Buy ArtResin Now and Pay Later
Our US website has a new payment option! We've partnered with Klarna so you can get ArtResin when you need it and split your payments over time.
Klarna makes buying ArtResin flexible: it provides an alternative to using credit and splits the cost of your purchase into 4 smaller payments over 6 weeks -- without paying any interest.
No fees. No interest. No catch.
Just the time and flexibility to pay for what you need.
Here's Rebecca to explain ...
How does Klarna work?
In 4 easy steps you can buy what you want and split the cost:
Step 1. Go To ArtResin.com
Shop for your favorites and add your items to your cart. Please note: at this time, Klarna is available on our US website only.
Step 2. Choose Klarna at the check out
Enter your details and choose the Klarna payment plan that best suits you.
Step 3. Complete your order
Klarna will send you an email confirmation now and we'll get your order ready and ship it.
Step 4. Pay over time
Your first payment is taken when the order is processed. The remaining
3 payments will be automatically charged to your debit or credit card according to the plan you chose. Klarna will send you a reminder email when your next instalments are due.
What are the requirements for using Klarna?
To be eligible to use Klarna you must:
- Have a U.S. issued debit or credit card (no prepaid cards).
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Have A U.S. billing address
- Have a phone number that receives text message
Now it's easier than ever to take charge of your shopping: get the ArtResin you need to get creative today, and pay over time with Klarna!
ArtResin: Made For Artists, By Artists.
@leahkirsch Is Our Instagram Winner!
Leah creates her signature pieces for customers around the world: "Generally, I speak with my client about size, shape, colors, writing...it's all very personal since everything is completely custom.
"We talk about everything from where the piece is going and why they are choosing the words/quote they choose. It's a really beautiful and special process; we end up talking and connecting about a lot of other things. I let them tell me about what they have in mind and then I offer my advice. They I purchase all the materials, prime, paint, chalk out writing, write, then, the best part: resin!"
Leah currently sells most of her work online, but is breaking into the big leagues and starting to show her work in galleries.
Visit her website: www.leahkirsch.com
Congratulations on your win, Leah!
To celebrate our amazing resin artists, every month we send out a 32 oz kit to a couple of folks who have tagged us on Instagram—and then we share their work with the world!
Don't forget, tag YOUR ArtResin work with @art_resin on Instagram, and YOU could be our next winner!!
ArtResin: Made For Artists, By Artists.
How To Make Resin Jewelry
What is resin jewelry?
Resin jewelry is wearable art made with epoxy resin. Epoxy resin is a crystal clear material made up of 2 liquid parts that transform into a glossy solid when they're mixed together. Epoxy resin's ease of use, shine and beauty lends itself perfectly for making resin jewelry such as pendants, earrings, necklaces and bracelets.
Epoxy resin can be used to make jewelry in so many different ways. Its versatility is why resin is so popular amongst artists, crafters and DIY jewelry makers:
- resin can be used clear or tinted with colorants.
- decorative items such as dried flowers, glitter or gold flake can be suspended within the resin.
- wood, beads or precious gemstones can be layered with resin.
- resin can also be used as a glossy, protective topcoat for jewelry pieces made of polymer clay, paper, fabric or butterfly wings.
Epoxy resin jewelry is fun and easy to make and you can handcraft designs to suit your individual taste and style. DIY resin jewelry provides endless possibilities to create statement pieces for yourself, to gift to friends and family, or to sell in your very own resin business! 
How do you make resin jewelry?
You can make resin jewelry by pouring resin into a mold (made of plastic or silicone) or into a metal pendant frame called a bezel. The resin will cure permanently to the shape of the mold or bezel and you can embellish it with colorant or inclusions to give it a one-of-a-kind look. From rings to earrings to pendants to charms, you'll find a huge range of resin jewelry molds and bezels for sale in every shape and size.
Can you make DIY silicone molds for resin jewelry?
Yes. Creating your own resin jewelry molds is an easy way to custom make your own designs. You can replicate and breathe new life into an heirloom or antique piece of jewelry, or transform an object you own into a unique piece of wearable art. As the molds can be used many times over, you can create multiple pieces to give as gifts or to sell as part of your own jewelry resin business.
Mold Making Material is an easy to use, two-part platinum silicone kit designed for making custom resin molds. The product comes in two parts that, when mixed together, cure from a liquid to a flexible, high strength silicone, perfect for DIY resin molds. Whether you want to copy a flat item or a 3D object, there are no limits to the shape of the object you wish to replicate. The molds are high quality and can be used over and over again to create hundreds of resin jewelry castings.
How do you make resin jewelry using custom silicone molds?
In this tutorial, artist Michelle Dechert demonstrates how to use Mold Making Material to create custom resin jewelry molds in the shape of a Monstera leaf and a teardrop.
She then uses these molds to create a leaf inspired pendant and earring set with alcohol ink and resin. Next, Michelle walks us through how to make resin earrings and a necklace pendant in a teardrop shape that incorporates wood and gold leaf. Along the way, Michelle teaches us how to correctly mix and tint the resin to create beautiful art that you can wear yourself, sell or give as a gift.
Let's get started!
What do I need to start making resin jewelry?
- The object you would like to cast (Michelle used flat acrylic cut outs in the shape of a Monstera leaf and a teardrop.)
- A container for your jewelry mold slightly bigger than the object. Michelle used a silicone coaster mold.
- Mold Making Material
- ArtResin epoxy resin
- A few pairs of disposable nitrile gloves
- A plastic or silicone measuring cup
- Craft or popsicle sticks
- Alcohol Ink: Michelle used green, yellow, and gold
- White Ink Sinker
- White ResinTint colorant
- A sheet of gold leaf sheet or gold leaf flakes
- A 4-sided nail file or sandpaper from 100-2000 grit
- A electric drill and a tiny drill bit
- Jewelry hardware: earring hooks or posts, necklace chain and closures.
