How To Make Resin Jewelry

Welcome to a helpful guide on how to make resin jewelry. If you’ve ever wondered how to make resin jewelry, you’re in the right place. Resin jewelry is a fun and creative craft that’s perfect for beginners. You can make everything from earrings and rings to keychains and pendants. I’ll walk you through the basics of how to make resin jewelry, step by step. It’s easier than it looks, and super addictive once you get started!

When I first got into resin, the very first thing I made was a couple of pendants. I had no clue what I was doing, but I was hooked right away. Watching the resin go from a liquid to a shiny little gem felt like magic. Sure, they weren’t perfect, but I was proud of them and I’ve been making them ever since. You can use these ideas for your own resin jewelry, to sell or even start your own resin jewelry business.

How to Make Resin Jewelry for beginners

1. Getting Started With Resin Jewelry

Resin is awesome for beginners because it’s super easy to use. You don’t need fancy tools or a big setup, just some resin, molds, and a few extras like glitter or flowers. Plus, resin jewelry looks amazing, even if you’re just starting out. It gives you that shiny, glassy look without all the hard work. You can make pendants with silicone molds or use pendant trays. It’s pretty limitless what you can make.

2. Choosing The Right Resin For Jewelry

Selecting the proper epoxy resin for jewelry making is a decision that influences the outcome of your jewelry projects. The first step in making jewelry with resin is to understand the types of resin available and the unique characteristics each one has. Epoxy resin and UV resin are the two main ones that I use, each with their own advantages. Epoxy resin is known for its durability, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of jewelry creations like pendants and chunky jewelry. It gives you a glossy, glassy finish and is great for embedding objects and creating intricate designs.

Craft Resin Sampler Pack

On the other hand, UV resin is a quick-curing type of resin that’s perfect for small, delicate projects like tiny food jewelry and earrings. It cures fast when exposed to UV light, so it’s super easy to use. You can complete your pieces in no time. See this Domino Resin Pendant Tutorial to learn how to use this type of resin step by step.

Let’s Resin Store

Once you’ve decided on the type of resin that best suits your project, then you can learn about other factors when choosing the right resin. Viscosity, or the thickness of the resin, is something to know about. Thicker resins are for embedding larger objects, while thinner resins work better for coating and sealing. Factor in the pot time, which is the working time you have before the resin begins to harden.

Another thing to consider is the clarity of the resin. Some resins may have a slight yellowing or may not be entirely crystal clear. Clarity is important, especially when working with translucent or transparent elements in your jewelry, as it affects the final appearance of your pieces. Check out this guide on how to use resin properly before starting out.

3. How To Use Resin For Jewelry

Gather Your Supplies

Collect your materials, including epoxy or UV resin, molds, inclusions (such as dried flowers or glitter), pigment or dyes (if desired), mixing cups, stirring sticks, a heat gun or torch, and personal protective equipment (a proper resin respirator, nitrile gloves and a well-ventilated workspace).

Prepare Your Workspace

Set up a clean, organized, and well-ventilated workspace with a flat surface. Cover your work area with a disposable tablecloth or plastic sheet to catch any drips or spills.

Measure And Mix The Resin

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to measure and mix the resin and hardener components in the designated mixing cups. Typically, this involves using a 1:1 ratio by volume or weight. If you are starting out with UV resin, there is no mixing.

Add Pigments Or Dyes (Optional)

If you want to color your resin, add pigment, thermochromic colorant powders or dye in small amounts. Mix well until you get to your desired color.

Pour Resin Into Molds

Carefully pour the mixed resin into your chosen molds. Fill the molds to the desired depth, taking care not to overfill. It’s best to use a silicone mold so that the resin does not stick to it. Here’s a list of other surfaces that resin doesn’t stick to.

Add Inclusions

If you’re embedding objects or inclusions, use tweezers or a toothpick to arrange them within the resin. Adjust their position until you’re satisfied with the design. Also, if you are using paper as part of your resin jewelry, you will need to seal it first to prevent the inks from running. See this complete guide on how to seal paper for epoxy resin.

Remove Air Bubbles

Again, use a heat gun or torch to pass over the resin’s surface to release any remaining air bubbles. Be gentle and maintain a safe distance to avoid overheating the resin.

Curing Time

Allow the resin to cure as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. This usually involves letting it sit undisturbed for several hours or overnight if using epoxy resin. When using UV resin, it will be cured within a few minutes.

Demold And Finish

Once the resin is fully cured and hardened, gently demold your jewelry pieces. You may need to flex silicone molds to release the items. After demolding, you can sand, polish, and finish your jewelry to get the desired shine and clarity. To learn more about finishing with sanding check out this guide about sanding epoxy resin.

