Meaning it generates heat as the cross linking occurs. This can be beneficial in cold weather conditions. As the heat generated will speed up the curing process. However, in warm weather conditions. It is important to avoid exposure to direct sunlight or high temperatures. This can cause the resin to soften and can lose its bond.
Difference Between Epoxy Coating Resin And Casting Resin
Epoxy coating resin vs casting resin are often confused. You cannot use a casting resin for coating a surface. And visa versa. There are many differences between these two types of resin. You have to take this into account when comparing them.
Epoxy coating resins are higher in viscosity. Used to coat surfaces. Curing produces a hard, durable finish that won't scratch, stain, or fade. There are many surfaces that can be coated with epoxy art resin. Including wood, metal, glass, and plastic. Used in the world or resin art. Epoxy coating resin is known for its high gloss and clarity. Making it a popular choice for creating stunning and vibrant artwork.
Casting resin is generally very low in viscosity. Used to create castings and great for embedding objects. It cures to a harder, and more durable finish. That is also resistant to scratches, staining, and fading. Casting resin gets used in silicone moulds. To create a variety of objects. Such as jewellery, paperweights, and tabletops. It is also commonly used in the arts and crafts industry. To create unique art pieces and sculptures. The versatility makes a popular choice among artists. And hobbyists alike. With its clear finish. It can mix with dyes or pigments to create vibrant colours. Or left transparent to give the appearance of glass.
Which Resin Is Best For Casting?
There are three main types of casting resin available for casting applications.
Each type of resin has its own unique set of properties.
Some better suited for certain casting applications than others.
In order to choose the best casting resin.
You need to consider the following factors:
The type of object you are casting
The level of detail you need
The size of the object
The quantity you need to produce
The hardness once cured
Your budget
Once you have considered all of these factors. Begin to narrow down your options and choose the resin kit best suited for your needs. If you are still unsure which resin to use.
Consult with the team at justresin.store who specialises in casting. And can help you make the best decision for an art piece. Want to know more about casting objects, head over to our Casting Resin Project page.
What About Clarity And Clear Resin?
Clarity is important with resin epoxy. Both for aesthetic and functional reasons. If you are going to use it as a clear coating or finish. You will want the resin art epoxy to be as clear as possible. Likewise, if epoxy is used for functional purposes. Such as adhesives or sealants. It should be clear to appear eye catching.
There are several factors that can affect the clarity of resin. Including the resin type. The curing process. And the addition of any fillers or colourants. However, there are many types of resins and hardeners that are known for their clarity. Epoxy/diamine (cycloaliphatic) and epoxy/polyetheramine. If you need a very hard and durable clear coating. Or a finish that will last for years? Then an epoxy/diamine (cycloaliphatic) resin and hardener is likely your best bet. However, if you want a very high gloss with great effects. Then epoxy/polyetheramine would be best.
Just Resin recommends DiamondCote for high clarity resin top coats. And ArtCoast Slow for resin casting projects.
Do You Need To Fill A Space Or Coat A Surface With Epoxy?
Casting and coating are the two main uses of art epoxy. Each resin kit has its own set of challenges. It's important to select the right one. Casting epoxy is often used to create jewellery, sculptures, river tables, and other small to large objects. It is great to be poured into moulds. But not great at coating surfaces. It can cure very quickly or extremely slow. Depending on the casting system. And it will be very strong once cured.
Not really suitable for coating as its viscosity is very low. Typically, castings are less glossy. And do not provide a flawless surface finish.
Coating epoxy is perfect for filling very small gaps/voids and coating surfaces. You can pour, brush, or roll it on, and it cures slowly so you can adjust it before it sets. It's also easy to sand and polish once it's cured, a great option for furniture coating and tabletops.
The Safest Way To Make Resin Art
When using art resin, always follow the manufacturer's safety instructions.
In general, you should:
Use PPE as directed by the manufacture
Follow manufacturer's instructions when mixing and ratios
Use mixed resin and hardener in well ventilated area
Apply the resin in a thin layer
Avoid skin contact with the resin
Use gloves and safety goggles
Allow recommended full cure times before sanding or handling the piece
Store unused resin in a cool, dry place
Clean up any spills immediately with soap and water
By following these safety precautions. You can ensure that your experience with epoxy art resin is not only creative. But also safe. For best results. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. It's important to properly prepare your workspace before beginning any project. Make sure you have adequate ventilation. Protect your work surface from spills and drips. Follow the manufacturer's recommended ratios when mixing resin and hardener. Deviating from these ratios may result in an incomplete cure. Or improper bonding of materials.
Are You Measuring Resin Correctly?
When measuring resin. It's important to remember a few things. First, you'll need to know the ratio of resin to the hardener product. This will typically be 1:1 or 2:1, 3:1 and even 5:1 by volume or weight. But it's always best to consult your specific product's instructions.