- Pliers: needle nose and cutting
- A small piece of wood to fit inside the teardrop mold
- Food safe oil and a soft cloth
How to make DIY silicone molds for resin jewelry.
Step 1: Prepare the object you wish to cast
Since the items are glued down, we don't have to worry about them floating out of place. Let the silicone cure for 3-4 hours at room temperature until it’s no longer sticky to the touch.
Step 4: Remove the objects from the cured mold
Carefully remove the cured silicone from the coaster mold and flip it over to gently wiggle the acrylic shape out. A utility knife is useful in case you need to cut a larger opening to remove the acrylic shape or for cleaning up loose bits of silicone from the edges. 
Step 5: Prepare the ArtResin
Wearing gloves, prepare 2 fl oz of ArtResin by measuring 1 fl oz of resin and 1 fl oz of hardener into a plastic or silicone measuring cup. It doesn't matter if you start with the resin or the hardener first, as long as you measure perfectly equal amounts of each.
With a craft stick, mix the resin and hardener together for 3 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom as you stir so that the entire mixture is thoroughly combined.
Step 6: Pour the ArtResin into the leaf mold
Slowly pour the ArtResin into the mold, being careful not to overfill.
💡TIP: A silicone measuring cup is useful for pouring resin into small spaces since you can squeeze the cup to slow down the flow. Once you've finished pouring, allow the resin to cure right in the cup. The next day, simply peel the dried resin from the silicone and re-use the cup again and again.
Fill the mold by pouring a small amount into the center. Use a craft stick or toothpick to spread it out into the crevices.
NOTE: Don't fill the mold up right to the top if you're planning to add alcohol ink - you don't want the mold to overflow. You can always top it up with a little more resin after the inks have been added. Allow the resin to self-level and settle into all the crevices.
Step 7: Add alcohol ink to the leaf mold
Start with adding few drops of green alcohol ink scattered over the entire surface of the resin. Leave some empty spots for the yellow ink.
Follow this with a few drops of yellow alcohol ink in the empty spots.
Drop white alcohol ink sinker over the green and yellow alcohol ink. Follow a ratio of 1 drop Ink Sinker to every 2 drops of colored ink. Repeat as desired, adding a few more drops of green or yellow ink, followed by Ink Sinker, to fill any empty spots.
Add a few drops of gold for a metallic accent, if desired.
Add a drop of white to lighten up any areas that seem too dark. 
Top up the molds with a small amount of resin, if necessary. Gently drizzle the resin using a craft stick so it doesn't disturb or dilute the alcohol ink.
Step 8: Prepare the teardrop mold
Place small pieces of wood to the mold as desired. For this project, Michelle traced the acrylic shape onto a piece of scrap wood and used a skilsaw to cut small pieces that perfectly fit into mold. You can also use small pieces of scrap wood for a more organic look.
Step 9: Add tint and gold leaf to the ArtResin
Add a few drops of white colorant to slightly tint the resin. Or, if you wish, you can leave it clear.
Drop a sheet of gold leaf into the resin, breaking it into flakes with the mixing stick.
Step 10: Pour the ArtResin into the teardrop mold
Squeezing the silicone cup to control the flow, slowly pour a little resin into the mold. Use the craft stick to help guide the resin into the corners.
NOTE: Don't worry if the level of the resin is not flush with the wood. The piece will be sanded smooth once the resin has cured.
Weigh down the wood with small stones to prevent it from floating out of place as the resin cures.
Step 11: Cover and wait
Place a dustcover over top of the molds and allow them to cure for 24 hours. The clear lid from a large deli tray works very well.
Step 12: Remove the cured resin from the mold
Carefully remove the resin objects out of the mold. The resin will be flexible at first and will harden up once they have fully cured.
Step 13: Sand down uneven edges
Clean up rough edges to a nice, smooth finish, once the resin has fully hardened. You can use a multisided nail buffing file from the drug store or dollar store, starting with the coarsest side of the nail file and working your way to the finest. Or start with 100 grit sandpaper, making your way up to 2000 grit.
Use the nail file or sandpaper to sand down the wood so that the surface is perfectly smooth and flush with the resin.
Step 14: Add the jewelry hardware
Add the hardware of your choice, once the resin edges have been smoothed out and cleaned up. You can purchase jewelry hardware kits on Amazon or in craft stores.
Start by drilling a small hole for the hardware near the top of the resin piece, ensuring you don't drill too close to the edge.
💡TIP: Drill the piece on a piece of scrap wood to prevent your table top from getting damaged by the drill. 
Using pliers to pull the hoop open, feed it through the hole and close it back up again. Attach a second hoop to the first, adding an earring hook (or post) before closing it back up again.
To finish the necklace, drill a hole near the top of the pendant, being careful not to drill too close to the edges. Using pliers, pry open a hoop and insert it into the drill hole. Use the pliers to close the hoop once again. Repeat this step, adding a second hoop onto the first.
Choose the length of chain you would like for the necklace, and feed the chain through the second hoop. Attach the necklace closures.
Step 15: Season the wood with oil
Apply a small amount of food safe oil to a soft cloth, rubbing it on to the wood pendant to season the wood. Not only will this step finish the wood to its beautiful, glowing state, but it will help disguise any epoxy resin remnants that you couldn't quite sand off.
Your pieces are now complete and ready to wear!
Which technique are you most excited to try out?
We hope you found this tutorial helpful! Please leave any any questions or comments below regarding resin jewelry or making your own custom silicone molds.