4. Supplies For Resin Jewelry

Creating resin jewelry is a fun craft and you need the right tools and supplies. Here are some of the supplies I have on hand to make resin jewelry.

Resin

Resin is the base material for your jewelry. Depending on your project, you can choose between epoxy resin and UV resin, each with its own curing process and characteristics.

Craft Resin on Amazon

Safety Supplies

Safety Gear & resin safety should be your top priority when working with resin. Always wear gloves, a well-ventilated mask, and protective eyewear to avoid skin contact and inhaling fumes.

Full face resin respirators

Jewelry Making Supplies

Jewelry Molds come in many shapes and sizes and are what you will use for creating specific designs. Silicone molds are popular due to their flexibility and the way they are easy to get the jewelry out once it’s cured and hard.

Inclusions & Embeds

Collect and prepare the inclusions for your jewelry, which can include dried flowers, tiny charms, glitter, or other decorative elements like polymer clay embeds.

Mixing Containers

Silicone measuring cups and stir sticks are the best so that you can reuse them. You’ll need containers for measuring and mixing the resin. The best mixing containers are silicone as they can be reused many times to reduce waste and money. This set from Let’s Resin has everything you need to get started.

Pigments And Dyes

If you want to add color to your resin, there is a ton of options. These allow you to get vibrant, custom hues. I cover more information about using pigments and dyes below to make multicolored resin jewelry. Also, see this guide about the best colorants for resin to use. Below is one brand I like to use called Rolio Pigments. It’s a paste that you mix into the resin and it’s highly pigmented.

Air Bubble Removers

Use a Heat Gun or Torch to remove air bubbles for a smooth finish. A heat gun or torch helps to eliminate bubbles that form during the mixing process. You can also use a resin bubble remover machine.

Polishing Supplies

Once your resin pieces have cured, you’ll need sandpaper and polishing compounds to refine the surface if you have any bumps to get a high-gloss finish. Here is a guide on how to polish epoxy resin.

5. Work With Resin Safely

When working with resin, you must use the proper safety gear. Work in a well ventilated area and wear a respirator to avoid inhaling fumes. Use gloves and safety goggles to protect your skin and eyes. Have a dedicated workspace where your kids and pets can’t get in. Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific resin you’re using for safe handling, proper disposal of waste, and compliance with safety guidelines. Also, I never suggest kids working with resin. I consider this an adult craft.

6. Adding Color To Resin Jewelry

When it comes to adding color to your resin, you have several options, including dyes, pigments, and inks, each with its unique properties and techniques.

Dyes & Pastes

Rolio Pigment Paste

Resin dyes are highly concentrated, liquid colorants specifically designed for resin. They have vibrant, transparent hues that are easy to mix and control. To use dyes, add a few drops to your mixed resin and stir thoroughly. Dyes are good for a translucent, stained glass-like effect in your jewelry. They’re especially popular when you want to preserve the clarity and transparency of the resin while introducing color. Check out this helpful guide about the best colorants to use for resin.

Pigments

Resin pigments come in liquid, powder & paste. Pigments have a broader range of color choices and work well when you’re aiming for opaque or solid colored designs. They are used to create solid backgrounds or colored layers in resin jewelry. When using pigments, add them to your mixed resin slowly, as a little goes a long way. The level of pigment you add will determine the intensity of the color.

Alcohol Inks For Resin Jewelry

Alcohol Inks On Amazon

Alcohol inks are a popular choice for adding intricate patterns and designs to resin jewelry. They are available in a ton of colors and are for creating abstract or marbled effects. Alcohol inks are best applied in small drops or streaks onto the surface of the resin, so that they spread and blend organically. You can manipulate the inks with tools like toothpicks or straws to create unique patterns. Keep in mind that if you are selling your jewelry, alcohol inks fade over time. So use something like a pigment paste instead.

Glitter & Mica

Glitter is a highly popular choice for adding sparkle and visual interest to resin creations. Its reflective quality and ability to catch and refract light make it fantastic for resin jewelry. Practicing on small, disposable projects can help you refine your technique before working on your main resin jewelry pieces. Make sure you are grabbing a glitter that is made for resin because the cheap ones can fade or bleed colors.

Mica Powder Set For Resin

7. Working With molds

Molds are what you will need to shape and encapsulate your resin jewelry. For making jewelry, you can use so many things. Pendant trays, dominoes or wood blanks are super popular.

Mold Selection

The first step in working with molds is choosing the right one for your project. Silicone molds are popular because they are easy to use. Basically just pour in the resin and add in your inclusions. They come in lots of shapes and sizes, including those designed specifically for jewelry components like pendants, beads, and bangles.

