Upgrade Your DIY Game: 5 Creative Ways to Use Epoxy Resin
Creating art is a very versatile process because you can turn anything into art. New types of art emerge all the time and lately, there has been a certain type of art that has gotten many people’s attention, which is epoxy resin art. This type of art lets artists experiment, innovate and create unique masterpieces. It’s a fun way to tap into your artistic side and craft beautiful artwork even as a beginner.
What Is Epoxy Resin?
Before we go over how you can use versatile clear epoxy resin in numerous applications, let’s first see what it is. Essentially, it’s a two-part solution consisting of resin and hardener. When these two parts are combined, a chemical reaction takes place in which they fuse to create something that resembles plastic. When this is over you’re left with highly durable material that is very versatile, easy to use and can be sanded and drilled if there’s a need.
What Is Clear Epoxy Resin Used For?
Epoxy resin has many uses, such as coating wood, metal, stone, tabletops and many other surfaces to give it a rich super gloss look and protect it from scratching and air humidity. These surfaces are durable, water-resistant, easy to care and clean. But, apart from these practical uses, it is also used to create all sorts of art and it allows people to play and express their creativity.
In recent years, the resin has soared in popularity and has gotten the attention of many contemporary artists and designers, as well as DYI hobbyists. Its versatile nature turns it into the perfect way to create artwork with exceptional depth and beauty. So, let us look at some ways that this substance is used to create masterpieces.
Coasters And Trays
Using resin to create coasters and trays has become increasingly popular because not only are they easy to make, but they are also very beautiful. They are durable, aren’t easily breakable and are easy to clean. The good thing is that you can add whatever you like, from glitter to colours, so that they can fit into your kitchen and living room and complement your interior design.
Jewellery
Resin can be used to make jewellery in so many different ways and its ease of use, shine and beauty make it perfect for making jewellery such as pendants, necklaces, earrings, bracelets and other types. It can be used clear or tinted with different colourants and you can add decorative items such as glitter, gold flakes, and dried flowers to make it more interesting and unique. You can even start a small business by selling your jewellery as the popular demand for resin jewellery has increased lately.
Sculptures
Resin sculptures are easy to make, compared to other sculptures due to the easy accessibility of the material. They are durable but lightweight which makes it easier to move them any time you want and place them wherever you want. You only need moulds are then you can make as many sculptures as you want. You can add different colours to create different versions.
Flower Preservation
Preserving dried flowers in resin is a great way to create a one-of-a-kind art piece and keep your favourite flowers with you for a long period. In addition to crafting a sentimental art object, you can also preserve flowers in resin as a way to design custom pieces of functional home decor. You can even turn it into a sculpture, a coaster, or even a piece of jewellery and you can add in all kinds of interesting details like gold flakes, glitter or even tiny seashells.
Art Coating
Adding epoxy resin to a painting or an art piece can enhance the colours and give the piece a glossy and clean finish which will also protect from general wear or scratches. The process can be a little daunting since you need to be very careful and you need to prepare your piece before you coat it. Make sure that the painting doesn’t have dust or hair on the surface, so make sure to clean it. When pouring the resin you need to be careful and spread the resin evenly and then remove the bubbles that will form a few minutes after you’ve spread the resin.
Other Supplies
When you decide to take up this type of art you are going to need some sort of supplies to turn the resin into a masterpiece. Some of these supplies are necessary whereas others such as glitter and gold flakes just make the piece better.
- Moulds – a variety of moulds are essential for shaping and moulding your creations. From simple shapes for your coasters and trays to frames for making jewellery you’re going to need it all if you want to express your creative side.
- Polymer clay – this isn’t a necessity, but combining it with resin will give new dimensions to your art. They are decorative and some different types and shapes can be integrated into resin projects giving them more character and dimension.
Is It Safe to Use?
Epoxy resin is relatively safe to use and when handled properly, there is nearly no risk to your health or safety. It’s recommended to wear gloves when working with resin to avoid irritating the skin as well as wearing a face mask if you’re working with resin in a space where there isn’t a lot of airflow. After the resin is cured, it’s safe. Skin contact is fine and it’s even food contact safe, however, if you don’t want to damage it, it’s best to avoid preparing food directly on it.
Crafting art with epoxy resin is a great way for artists and DIY enthusiasts to experiment with something new and make art with something that isn’t very usual. From functional pieces like coasters and trays to intricate jewellery and flower preservation, resin opens up a whole new world of creative expression. By exploring different techniques, you can unlock your full creative potential and create masterpieces that will last and captivate