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To see more of Michelle's work:
visit her website: www.m-k-art-graphics.com
follow her on Instagram: @m.kartgraphics
ArtResin: Made For Artists, By Artists
@alison_gunn_art Is Our Instagram Winner!
Whether it's a sparkling geode with crushed glass and crystals or an ocean inspired piece, Alison creates her resin art to represent earth and water in an abstract way: "When I'm creating an ocean piece, I'm often trying to use the image of water to evoke a feeling, whether that's peacefulness, ferocity, or longing. On the other hand, when I'm creating geodes, I just focus on creating something that is exciting and eye-catching. It's an opportunity to play with colours and glitter and have a lot of fun."
Alison has always considered herself artistic and learned resin art through online video tutorials and old-fashioned trial and error: "I never felt that I was expressing myself the way I wanted to until I started experimenting with resin. Resin opened up a whole new world for me."
Alison loves that, unlike any other medium, resin allows the artist to build layer upon layer, creating depth with various colorants, textures and techniques. She uses birch boards to create her resin art since they have the strength to support the weight of multiple resin layers.
Alison also creates resin coasters using dried flowers and leaves. She loves the freedom and versatility that resin offers, allowing her to be creative without having to be precise: "I just love the shine of it. There’s this way that a piece of resin art just pops that you don’t get with other mediums.
Alison creates cells in her ocean pieces using a heat gun to blend the tinted resin layers together. She achieves depth by adding a second layer of slightly opaque tinted resin overtop of the first coat, and then by adding waves in the top layer: "It’s a really cool effect and I’ve done it as many as four or five times on a piece to create that illusion of deep waters or extra-frothy waves."
For her geodes, she normally pours her first layer, then adds lines with paint pens after 24 hours once the resin has cured. She then pours a second coat of clear resin overtop to seal everything in and create a glossy finish. Alison says: "I tend to use a lot of mica powders and shimmery pigments and there’s just something about glitter that makes me happy, so I hope the viewer enjoys it the way I do and experiences a bit of joy with my pieces."
For Alison, creating resin art provides a unique sense of fulfillment: "Everything I create is so wholly mine. It’s a wonderful feeling. It has also exposed me to a whole community of artists, both in my local area, as well as in the online community through Instagram and Facebook. I feel like there’s a whole new side of me that I’m tapping into that was dormant for so many years. I feel more whole now that I am creating and being creative."
Alison sells her art pieces through a local gallery, The Paris Bohemian Gallery in Paris, Ontario, through her Etsy page and over Instagram and Facebook.
_________________________________________________________________________
Visit her Etsy page: www.etsy.com/ca/shop/AlisonGunnArt
Like her on Facebook: @alisongunnart
Congratulations on your win, Alison!
To celebrate our amazing resin artists, every month we send out a 32 oz kit to a couple of folks who have tagged us on Instagram—and then we share their work with the world!
Don't forget, tag YOUR ArtResin work with @art_resin on Instagram, and YOU could be our next winner!!
ArtResin: Made For Artists, By Artists.
@artisticallycrafted_ Is Our Instagram Winner!
A full time artist, Alia has been building her business since 2018, creating her artwork, managing her website content, social media presence and attending local art and craft markets. Though she is proficient in many mediums, Alia considers herself, first and foremost, to be a resin and alcohol ink artist: "I make very bold, vibrant art pieces. I love making coasters on ceramic with alcohol inks, large wall art pieces, resin keychains and bookmarks. I am 100% self taught and I am still learning as I go. The most recent [work] I have been exploring is Geode Art!"
Alia first discovered resin when she started her art journey, but felt a little intimidated and instead focused on alcohol ink. Eventually, she purchased a small kit of ArtResin to try and was immediately hooked: "It's super easy to use as long as you're following the instructions. I've made mistakes but you learn from them! That's the only way to grow.
Alia loves that resin is so simple, yet its versatility allows her to create so many different pieces: "There are so many things that can be made with it, from coasters to keychains, bookmarks, to incense holders, ocean art to geodes. I've even used resin on my kitchen countertops! I would not be able to do my art without using resin: it's taken my art work to another level.
"I have been able to make items for loved ones, for my supporters who see value in what I do. My art pieces are given as gifts, are up on walls all over Canada and USA and that means so much to me. It's special to have something that's made from my hands be loved by many."
To make her coasters, Alia uses alcohol inks and a hair drier to apply and blend the inks, allowing them to 'do their thing' until she is happy with the results. She allows the ink to dry for 24 hours, then applies multiple coats of varnish, every few hours, to thoroughly seal them. Next, she coats the coasters in resin and allows them to cure for a few days.
Once they are fully cured, she paints the edges with liquid gold or silver leaf, depending on the colour palette. Finally, she adds cork to the bottom of the coasters and they are ready for their new homes.
Alia sells her art pieces through her Instagram page, her website and local art & craft markets.
Visit her website: www.artisticallycrafted.ca
Congratulations on your win, Alia!
To celebrate our amazing resin artists, every month we send out a 32 oz kit to a couple of folks who have tagged us on Instagram—and then we share their work with the world!
Don't forget, tag YOUR ArtResin work with @art_resin on Instagram, and YOU could be our next winner!!
ArtResin: Made For Artists, By Artists.
How Dangerous Is Your Epoxy Resin?
If you've ever used resin, or are thinking of using it in the future, this is information you can't live without.
Here it is, the honest truth:
most epoxy resins on the market are really bad for you.
Do you actually know if the resin you’re using can cause cancer?
Reproductive harm or respiratory distress?
Do you know if it’s corrosive or not?
How can you tell which resins are safe and which are dangerous?
And just how dangerous are they?