Let’s Resin Silicone Molds

Adding Inclusions

If your design calls for embedded items such as flowers, beads, or charms, decide if you want to add them to the mold before the resin, or sprinkle them on top of the resin. It will depend on what you are using. Fine glittery elements will sit more on top, and heavy embeds will settle near the bottom.

Purchase Embeds For Resin Here

Demolding

After your resin has cured, carefully demold your jewelry pieces. Flex the silicone mold to release the resin. Be patient and gentle during this process to avoid any damage to the cured resin. Once removed from the mold, your resin pieces may have sharp edges or imperfections. Use sandpaper and polishing compounds to smooth the edges.

8. Embedding objects in resin

One of the most fun aspects of resin jewelry is to encapsulate objects and memories within your creations. Embedding objects in resin can transform your jewelry into deeply personal and meaningful pieces of wearable art.

Selection Of Inclusions

The first step in embedding objects in resin is choosing the items you want to encapsulate. This can range from dried flowers, leaves, feathers, or small gemstones to items of sentimental value, like locks of hair, small photographs, pieces of jewelry or antique plates that are broken up into smaller pieces.

Object Preparation

Prepare the objects you intend to embed. If you’re using organic materials like flowers or leaves, they must be dried and free of moisture to prevent them from rotting in the resin. Clean and polish other items to maintain their appearance.

Mold Choice

Select an appropriate mold to house your inclusions. Silicone molds are often favored for their flexibility, making it easier to release your jewelry pieces when the resin has cured. Depending on the design, you may require different mold shapes and sizes.

Layering And Positioning

Plan your design by deciding how you want to arrange and layer your inclusions within the mold. Take care when positioning the objects, as once the resin is poured, it’s hard to adjust them. If you have to, you can use your silicone mixing stick.

Curing

Allow the resin to cure for the recommended time. During this period, the resin hardens and becomes transparent, beautifully showcasing your embedded objects.

Demolding And Finishing

Gently demold your piece once the resin has fully cured. Be patient and careful to prevent any damage to the resin or the inclusions. After demolding, you may need to sand and polish the edges and surfaces. Embedding objects in resin not only adds an artistic dimension to your jewelry but also enables you to preserve cherished memories and keepsakes.

9. Resin And Wood Jewelry

Wood and resin make beautiful jewelry with natural grain and a pop of color. You can use small wood pieces to create pendants, earrings, and rings, adding clear or tinted resin to fill the space around them. Start with dry wood and seal it before pouring to help reduce bubbles escaping into the resin.

Wood Selection

Begin by selecting the wood for your jewelry pieces. Different types of wood offer distinct grains, colors, and textures. Popular choices include maple, oak, walnut, and exotic woods like padauk or zebrawood. Wood should be dry and well seasoned to prevent warping or cracking when encapsulated in resin.

Cutting And Shaping

Cut the wood into the desired shapes for your jewelry, such as pendants, earrings, or bangles. You can use saws, carving tools, or even wood blanks to create your pieces. Sand and smooth the edges so they are comfortable to wear.

Preparing The Wood

To prevent any moisture-related issues, seal the wood by applying a thin layer of epoxy resin or a wood sealant to the surfaces that will come into contact with the resin. This step will also help the resin adhere securely to the wood. Here are some of the best resins for stabilizing wood.

Mold Selection

Choose molds that complement the shape and size of your wood pieces. Silicone molds with various shapes, including those designed for pendants or cabochons, work well for this purpose.

Mixing And Pouring Resin

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and pouring resin. Pour a small amount into the mold, place your prepared wood piece, and then pour additional resin to cover the wood. This process will encapsulate the wood and create a clear, protective layer.

Design Freedom

Resin and wood jewelry offers limitless design possibilities. Experiment with different layering techniques, such as creating colorful backgrounds, adding embedded objects, or blending multiple layers of resin.

Sanding And Polishing

Once your resin has cured, gently demold your jewelry pieces. Sand and polish the surfaces for a high-gloss finish. Take care to smooth the edges for a professional appearance.

Assembling Your Jewelry

After your resin and wood components are finished, assemble your jewelry by adding findings like jump rings, clasps, and chains.

Personalization

Since you are working with wood, try personalizing your jewelry by engraving, wood burning, or painting on the wood surfaces. These additional touches can make your pieces truly unique.

10. Simple Jewelry Projects

If you’re new to resin jewelry crafting, there’s no need to be overwhelmed. Starting with easy projects is an excellent way to learn the basics and gain confidence in your skills. Here are some simple resin jewelry projects that are perfect for beginners.