My List of Must-Have Materials for Creating Stunning Resin Artwork

I love resin art, but it can be tricky. Over the past two years, I've compiled a list of some of my favorite materials for those of you who are just starting out and not sure quite where to start.

I've spent countless hours (and a lot of $$$) to figure out what works best for me personally and my resin art. Here's what I've found!

Bases

When pouring resin, I typically stick to wood bases. Canvas tends to sag under the weight of the resin if it hasn't been prepared properly, and I honestly would rather prep wood. This is just my own personal preference.

I like to get cradled wood panels from Blick Art Supply, especially when I am doing commissions. For my own personal art, I use anything from MDF to birch panels to random pieces from the clearance section at a craft store. Sometimes Michael's has cradled wood panels in-store too.

For wood - I usually prep with Minwax Sealer & Gesso.  Sand in between layers & reapply as many times as desired.

Tools

The more I got into resin art, the more I realized it really is NOT environmentally friendly. To offset a lot of the trash, I moved towards reusable silicone cups for mixing. I think it's important to consider the amount of waste this art form creates, and switching to silicone helps me reduce my trash.

Other necessities:

• Nitrile Gloves
• Respirator (mine is no longer available)
• Heat Gun
• Painters tape (blue or frog tape are fine)
• Plastic table cloths or trash bags to cover your table/work surface
• Mixing sticks - either popsicle sticks or reusable silicone ones

Pigments

• Powdered pigments (Stardust Micas, Meyspring, and Jacquard are brands I like)
• Resin pastes - I think that resin paste - particularly in white - is the best way to get that beachy lacing look so many artists want to replicate. I previously loved Mrs. Colorberry products, but the quality (in my opinion) significantly decreased in the second order I got. I will be trying new products and will do an updated review in a bit.
• Acrylic paint can help with creating opaque colors. I usually pick Artists Loft from Michaels.

Whatever additive you use, only use about 10% pigment to resin - otherwise, it may impact the chemical reaction and cause it to not cure properly.

Embellishments

Shells and glass pieces can usually be purchased at Michaels, Wal-Mart, etc. I have also found quartz pieces on Amazon for relatively cheap.

If you choose to work with glass in your pieces - I would recommend purchasing  fire glass (such as from Starfire Direct) instead of breaking it on your own because it comes tumbled with smoother edges. If you choose to break up glass beads yourself - be aware of the sharp edges.

Clear acrylic gems are also a fun find - these may be available at a dollar store or craft store.

Honestly, keep an eye out when you're browsing - you can use a lot more than you'd think as embellishments in your work!

Finishing

• Sawtooth hangers (from any hardware store or craft store)
• Sandpaper or an orbital sander (my preference) to remove any drips

Honestly, I think that about sums up my favorite resin materials. If there are any products you have questions on or want me to review for my channel - let me know!

xx Sam