The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is where you'll find the important information you need in order to stay safe.
ArtResin co-founder Rebecca Zak is here to teach you how to be a smart resin consumer. She is going to show you how to interpret a safety data sheet, what to look for, and how to spot the red flags.
This information could literally save your life.
What is an SDS and what is its purpose?
An SDS (formerly known as an MSDS) exists to educate people and to keep them safe. It is an internationally standardized document that every chemical must have to make consumers aware of what the product is all about, how it performs, and what risks might be associated with its use. 
Who is responsible for the SDS?
The responsibility for the SDS is on the business that manufactures, distributes or sells the chemical. The business must provide accurate information based on federal agency OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration) regulations. The SDS must be revised if there are changes to the product formula, there is new data (such as test results) to report, or when OSHA regulations are updated.
Where can I find the SDS?
The SDS must, by law, be made readily available to both employees and consumers. Many companies have made their SDS available for download on their website, but if you are unable to find the SDS online, you can request it from the company and they are obligated to provide it to you.
You can find ArtResin's SDS on our website.
What's in an SDS?
An SDS outlines important information such as personal protective measures, potential hazards, first aid procedures, the product's ingredients and chemical properties, as well as safe storage, handling, transport and disposal considerations.
The SDS is templated into 16 standardized sections as per OSHA, so that the safety information is presented in the same way for every product. To be compliant with OSHA, the resin and hardener should have their own, separate Safety Data Sheet.
Using ArtResin's Resin SDS as an example, let's walk through, section by section, to highlight the information you need to be aware of.
Section 1. Identification
This section identifies the chemical the SDS is for, the name that the product is commonly known by, and what its recommended use is. Section 1 must also list the name and contact information of the manufacturer, importer or distributor, including an emergency phone number.
Easy enough.
Section 2. Hazards Identification
Section 2 is where you’ll find language and pictograms to identify potential health risks associated with the use of the product. This section is so important, they put it right after the product’s name and manufacturer. Section 2 includes the chemical's hazard classification, signal word, hazard and precautionary statements and pictograms.
If a product is carcinogenic, or it causes respiratory distress, or there's a risk of anything happening to you from using this product, Section 2 is where it must be listed.
Any product that is classified as an irritant carries the signal word “Warning” and must show a pictogram of an exclamation in a red diamond.
There are hazard and precautionary statements to accompany these classifications and the business is responsible for recording all the applicable statements from a huge list of possibilities. If they don't, their liability is on the line.
For ArtResin, we have precautionary statements like “Keep out of reach of children”, “Wear protective gloves”, “If skin irritation/rash occurs, get medical attention” etc. These are all things that make sense with the irritant classification.
However, if you look at the SDSs of other resins, you will frequently see pictograms like a skull and cross bone to indicate the product can cause death or poisoning, and/or pictograms to indicate the product causes skin burns and corrosion, poses a health hazard, is flammable, and is harmful to the environment.
Here is what's most concerning: although other resin companies might have these warning pictograms in their SDS, they often do not appear on the product label as required. In other words, these resins are mislabelled. Doing so hides the toxicity of the product and does not allow you, the consumer, to make an informed choice.
Along with these scary pictograms, you will also see hazard statements such as: "Causes serious eye damage"; "Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child"; "Very toxic" etc. In addition, the signal word for these terrible resins has been escalated from WARNING to DANGER. ArtResin does not have hazard statements like this because it is NON-HAZARDOUS and we have certification to back that up.
In no uncertain terms, the SDS lets you know what you’re dealing with - and why you may want to choose something that doesn’t make you fearful for your safety and wellbeing.
Down below are ArtResin's National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Hazardous Materials Identification System (HMIS®) ratings. These diamond-shaped pictograms follow a chemical rating system on a scale of 0 to 4 to show at-a-glance how flammable and hazardous the product is, respectively.
A rating of 0 indicates a low hazard, whereas a 4 would indicate high hazard. The diamonds are color-coded for quick reference:
- blue for health hazard
- red for flammability
- yellow for chemical reactivity (NFPA) or physical hazard (HMIS®)
- white for another special hazard (NFPA) or personal protection (HMIS®)
Section 3. Composition/Information On Ingredients
This section identifies the ingredients in the product, including their chemical name, common name and their CAS number. A CAS (or, “Chemical Abstracts Service”) number is assigned to chemicals for easy identification. You’ll see ours below:
Section 4. First Aid Measures
Section 4 describes what first aid care is necessary for an individual who has ingested or inhaled the product or who has come into direct contact with it through their eyes or skin. It also indicates what symptoms or effects may occur as a result of exposure.
Section 5. Fire Fighting Measures
This section provides recommendations for fighting a fire caused by this chemical, including suitable extinguishers and protective equipment, as well as possible hazards that may occur as a result.
Section 6. Accidental Release Measures
Section 6 outlines the steps that should be taken if the product spills or releases, including clean up equipment and how best to contain the material.
Section 7. Handling And Storage
Section 7 provides guidance on safe handling practices while working with the product, as well as safe storage recommendations.
Section 8. Exposure Controls
This section offers guidance on the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required to handle the product, based on the hazards outlined in Section 2. 
This lets you know you need a pair of disposable gloves (as is the case with ArtResin) or if you're looking at suiting up in a hazmat suit, a full-on gas mask and goggles. You may be surprised that the latter is the norm! 
Section 9. Physical And Chemical Properties
Section 9 describes the physical properties associated with the product, including its appearance and odor. It also describes the product's chemical properties. 
Section 10. Stability And Reactivity.
Section 10 describes the product's chemical stability and reactivity information.
Section 11. Toxicological Information
This section identifies if exposure to this product may result in toxic effects and what those might be.
