You’ve seen the glossy, colorful resin pieces online and wondered if you could make them at home.
The good news? You absolutely can—and it’s simpler than you think.
With just a few basic supplies and some patience, you’ll be crafting eye-catching projects in no time.
But before you start pouring, there’s one essential step everyone overlooks that can make or break your first piece.
You’ll need just a few essential supplies to get started with resin art at home. Start with a quality epoxy resin kit designed specifically for crafts, and always mix the resin and hardener in the ratio specified by the manufacturer. Wear disposable gloves to protect your hands, and use silicone mixing cups and wooden sticks for accurate, easy mixing. A digital scale is highly recommended for precise measurements. To remove air bubbles that form during mixing, use a heat gun or a small torch. Choose your surface carefully—silicone molds or wooden panels work well as bases for your artwork. Add color using mica powders, alcohol inks, or resin-safe dyes; avoid water-based paints, as they can interfere with resin curing. Work in a well-ventilated area on a flat surface protected with parchment paper or a silicone mat to catch drips and spills. Keep paper towels and isopropyl alcohol nearby for quick cleanup of mistakes or excess resin. With these tools and precautions in place, you’re ready to begin pouring, creating, and exploring the possibilities of resin art safely and confidently.
While other mediums demand extensive experience or specialized tools, epoxy resin is surprisingly beginner-friendly, delivering vibrant, glass-like results with minimal effort. You simply mix equal parts resin and hardener, pour it smoothly, and watch it self-level—no advanced skills required. It cures clear and glossy, so even basic pours appear polished and professional. Made a mistake? Most errors can be corrected before the resin sets. Epoxy resin adheres well to common materials like wood, glass, and pigments, encouraging creative experimentation. It is forgiving, cures slowly, and requires no heat guns or kilns. Just work in a well-ventilated area, wear gloves, and follow the recommended mixing ratios. Most starter kits come with clear instructions and measuring tools for accuracy. You’ll see impressive results quickly, helping maintain motivation and confidence. With epoxy resin, you’re not just learning a new craft—you’re crafting beautiful, finished pieces right from the start. It’s an ideal way to begin your creative journey in resin art with both ease and inspiration.
Once you’ve gathered your supplies, begin by measuring equal parts resin and hardener with precision—accuracy is crucial, so use the graduated cups provided in your kit. Pour each component slowly to reduce the chance of introducing bubbles. Mix the resin and hardener together for at least 2 to 3 minutes, making sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the container to ensure a complete and uniform blend. Stir in a slow, steady motion; rapid mixing can incorporate air and lead to bubble formation. After mixing, allow the resin to sit undisturbed for about a minute—this resting period helps any bubbles rise to the surface and dissipate naturally. If bubbles remain, gently pass a heat gun or lighter over the surface to eliminate them, keeping the flame or heat source in constant motion to avoid scorching. Work in a warm, dry environment, as cooler temperatures increase the resin’s thickness and make it more likely to trap bubbles. Always wear protective gloves and ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to fumes. Avoid rushing any step of the process. Proper mixing is essential for achieving a clear, durable finish and avoiding uncured or sticky spots. Patience and attention to detail will lead to the best results.
If you’re ready to put your mixed resin to work, creating vibrant coasters with bold color swirls is a perfect next step. Pour your clear resin into silicone coaster molds about two-thirds full. Add drops of pigmented resin or mica powder in bright colors—think teal, magenta, and gold. Use a toothpick to gently swirl the colors in a figure-eight motion. Avoid overmixing, as this can dull the effect. Tap the molds lightly on the table to release any air bubbles. Let them cure for 24 hours in a clean, dust-free area. Once fully hardened, remove the coasters from the molds and lightly sand any rough edges. The result is a set of durable, glossy, and completely custom coasters. Each one will have its own unique pattern, making them special and personal. They also make thoughtful handmade gifts. This straightforward project helps build your confidence and highlights the beautiful possibilities of working with resin—all without requiring advanced tools or techniques. Just gather your resin supplies and add a splash of color to get started.
Since you’ve mastered simple resin pours, it’s time to level up with something wearable—DIY resin jewelry lets you create eye-catching earrings, pendants, or rings using silicone molds and a touch of sparkle. Choose small, detailed molds and mix your resin according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Add a pinch of fine glitter or mica powder for shimmer, then stir gently to minimize bubbles. Carefully pour the mixture into the mold, tapping it lightly on the surface to release any trapped air. Allow it to cure for 24 hours in a clean, dust-free area. Once fully hardened, remove the pieces from the mold and attach findings such as earring hooks or jump rings. You can experiment with layered colors or embed tiny charms for added personality. This craft is quick, enjoyable, and completely customizable. With just a few basic supplies, you’ll have one-of-a-kind accessories that catch the light—and attention. Ready to shine? This is your moment to create.
