Epoxy resin has become a popular material for a wide range of uses. Whether you’re making jewellery, coating a floor, or creating a stunning river table, epoxy resin offers a strong, glossy, and professional finish. With so many options available online, it can be tricky to know which one is right for your needs. This guide will help you understand the basics and choose the right epoxy resin when shopping online.
What Is Epoxy Resin?
Epoxy resin is a two-part system that includes a resin and a hardener. When these two components are mixed together, they go through a chemical reaction that turns the liquid mixture into a hard, durable solid. It’s loved for its strength, clear finish, and resistance to moisture and chemicals.
You can find epoxy resin in many types and formulas. Some are designed for small projects like art and jewellery, while others are meant for industrial or home improvement tasks. Knowing the differences will help you choose the best option for your needs.
Know Your Purpose
The first thing to consider when buying epoxy resin is what you plan to use it for. Different projects require different types of resin.
For Art and Crafts
If you’re working on small items such as coasters, jewellery, or canvas art, look for art resin. This type is usually:
- Crystal clear
- UV-resistant (won’t yellow over time)
- Low-odour
- Safe to use indoors
For Casting
Casting resin is used for deep pours such as river tables or moulds. This resin cures slower and is designed to:
- Pour in thicker layers (e.g. 2–5 cm)
- Avoid overheating or cracking
- Produce bubble-free finishes
For Coating
Coating resins are ideal for sealing surfaces like bar tops, kitchen counters, or floors. These resins cure to a hard, glossy finish and offer:
- Scratch resistance
- High-gloss clarity
- Heat and chemical resistance
Consider Key Features
When buying online, you can’t touch or test the resin beforehand. So it’s important to read the product description carefully and pay attention to the features listed.
1. Mixing Ratio
Most epoxy resins have a 1:1 or 2:1 mix ratio (resin:hardener). Make sure the instructions are clear and easy to follow, especially if you’re a beginner.
2. Curing Time
Curing time varies depending on the type. Art resins cure faster (often in 24 hours), while deep-pour casting resins can take 2–3 days. Choose a resin with a curing time that suits your project’s timeline.
3. UV Protection
If your finished piece will be exposed to sunlight, choose a resin with UV inhibitors to reduce yellowing over time.
4. Heat Resistance
Some resins can handle high temperatures once fully cured. This is essential if you’re coating a table or countertop. Look for resins that can resist heat up to 90°C or more.
5. Bubble Release
Some resins are designed to self-degass (release bubbles easily). This is especially useful in deep pours or fine details. You can also use a heat gun to pop bubbles, but choosing a bubble-resistant formula helps.
Safety and Environment
Safety is another important factor when choosing epoxy resin.
- Look for non-toxic options, especially for indoor use.
- Make sure the resin is low-odour and safe for skin contact.
- Always use gloves and work in a well-ventilated area.
Some resins are even food safe once fully cured, but make sure this is clearly stated by the manufacturer if that’s what you need.
Check Customer Reviews
When shopping online, customer reviews can tell you a lot about the product quality. Read reviews to find out:
- Is the resin easy to use?
- Does it cure properly without sticky spots?
- How clear is the finish?
Is customer support responsive?
Avoid products with many complaints about yellowing, strong odour, or poor curing results.
Know What’s Included
Some resin kits come with extras like:
- Mixing cups
- Stirrers
- Gloves
Pigments or glitter
While these are not essential, they can be useful for beginners. Make sure you know what’s included in the kit before buying.
Compare Prices
Price is another thing to consider. While cheaper options may be tempting, they might not deliver good results. A slightly more expensive resin that performs well and includes UV protection, clear instructions, and support is often worth the investment.
Also, check the volume of the kit (e.g. 1 litre vs 5 litres) and make sure you’re getting good value for the amount of resin provided.
Look for Trusted Brands
There are many resin brands online, but it’s best to stick to well-reviewed and trusted names, especially if you’re new to working with epoxy. A few signs of a good brand include:
- Clear and detailed instructions
- Responsive customer service
- Positive user feedback
Safety and usage certifications
Tips Before You Buy
- Know your project size – Calculate how much resin you need in millilitres or litres.
- Read FAQs and product guides on the seller’s website.
- Watch demo videos if available – they can show real results and application tips.
- Start small if you’re a beginner – try a smaller kit before investing in a large quantity.
Find Your Perfect Resin Match with Epoxy Res-iT
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Final Thoughts
Choosing the right epoxy resin doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding your project needs and checking the key features, you can confidently buy the right product online. Always read reviews, follow the instructions, and take safety seriously while working.
Whether you're crafting a beautiful piece of art or coating a surface for durability, the right resin will make all the difference in your final result.