Section 12. Ecological Information
Section 12 outlines the ecological impact this product might have if it was released into the environment.
Section 13. Disposal Considerations
This section tells you how to dispose of this product properly.
Section 14. Transport Information
This section provides transport information, including the transport classification, whether the product is hazardous and, if so, what precautions need to be taken to ship it safely.
Section 15. Regulatory Information
This section identifies compliance with health and safety regulations not already covered in the previous sections, such as Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations and Proposition 65 regulations for the state of California.
Section 16. Other Information
This last section indicates when the SDS was prepared and the date of the most recent revision. It also offers a space to mention any other information that was not already covered.
What part of the SDS should I look out for?
To stay safe under day-to-day, normal use, the sections you really want to focus on are Sections 2, 8 and 11; the Hazards, PPE, and Toxicity, respectively. These sections spell out in no uncertain terms what the chemical is capable of as far as harming you, and what precautions you need to take given its chemical composition.
In other words, if a resin is dangerous to breathe in without an industrial grade respirator, if it will burn your skin, poison you or seriously compromise your health, you have a right to know so you can THROW. IT. OUT. 
Why aren't all epoxy resins the same?
At this point, you're probably wondering what makes one resin so different from another? Why do some resins have the capacity to kill you or destroy your health, while others are totally safe to use?
The real differentiator in resins is FILLER.
The resins that have the potential to cause harm all have filler in them to drive down the cost, but because filler is almost always a solvent, that also makes the product toxic. These solvent fillers do not bond in the chemical reaction of the epoxy resin and because they have nowhere to go, they are released into the air as noxious fumes and VOCs.
There are so many fillers that can leach out over time which could never be used for food contact or skin contact. Furthermore, any resins with filler (which, unfortunately, is almost every resin on the market) will have respiratory warnings in sections 2 and 8. This means that unless you’re suiting up in a respirator, you’re doing damage to your body. Sometimes irreversible damage.
Is ArtResin safe?
ArtResin contains no fillers and no solvents that can cause unwanted toxic effects. Everything in the ArtResin formula bonds together chemically, and that means NO VOCs and no fumes that can cause respiratory distress.
Legitimately.
To back that up, we have certifications to show that we passed:
- Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry tests showing ArtResin does not leach any chemicals when cured, including nonyl phenol.
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13 different migration and food safety tests (compliant with regulations from the United States, Canada, Europe, Great Britain and Australia) determining that ArtResin is fully inert when cured.
- Safety Standard ASTM D-4236 Toxicological Risk Assessments to confirm that ArtResin's product claims and usage instructions are safe and accurate, and that the product is correctly labelled.
In other words, if any component of the ArtResin formula contained dangerous fillers, solvents or hazardous chemicals that could harm you when used as directed, or the product released VOCs, fumes or other hazardous compounds that could leach out after curing, we could not have passed these tests.
A Toxicological Risk Assessment takes into account every aspect or state of the material throughout its process, including resin on its own in liquid form, hardener on its own in liquid form, resin + hardener combined in liquid form, while being torched and while curing. Below you can see a letter from a board certified toxicologist who performed a Risk Assessment test on ArtResin and determined that:
- ArtResin meets safety standard ASTM D-4236
- ArtResin is non-hazardous under normal conditions of use.
- Gloves are the only personal protective equipment required when using ArtResin, to prevent the product from coming into contact with the user's skin.
Restech Environmental Products LLC is a parent company to ResinVentures, who manufacture and distribute ArtResin. Read more about ResinVentures and ArtResin's story in our blog Is ArtResin A Proprietary Formula? Or Is ArtResin A Re-seller?
Is Benzyl Alcohol safe?
Many resin manufacturers include the ingredient Benzyl Alcohol in their resin formulations. Here are a few things to be aware of:
- Benzyl Alcohol (CAS 100-51-6) is a semi-volatile solvent that is often added to epoxy resin as a diluent to reduce viscosity and improve flow.
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Benzyl alcohol is non-reactive meaning it does not form a chemical bond with other ingredients in the resin and will leach out after the resin cures.
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The FDA has stringent limits on the amount of Benzyl Alcohol allowed in epoxy resin coatings intended for food contact, and furthermore, limits the use of coatings containing Benzyl Alcohol to industrial purposes: In Title 21 of the FDA's Code of Federal Regulations under section 175.300 (viii) (b) it states that "Benzyl alcohol (CAS Reg. No. 100-51-6), for use only in coatings at a level not to exceed 4 percent by weight of the resin when such coatings are intended for repeated use in contact with foods ..." and that "Use shall be limited to coatings for tanks of capacity greater than 530,000 gallons."
- There are resins on the market containing more than twice the FDA's approved amount of 4% Benzyl Alcohol by weight, yet claim they are food safe for home use.
ArtResin does not contain Benzyl Alcohol, or any other non-reactive diluents in our formula. If you examine an SDS and see that the resin or hardener you're using contains Benzyl Alcohol (CAS 100-51-6) under Section 3, BEWARE. It is especially a cause for concern if the label, website or marketing claims that the product is food safe, or free of solvents, non-reactive diluents and VOCs.
Do I need to use a respirator while using ArtResin?
For many resin brands on the market, wearing a respirator is a requirement. ArtResin, however, is a clean system, meaning you do not need to use a respirator when using ArtResin as directed and in a well-ventilated area.
It's important to note that the recommendation to wear a respirator while using ArtResin in a non-ventilated space is intended as an extra precaution, not as a requirement. Standard practice in the chemical industry is to over label and over warn for safety.
Of course, out of an abundance of caution, the choice is always yours to wear a respirator. We always recommend that the user takes whatever precaution they wish to take in order to have the most comfortable experience.