Once you know the ratio. You'll need to know if this product is measured by volume or weight. Then you can measure out the appropriate amount of each component. For small to medium projects. This is a great option. Since measuring cups come in sizes large enough to fit the total volume in one cup. For large projects, such as river tables. It is much easier to measure by weight. Since any pail or bucket can be used.
Head over to our Resin Calculator page to help measure all your resin pour projects.
How To Use Resin For Art?
Our Project Helper does just that.
Help you determine how to use resin for art.
Resin epoxy is a great medium for creating beautiful and unique works of art. Being an adhesive. It can also act as a coating. An embedding agent and a sealant. A resin art kit comes in two parts. The resin and the hardener. Mixing these two parts causes a chemical reaction that hardens the mixture. Our Resin Project Helper will walk you through the basics of using resin for art. It will also help guide which resin art kit suits each type of project. Although working with resin may seem intimidating at first. We guide you through the process from start to finish. We provide detailed instructions. On how to properly mix the two parts together. We guide you to achieve different effects. With colour additives and techniques. Such as layering and marbling. The possibilities are endless when it comes to using resin for art projects. If you're an experienced artist. Or just starting out in the world of crafting. We have everything you need.
How Can Just Resin Help With My Resin Art?
Just Resin is a great place to find the right type of art resin. With so many types of resin available online. Choosing the right resin can be challenging. Just Resin can help you with your resin art project. By providing expert advice and tips.
Perfect for a variety of different art projects. Just Resin produces high quality resin kits.
Consider what type of project you're working on before seeking help.
Will your project be indoors or will it be subjected to sunlight?
Most epoxy resins are crystal clear with a glossy finish. Over time this can change. Not all artistry resin has UV protection to prevent yellowing. Weather and sunlight can have a major impact on the life of your project. And its brittleness over time. Using a resin kit that has great UV stability is a must. Just Resin uses HALS UV protection in all our premium resin systems. HALS UV protection is regarded as one of the best UV additives in the industry. This means that your artistic creations. Will not only maintain their clarity and shine. But they will also be protected from the damaging effects of sunlight. Our kits are also versatile. Making them suitable for various techniques such as casting, coating, and embedding. Beginners and experienced artists alike. Can create stunning pieces using the instructions included in each kit. Plus, our kits come in a variety of sizes. Enabling you to choose the perfect amount for your project. Without wasting excess product. Our resin starter kits come with all the necessary tools and materials. That way you can get started right away. Without having to purchase additional supplies. No matter if you're a professional artist looking to top up your resin tool kit. Or just starting out on your creative journey. A Just Resin Kit. Is the perfect choice for achieving beautiful, long lasting results.
Why Do I Want Fast Curing?
Fast curing epoxy is ideal for very small castings. And coating projects when many layers are needed. If you need a fast curing resin for a quick turnaround project. Then a fast curing epoxy like ArtCast Fast is the best choice. The best resin for large areas and thicker pours. Is a slow curing epoxy like ArtCast Slow or RiverPour is the better option.
Why Do I Want Slow Curing?
When working on a project requiring a lot of detail. You will want to use ArtCast Slow a slow curing epoxy resin. Due to the longer hardening time. It is easier to work with. So you can take your time and make sure your masterpiece is perfect. Slow curing resins are great for projects that require thick multiple layers. Embedding and very large pours. It's best to use a fast curing epoxy system. Such as ArtCast Fast if you need to apply a lot of thin layers quickly. Created purely for large deep pours. RiverPour has low exothermic reaction. And is the best option on the market for pour depths measuring up to 50mm.
The Best Art Resin For Art?
When used for art projects. Artresin epoxy provides a clear, glossy finish. Epoxy comes in different viscosities, hardnesses, and with various additives. All these factors can affect the way the resin behaves and how it will interact with your project. For art resin projects. You want to choose a resin that is clear and that will stay vivid and true when colourant is added. You also want a resin that is great at self levelling. So that your artwork will have a smooth, professional finish. As many art resin kits have little to no UV inhibitors. Over time all your hard work can go to waste as your project can dull. Yellow and go brittle. That's why having UV inhibitors. Will help protect your artwork from going dull or yellowing over time. Consider using our Art Resin from Just Resin for best results.
When choosing an art resin, it is important to consider the type of art project first. If you need a strong, durable finish, then you will want a harder epoxy. For projects that require flexibility. Like mirror and glass pours or coasters, then you will want a softer artresin epoxy resin. Additives can also affect epoxy and change the way it behaves. Some additives can make the resin thicker or thinner, and can also change the cure time.
Just Resin can help you understand the different types of epoxy resins available. And what each one is best for.
