I started doing resin epoxy as a fun past-time three years ago. Over the years, resin epoxy has gained popularity, which has led to more brands and many more options for molds and decor (thank goodness). I've tried many brands over the years of resin epoxy, and there are several things I judge resin epoxy on.
First, it must be clear both when it is in "working time" and after. Resin used to be yellowish or easy to turn yellow over time, especially when subjected to sunlight and bright lights. 🌞 Over the years, this is an area companies have targeted. You want clear resin in "working time"and when dry. The brands listed below fit this criteria.
Second is what's called viscosity - or how thick the resin is during "working time". You may wish to use higher or lower viscosity for different projects. I like thicker resin when doing projects where I use many colors that need to stay separate - like pouring white on the snowman body and black on the hat. I like thinner resin when I am layering or using Micah to color the resin. Micah acts as a natural thickener, so it decreases "working time". I often have both types on hand. If I don't and I need thicker resin, I'll wait closer towards the end of the "working time".
The third component to a good epoxy resin is the "working time", or, the time you have to work or pour the resin before it hardens and becomes unworkable. I like at least 40 minutes, in case I mix a bigger batch that needs to go into lots of little items, like keychains, charms, embellishments, etc. I've had resin that hardens in 20 or less minutes, especially when mixed with Micah coloring, and it sucks! I frequently get wasted resin in this situation, so I want 40 minutes "working time". There isn't much more, 40 minutes is about the highest you'll get.
Another thing I look at is how difficult it is to level it once poured and how difficult it is to get the bubbles out. The resin should be able to be poured in the middle of something thin and spread itself out. For example, the thin areas in a snowflake or the heel in a high heel 👠charm. Resin should be able to spread to thin areas. Bubbles should be easy to get out by rising to the surface quickly and popping with alcohol or flame.
The last thing I consider is price. I am a struggling artist and live off this income singularly, so I can't afford the really expensive resin. Plus, I've used some before, and it hasn't really made a difference in the aforementioned criteria. Presently, these brands are brands I recommend based on my criteria:
These all are great brands, not in any particular order:
https://amzn.to/3FN4W5D by "The Epoxy Resin Store"
https://amzn.to/49mFx0i by "Teexpert"
https://amzn.to/461jvx9 by "Takimo"
https://amzn.to/3QMCqHF by "Beast Bond"
https://amzn.to/3u8pqU4Â by "Janchun" Resin
https://amzn.to/462no51Â by "JDiction"
As I stated, you don't need the expensive or name brand resin to get fantastic results. These brands are great, and highly rated on Amazon! Take my word for it 👌💥💯
Happy Crafting! 😊
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