Is ArtResin's smell harmful?
ArtResin has a very low odor, but it's important to note that what you are smelling is simply an odor and not fumes. In fact, ArtResin produces no fumes or VOCs so any scent you may detect is not an indication of potential danger. However, when it comes to odor, we all have different levels of tolerance. Should you find the odor bothersome when using ArtResin, wear a respirator to make your experience more comfortable. For more information, see our blog What's That Smell? Explaining Epoxy Resin's Odor.
What if I have an allergic reaction to ArtResin?
It’s possible to be allergic (or to become allergic) to an ingredient that is safe for the rest of the population. This is also true for epoxy resin.
Approximately 2% of epoxy resin users will demonstrate allergic symptoms to the basic chemical components of epoxy resin. This means that an epoxy allergy is not specific to a particular brand: If you're allergic to one epoxy resin, you will be allergic to all epoxy resins. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to tell whether someone will have an epoxy allergy until symptoms present themselves. Allergic symptom(s) typically present as temporary skin inflammation and/or swelling upon exposure.
⚠️ PLEASE NOTE: In the event of these symptoms, regardless of when reactions occur or their severity, allergy sufferers should discontinue use of ALL epoxy resins indefinitely in order to protect themselves.
It's also important to note that an allergic reaction is not the same as the serious health complications, including chronic respiratory issues, that may result from exposure to epoxy that contains VOCs/fumes, solvents or non-reactive diluents. For more information on epoxy resin allergies, please see our blog Can You Be Allergic To Epoxy Resin?
Why is ArtResin so expensive?
To be honest, it costs a LOT to produce a product like ArtResin, but if you’re uncompromising in quality and safety, then things cost more.
The bottom line is that the resin you're using shouldn't hurt you. Dave and Rebecca developed the ArtResin formula with the help of a chemist after looking diligently for a brand of epoxy resin that wouldn’t give them headaches, and that they could use with kids and pets around at home. It didn’t exist, and they knew that other artists would also be interested in a safe resin option. After all, who doesn't want to stay safe?
As with most things in life, you get what you pay for. You can have Triple A Wagyu steak for dinner, or you can have cat food. One of these can make you very sick. And if there is anything we’ve learned recently, being sick sucks.
So while we certainly think ArtResin is the best and we'd love to convince you of that too, what we really want is for you to be aware of the resin you're purchasing and what you're dealing with when you use it. To keep yourself safe, we urge you to:
- Ask for the SDS of every resin you’re working with.
- Look for the pictograms.
- Read the hazard statements.
- Put on the PPE accordingly.
We hope you’ve found this information insightful. Feel free to post any questions or comments down below and we will get back to you! Please share this information with your fellow artists and help to keep people safe.
ArtResin: Made For Artists, By Artists.
Resin Art- A Beginner's Guide
All You Need To Know About Epoxy Resin Art
Epoxy resin is an easy medium to learn. It's a fun way to tap into your artistic side, and you’ll be amazed at the beautiful artwork you can create, even as a beginner. The best part is that you’ll never run out of new ideas, new techniques and new projects to try.
Working with epoxy resin is simple and once you understand the basics, you’ll find the possibilities are endless! From 3-dimensional paintings and home decor to sparkling jewelry and one-of-a-kind furniture, epoxy resin has an unparalleled versatility and a beauty that is irresistible.
Our beginner’s guide to resin art includes everything you’ll need to successfully start with epoxy resin. Once you reach the bottom of the page, you’ll be able to confidently answer the following questions about epoxy resin art:
- What is epoxy resin made of?
- What is resin art?
- Is epoxy resin safe to use?
- What kind of resin should I get?
- What epoxy resin supplies do beginners need?
- What colors and dyes are suitable for resin art?
- How can I create epoxy resin art as a beginner? (including how to calculate the resin amount, resin pouring & resin processing time.)
- How can I avoid epoxy resin bubbles?
- How easy is DIY resin art?
- Plus, get our bonus Top 10 Easy Resin Project Ideas For Beginners.
Ready to impress your friends - and potentially your customers - with some unique epoxy resin masterpieces? Read on to get inspired!
What Is Epoxy Resin Made Of?
Epoxy resin is a clear liquid plastic made of two parts: resin and hardener. First, let’s dig into the term “resin”. There are two types of resin: natural resin and synthetic resin.
What natural resin is?
Natural resin is a thick, sticky liquid that plants excrete for protection and healing. The core attribute of natural resin is that it can harden and transform into a transparent substance, used in various applications including jewelry, perfumes, lacquers and varnishes. Natural resin is difficult to obtain which makes it very expensive.
What synthetic resin is?
Synthetic resin- i.e. liquid plastic - is an artificial, more affordable version of natural resin, and comes in the form of viscous liquids that harden into a plastic surface. The most widely used synthetic resin is epoxy resin, usually made of polyester, silicone or polyurethane. Epoxy resin is popular because it is economical, versatile, and effectively imitates both the liquid and solid properties of natural resins.
Synthetic resin cannot transform into a solid without a hardener. Hardeners serve as the catalyst that cures resin. They are the epoxy curing agents, and are typically made of chemical compounds such as polyamides and amines.
When synthetic resin is mixed with a suitable hardener, a chemical reaction (aka curing) occurs. Curing transforms the two liquid materials into a hard, durable, shiny solid within a few hours at room temperature. The result is a crystal clear, high-gloss surface. When you use epoxy resin to create artwork, this is referred to as Resin Art.
What Is Epoxy Resin Art?
When artists and crafters refer to the resin they use to create "resin art", they’re almost always talking about epoxy resin.