You’ve experimented with sparkle in small molds, but now it’s time to go bigger and bolder—introducing the resin river tray. Start by selecting two wood slices with naturally flat bases, or sand them until smooth. Position them parallel to each other, leaving a gap in the center—this will become your resin river. Seal the wood surfaces with a thin layer of clear epoxy resin to prevent air bubbles from forming.
While the sealant dries, prepare your main resin mix. Divide the mixed epoxy resin, tinting one portion with blue or gray pigment to create the river effect. Begin by pouring untinted resin into the gap to establish a base layer. Then, slowly add the colored resin, using a toothpick or skewer to gently guide it for an even flow.
Allow the piece to cure undisturbed for 24 to 48 hours. Once fully hardened, lightly sand any overflow or rough edges and buff the surface to a smooth, glossy finish. For protection and stability, attach small felt pads to the underside. The result is a rustic-chic serving tray ideal for holding keys, candles, or decorative accents. Simple in design but striking in presence, this handmade creation marks a satisfying milestone in your resin crafting journey.
Preserving memories or the delicate beauty of nature becomes an artistic endeavor when you embed photos or dried flowers in resin. This process transforms simple materials into personalized keepsakes with a smooth, glass-like finish. To begin, gather a mold, clear epoxy resin, and your chosen embellishments—such as flat printed photos or pressed botanicals.
Start by sealing photos with a waterproof spray to prevent ink from bleeding during the resin pour. Carefully mix the epoxy resin following the manufacturer’s instructions. Pour a thin initial layer into the mold to create a stable base. Once this layer is set but still tacky, use tweezers to precisely position your photos or flowers.
Next, pour a second layer of resin to fully encapsulate the items. Gently pass a toothpick through the surface to burst any air bubbles that form. Allow the piece to cure undisturbed for 24 hours in a clean, dust-free environment. After full curing, carefully remove it from the mold.
The result is a unique, handcrafted item—perfect as a coaster, pendant, or decorative ornament. This technique blends sentiment and creativity, offering a rewarding way to make art that reflects your personal story.
Once you’ve poured your resin, achieving a flawless finish depends on maintaining a controlled curing environment. Place the piece in a warm, dry area that is free from dust and sudden temperature changes. Allow it to cure undisturbed for at least 24 hours, avoiding any movement or contact that could lead to surface imperfections. If bubbles form, gently pass a heat gun or torch over the surface immediately after pouring to remove them.
For demolding, ensure the resin is fully cured, which typically takes between 48 and 72 hours. When using silicone molds, carefully flex the mold to release the piece without forcing it. For rigid molds, gradually peel back the edges to avoid damage. If the piece resists, it may need additional curing time—patience is essential. Always work on a clean, padded surface to protect the finished piece from scratches. Use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth any rough edges.
With careful attention and proper technique, your resin creations will consistently emerge smooth, clean, and professionally finished.
Even with careful curing and demolding, small flaws can still appear in your resin projects. Fortunately, most issues can be easily corrected at home. If you notice tacky spots, lightly sand the affected area and apply a new, thin top coat. To address bubbles, use a heat gun or a toothpick to pop them during your next pour. For dust nibs, gently sand them down with fine-grit sandpaper and polish the surface to restore smoothness. Uneven edges can be trimmed with a saw and then sanded for a clean, even finish. Cloudiness typically indicates moisture contamination—sand the surface and reapply a coat in a dry environment. Yellowing is often caused by prolonged UV exposure, so store your resin artwork away from direct sunlight. Streaks or fish eyes usually result from residue on the mold; ensure thorough cleaning and use a lint-free cloth for wiping in the future. With a bit of patience and these simple fixes, your resin creations will look refined and professional—no one will ever know they were repaired.
Something special happens when you hold your first finished resin piece—its smooth surface and glossy shine make it ready to be seen. Display it proudly on a floating shelf or your coffee table where light enhances its depth. Turn coasters or trinket trays into functional art in your living room or bathroom. If you’re gifting, pair a resin pendant or keychain with a handwritten note—personal touches make them meaningful. Friends who love handmade items will cherish a custom bookmark or ring dish. Teachers, coworkers, or neighbors appreciate small, thoughtful gifts like these. Wrap them simply in tissue and twine for a clean, handmade look. Don’t overthink it—your first pieces have character. Share them with people who’ll smile when they see them. You made this. Let it be seen, used, and loved. That’s where resin art truly shines.
You’ve got this! With just a few supplies and a little patience, you’re already on your way to creating beautiful resin art at home. From glossy coasters to personalized jewelry, each project helps build your confidence and skills. Don’t worry about small mistakes—learn from them, make adjustments, and keep moving forward. Now that you understand the basics, it’s time to have fun, explore your creativity, and let your unique style come through in every piece you make. Enjoy every step of the process!