Floral Resin Art

Resin art, a contemporary artistic medium, traces its roots to the mid-20th century when artists began experimenting with epoxy resins for their unique properties. Initially used for industrial purposes, resin found its way into the art world due to its versatility, durability, and glossy finish. In the 1960s and 1970s, artists like Peter Alexander and Paul Jenkins pioneered its use in abstract paintings.

Since then, resin art has evolved, becoming increasingly popular for its vibrant colors, captivating depth, and ability to preserve embedded elements, captivating art enthusiasts worldwide.

UV resin art emerged relatively recently, gaining prominence in the early 21st century with advancements in resin technology. Initially utilized in industrial and commercial applications, UV resin became popular among artists for its rapid curing properties when exposed to ultraviolet light.

The precise origins of UV resin art are somewhat elusive, but its use in jewelry making and small-scale crafts grew substantially in the 2010s. Artists and hobbyists began exploring its potential for creating intricate designs with minimal curing time, leading to a flourishing community of UV resin artisans and enthusiasts worldwide.

Difference Between UV and Epoxy Resin

UV Resin:

  1. Curing Method - UV resin cures rapidly when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. It typically hardens within minutes under a UV lamp or sunlight.

  2. Application - Ideal for small-scale projects or detailed work due to its quick curing time. Often used in jewelry making, miniatures, and other crafts where precision and speed are essential.

  3. Viscosity - UV resin tends to have a thinner consistency compared to epoxy resin, making it easier to work with for intricate designs.

  4. Safety Precautions - While generally safe to use, UV resin requires protective measures such as gloves and eye protection due to its potential to cause skin and eye irritation upon exposure to uncured resin and UV light.

  5. Limitations - Limited working time: Once exposed to UV light, the resin begins to cure immediately, limiting the time available for adjustments. Shrinkage: UV resin may experience slight shrinkage during the curing process, which can affect the final dimensions of the project.

Epoxy Resin

  • Curing Method - Epoxy resin cures through a chemical reaction between the resin and hardener components. It typically requires several hours to cure fully, depending on factors such as temperature and humidity.

  • Application - Suitable for a wide range of projects, including large-scale applications such as coatings, casting, and woodworking. Offers a longer working time, allowing for more extensive projects and adjustments before curing.

  • Viscosity - Epoxy resin is generally thicker than UV resin, making it better suited for pouring and encapsulating objects.

  • Safety Precautions - Proper ventilation and personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and a respirator are essential when working with epoxy resin due to its fumes and potential skin irritation

  • Durability - Epoxy resin typically produces a harder and more durable finish compared to UV resin, making it suitable for applications that require strength and resilience over time.

  • Heat Resistance - Epoxy resin generally exhibits better heat resistance compared to UV resin, making it suitable for coasters, tabletops, and other items exposed to heat.

Where can I get materials?

Materials are available through the following:

  1. Flowers 1

  2. Flowers 2

  3. Flowers 3

  4. Flowers 4

  5. Flowers 5

  6. UV Resin

  7. Padico Brand UV RESIN

  8. Epoxy Resin

  9. UV Light

  10. Cabochons and Bezels

  11. Silicon Mold 1

  12. Silicon Mold 2

  13. Silicon Mold 3

  14. Colors

  15. Stud Findings

Keywords to type in Shopee, Lazada or Amazon

  1. Pressed flowers for resin OR pressed flowers

  2. UV Resin

  3. Epoxy Resin for Arts

How to prepare your workspace for resin art?

  • Ensure your workspace is clean, dust-free, and at the recommended temperature for resin curing.

  • Use a torch or heat gun to warm up the resin slightly before pouring to help release trapped air bubbles.

How to ensure proper mixing of resin and hardener?

  • Thoroughly mix the resin and hardener according to the manufacturer's instructions, avoiding vigorous stirring to minimize introducing air bubbles.

What pouring technique minimizes air bubbles in resin art?

  • Pour the resin slowly and steadily into your mold or onto your surface to minimize the introduction of air bubbles.

  • Pour from a low height to allow the resin to flow smoothly and release any trapped air.

How to remove bubbles after pouring resin?

  • Gently run a heat source such as a torch or heat gun over the surface of the resin to pop any visible bubbles.

  • Alternatively, exhale gently over the resin surface or use a straw to blow air over it to encourage bubbles to rise and pop.

What steps should be taken while waiting for resin to cure?

  • Let the resin sit for a few minutes after popping bubbles to allow any additional bubbles to rise to the surface.

  • Periodically check the resin for new bubbles and pop them as needed until the resin begins to cure and hold its shape.

How to cover resin art to prevent new bubbles?

  • Consider covering the resin with a dust cover or using a resin dome if working on a larger piece to prevent dust and debris from settling on the surface, which can create new bubbles.

How do you inspect resin art after curing?

  • Inspect the surface for any remaining bubbles after the resin has cured. Minor imperfections can often be sanded or filled with a clear topcoat.

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