Initially, epoxy resin was used in industrial applications. That is, until artists discovered that a shiny coat of resin provided a sleek, modern finish and made the color in paintings and photographs pop.
In recent years, resin art has soared in popularity and has become a true obsession for contemporary artists and designers, as well as for crafters and DIY hobbyists.
Epoxy resin can be used in a variety of ways to create artwork with exceptional depth and beauty. Here are some of the most popular resin art creations:
- Coasters & Trays
- Jewelry Resin
- Flow Art Projects
- Abstract Art
- Resin Castings
- Resin Wood Lamps
- Epoxy Countertops
- Sculptures
- Resin Geode Art
- Mosaics
- Charcuterie Platters / Serving Boards
- Flowers Preserved in Resin
- Epoxy Art Paintings
- Wood River Tables
- Resin Pens
- Resin Bar Tops
- Resin Tumblers
You can also use epoxy resin as a top coat for drawings, paintings and photos, giving them a shiny finish while also protecting them from damage and the effects of UV light.
The addition of resin colorants and inclusions creates mesmerizing effects. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, experimentation is key when working with epoxy resin.
Is Epoxy Resin Safe To Use?
Not all epoxy resin brands are created equally. Many brands on the market contain dangerous solvents and fillers in their formulas in order to stretch the product. They come with scary warnings on the label and pose some serious health risks to the user.
Thankfully, there is a brand on the market which is non-toxic and has been properly tested to ensure your health and safety won't be compromised. ArtResin® Epoxy Resin was designed specifically for artists and crafters. It's a pure, low-odor formula that is safe for use at home when used as directed. It contains no harmful solvents and releases no VOCs or fumes that can irritate your lungs. Unfortunately, this is not the case for most epoxy resin brands so before you start, always consult the Safety Data Sheet for the brand of resin you are using to ensure the product you're using is safe, or that you are protecting yourself with the correct personal protective equipment, such as safety goggles and respiratory protection.
All epoxy resins, regardless of brand, can cause skin irritation in some users, so make sure you follow these common-sense, safety precautions:
- Wear disposable, nitrile gloves.
- Wear long-sleeved clothing.
- Work in a well-ventilated space with open windows and doors.
- Do not drink or eat while working with resin.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Remove all traces of resin from tools, work surfaces and clothes with paper towel and isopropyl alcohol.
- Do not dispose of unused resin down the sink.
Read more about safety precautions.
What Kind Of Resin Should I Get?
When you’re first starting out with resin art, you may be tempted to buy the cheapest epoxy resin you can find. The truth is, this is exactly the type of resin to stay away from!
Cheap epoxy resins are not designed for art. Typically, they are made with toxic ingredients, emit noxious fumes, and will turn yellow, ruining your artwork and wasting your money. This is exactly where the saying "You get what you pay for" rings true.
Read which epoxy resin is best for your artwork.
In the end, it's worth paying a little extra for a product like ArtResin; high-quality, crystal clear, non-toxic and 100% safe epoxy resin to protect both your health and your artwork.
How do we know ArtResin is safe for home use? Find out in our blog ArtResin's Safety Certifications - What Do They Mean?
What Epoxy Resin Supplies Do Beginners Need?
No matter what you make, there are a few key tools you need when working with epoxy resin. As your confidence grows and you experiment with more projects, you can start adding in colorants, silicone molds, 3D inclusions and more!
Here are the basic resin supplies and accessories to buy:
- Resin & hardener - ArtResin® Epoxy Resin
- Plastic measuring cups
- Plastic mixing container
- Disposable gloves, stir stick & spreader
- Plastic drop sheet - to protect your work surface
- Level - to ensure your work is perfectly horizontal
- Torch - to get rid of bubbles
- Toothpicks - to fish out bits of dust
- Dust cover - to protect your work while it cures
- Paper towel & isopropyl alcohol - to clean sticky tools
Buy our resin accessories today!
Optional tools, depending on the project:
- Plastic stands - to prop artwork off of the work surface
- Masking tape - taping off the back of your piece will catch drips
- Colorants - use colorants made for resin, like Art Resin™ ResinTint
- Embellishments - enhance your resin with glitter, inks, pigments, stones, beads, shells, gold flakes, and more.
- Small mixing cups & craft sticks - for mixing small amounts of tinted resin
- Heat gun or hair dryer - to gently push your resin around for flow art
- Silicone molds - for making coasters and jewelry
- Alcohol Ink - a must for making petri dish art
What Colors And Dyes Are Suitable For Resin Art?
Resin artists use many different types of colorants to tint epoxy resin. Each one has its own unique qualities and effects that will determine the final result. Some of the most popular resin colorants include:
- Powdered pigment
- Mica powder
- Richly saturated ResinTint, designed specifically for use with resin
- Alcohol Ink, the specific colorant required for petri dish art
- Acrylic paint
- Acrylic ink
- Glitter, not a true colorant but still provides a colorful effect
Resin colorants are available in so many options including solid colors, metallics, neons/fluorescents, and pearlescent effects. The choice is yours!
To color epoxy resin, first, mix the resin and hardener, and then add the epoxy colorant of your choice. Stir slowly and thoroughly, until the resin and colorant are perfectly blended together. Read more about how to tint epoxy resin in our blog How To Color Clear Epoxy Resin.
How To Make Epoxy Resin Art For The First Time
Have you already starting envisioning a project or a design and the colors you might start with? We know just how special your first piece of epoxy resin artwork is. That’s why we've created a detailed 6-step guide explaining how to make resin art for the first time.
1: Prepare Your Work Area
When working with resin, it’s important that your workspace is clean, free of dust, and well-ventilated. The surface you’re working on should be protected with a plastic drop sheet and perfectly level so that the resin cures evenly. Protect the floor from resin drips with a drop sheet.
