Q. What kind of resin do you use?
A. Depending on the specific piece and purpose I either use Alumilite brand resins or Art Resin.
Q. How long does it take you to make a piece of jewelry?
A. It’s often several days to a week. Many resins are better when used in layers that are allowed to fully cure before pouring the next layer. This method also allows me to give depth and dimension to the pieces.
Q. How did you get interested in using resin?
A. I have always been interested in things like the origami owl necklaces, time capsules, ships in a bottle, miniatures and things like that. There is something very romantic and sweet about them. Preserving things in time:) I actually found Ice Resin on accident at Hobby Lobby and the rest is history. I fell in with it.
Q. Is it hard to use?
A. Yes, like most everything else it took a lot of practice to get the hang of. Resin can be frustrating because if you’ve made a mistake. often most if not all of the things you’ve put in it are ruined as well. Each time I made a mistake I felt like I understand how it works just a little bit better.
Q. How do you know how much resin to mix?
A. Depending on whether I am casting into a mold or a finding I can usually measure the mold and calculate the volume. I always aim for more than I need because I always have scrapbook pieces or other odds and ends that I can use the remainder on.I always have a mold or two handy to pour in so that none is wasted.
Q. Is it expensive?
A. Sigh, yes. However, I have found ways to get it at a discount;) TIP!!! If your local Hobby Lobby carries resin, use the mobile 40% off coupon! When I consider the wide array of uses for it and the fact that with proper care your piece can potentially last a lifetime it makes it a bit easier for me to splurge.
Q. Any advice for beginners?
A. When I first started trying to learn more I watched so many videos on youtube, and like most things there is conflicting information out there. Some may vary in their mixing, measuring, casting, etc. methods. My advice to anyone would be to consider that different climates, methods, and procedures all play a role in the process of resin curing. And to follow manufacturers directions, no matter what. You can make so many amazing things and after investing the time and money into your project you don’t want to have to scrap it. Measure correct proportions and don’t eyeball. Resins cure by bonding each individual molecule of hardener and resin together. Therefore, pouring too much hardener can cause your resin to cure too fast.There will also be spots that remain goopy because the remaining hardener has nothing to attach to and remains in its hardener stage. The same applies with using too much resin. Take your time, you really want to be able to have both the time and the attention to babysit your resin. I can't count how many projects Ive ruined by leaving the candle unattended so to speak.
Lastly, it's important to consider costs of making things with resin. It depends a lot on the kind of things you are making with resin but if you work in thinner layers there are more costs involved with supplies. Things like cabochons and working in molds are great because you can mix larger quantities (just remember the more you mix, the faster it cures!) rule of thumb! Resin is an exceptional medium and alot of fun to work with. It really helps your inner creative come alive! Comment below for links back to your own work with resin, I love to follow and share on social media!
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