So you want to start a new resin project but you're sick of using the same methods and getting the same outcomes? Today I'll detail a number of techniques which you can use to glam up your projects!
Crushed velvet effect:
This is one of my favourite effects, it goes beautifully in a coaster or for a tray. A way to achieve this design (other than using a mould with the effect built in) is using cling film. The way I like to do it is by pouring a small amount of heat resistant resin into the mould, you don't want to fill the mould because you want the effect to be in the middle. I would then allow the resin to degas or use a lighter to get rid of any bubbles. I then get a small square of cling film and then slowly and carefully cover the coaster with it watching out for any bubbles that form (if they do form you can use a toothpick to move it to the edge and then pop it with the toothpick or spay a little alcohol). Once the cling film is in place and settled, I start to gently pinch the cling film into resin to produce creases here and there, this is how it gets the crushed velvet look. Once it is to my liking I will then leave it for few hours to harden up, however it shouldn't be completely cured, as the next step is to take the cling film off, which can be really hard if the resin is fully cured. Once the resin is cured enough it's time for the best bit... choosing the colour! Mica powder is best in my opinion as you can just use a paint brush to apply it, I also prefer to use chameleon mica for the colour shift! After the colour is applied, You can simply pour the final layer on, it's best to add black or white colour to the resin so the colour that's been painted on really pops. Once this last layer sets you have your final creation. Below is some examples that I made myself:
Mica paint:
Another great technique is to instead of adding the colourant to the resin, paint mica onto the mould for a beautiful colour pop. One thing you'll learn about me from these blogs is that I really like to use chameleon mica, I can't resist the colour shift! So I recommend if you do paint mica onto a mould, then you should definitely try chameleon mica. Once you've painted the mould you should add black or white resin to the mould for the colour to pop. You should check out these micas that I sell right here:
https://epoxynoob.com/products/diy-12-color-symphony-chameleon-color-crystal-epoxy
Here is also something I made using this method:
Bubble effect:
While I haven't tried this method myself yet, I absolutely love watching videos on it and have it added to my list to try. What you want to do is pour a small amount resin (preferably black) into a coaster, some people prefer to use UV resin for this method as they can set it quicker. With the resin in the coaster, it's time for the fun part use a small amount of soap and water and then a straw to blow up some bubbles in a cup, when the cup starts to overflow with the bubbles, you want to the scoop the bubbles onto the resin, this is when the resin is left to set, the bubbles will pop but will retain the shape of the bubbles. Once the resin is set you can then paint the mould with your chosen micas and/or glitters, blow off any excess and then pour a clear layer of resin overtop to smooth out the effect!
Once I've tried this method I'll add pictures, however if you have any photos of this method yourself send me an email with them attached to epoxynoob@googlemail.com and I will add them with full credits, make sure to include any of your socials!
Water droplet effect:
When done right this effect is a really pretty one, I've tried it a couple times and I'm satisfied with the outcome. It's best to either use UV resin to kick this project off or if you have any leftover resin from a project you are working on, just plop droplets onto the mould (just make sure the resin is setting or thick enough otherwise it'll start to run and you won't get the look you want) Once these droplets are set, either paint the mica on the mould or add coloured resin to the mould and wait for it to set.
Dirty pour:
I love watching others do this technique but I've never really been able to do it successfully myself. What you want to do is mix up and separate some resin into different cups, once you've done this you want to get a bigger cup and then add all the mixed colours in layers. Once all the colours are added you just want to dip a mixing stick in and scoop it upwards, this way the colours are slightly blended but not mixed to create a new colour. When you have done that you are ready to pour! It goes beautifully in a mould but I would recommend trying it on an mdf board at some point too to create a unique masterpiece.
These are just a few of my favourites, however there are many more out there and many more to be created. I would love to see your creations especially if you have attempted any of the techniques above. If you have a technique you would like me to add or would like to send me any photos, you can either drop me an email, or tag me on instagram under the handle @epoxynoob I hope to see some of your artwork soon!