Ensure that all the tools you’ll need are on hand and that your piece is prepped and ready to go, before you measure and mix.
Consult the resin’s Safety Data Sheet to ensure you have the required Personal Protective Equipment for the resin you are using. ArtResin requires the use of disposable gloves, but some resin brands may require safety goggles and even respiratory protection. Stay safe and always check the SDS before you start!
2: Measure how much epoxy resin you need
Consult the instruction manual to determine the correct mixing ratio. Different brands of resin may have different mixing ratios so this is an important step. ArtResin epoxy resin, for example, has a 1:1 mixing ratio, measured by volume. This means you need equal amounts of resin (Part A) and hardener (Part B) mixed into a cup.
Wear disposable nitrile gloves to protect your skin before you measure and mix, and anytime you're handling wet resin tools or the resin bottles.
Measure accurately: Be aware that adding too much of either the resin or hardener will alter the chemical reaction and the mixture will not cure properly.
Use our resin calculator today!
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❌ What NOT to do: People often think they can speed up the 24-hour cure time by adding more hardener to the mixture. However, this throws off the delicate 1:1 mixing ratio, and your resin will not cure properly.
✅ What To Do: The best way to encourage a quicker cure is to increase the room temperature, since curing is accelerated by heat.
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3: Mix
While imagination and creativity are important, patience is a trait that will truly benefit epoxy resin artists and DIY creators.
Mix the resin and hardener slowly until they are well blended. It's important to stir slowly to avoid introducing excess bubbles into the resin mixture.
Mixing time can vary from brand to brand, so check the instruction manual before you start. ArtResin epoxy, for example, needs to be mixed for at least 3 minutes.
Scrape the sides and bottom of the mixing vessel as you stir. Improperly mixed resin left on the sides and bottom will not catalyze properly, leaving sticky spots that will not harden.
You will likely see some bubbles in the resin mixture, even if you've mixed slowly. Not to worry - these bubbles will be taken care of after the resin is poured.
4: Resin Pouring For Beginners
Next, pour the resin mixture over your artwork. Ensure your piece is dry and dust-free before you pour. If you’re working with ArtResin®, you’ll have about 40 minutes of working time before the resin becomes too thick to pour and spread.
Guide the resin into place using a flat object like a plastic spreader. ArtResin is self-levelling and will start to spread on its own, but spreading it will ensure the entire surface is coated evenly.
You can deal with the edges of your piece in a few different ways. Check out our video showing how to apply epoxy resin to the edges.
- Protect the sides with tape, guiding the resin to edges so that the ArtResin sits domed on top of their piece. Remove the tape at the 24 hour mark to reveal the clean sides.
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Tape off the underside of the piece and allow the resin to drip over the sides, spreading it smooth with a foam brush or a gloved finger. Check out our blog showing 5 different ways to finish the edges of your resin art.
5: Finish Your Epoxy Resin Work
A quick pass with a flame torch will remove air bubbles with ease. Many of these tiny air bubbles will pop on their own but an Artist Torch will provide a flawless, glass-like surface.
Use a toothpick to pick out any bits of dust or hair that may have settled into the wet resin. Looking at the spread out resin under a light source helps you see any imperfections. Your smartphone’s flashlight is a perfect tool for this!
Place a protective covering over your art piece, such as a cardboard box or plastic tote. Ensure the cover is clean and within easy reach before you start to resin. This way, you won't have to leave your wet piece while you search for one.
6: Wait For The Resin Artwork To Cure
Allow the resin art to sit for at least 24 hours in a dust-free space while it cures.
In approximately 3-5 hours, the resin will be thick and tacky and, at this point, you'll be able to pour a second layer if you wish. Read more about the 3 different ways to get a thick layer of resin.
Within 24 hours, the resin will be dry to the touch and 95% cured. After 24 hours, you may display your piece or hang it on the wall without worry. It will be fully cured within 72 hours, at which point you may safely ship it. Read more about how to safely pack resin art for shipping.
For more information and valuable tips on how to make resin art for beginners, check out our blog Resin Art How-To.
5 Tips To Avoid Bubbles In Epoxy Resin
Bubbles can be one of the biggest challenges when working with epoxy resin.
There are 4 main reasons why you may experience bubbles in your resin:
- Not following best epoxy resin practices
- Cold temperatures
- Pouring too thick
- The artwork may be releasing trapped air (this is often the case with paper and organic materials like wood, leaves, dried flowers etc.)
Follow these guidelines to help prevent air bubbles when using resin:
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Use a Torch - A torch is the most efficient way to remove bubbles. The flame heats the resin surface up instantly, thinning the resin out and allowing bubbles to escape.
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Work in a Warm Environment - Epoxy resin loves warmth so make sure your workspace is slightly warmer than room temperature (75-85F or 24-30C) for a resin that with a crystal clear appearance and honey-like consistency, that pours and spreads with ease. You’ll know the temperature is too cold when the resin is thick, cloudy, and has a milky appearance from thousands of micro bubbles that you’ll never be able to torch out.
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Pour in ⅛” layers - If the resin is poured thicker than 1/8", bubbles won't be able to escape to surface, and they'll end up curing in your resin.
💡Tip: For a thicker coat of epoxy resin, pour in layers, waiting 3-5 hours between each one. Find more information on epoxy resin layers here.
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Seal over natural objects - To prevent natural objects from breathing and releasing air bubbles into the resin, seal these items with a brush on or a spray sealant and allow to dry before applying epoxy resin. Read more about which sealant types work best.
Read more about preventing resin bubbles in our blog Tips To Prevent Resin Bubbles.
How Easy Is DIY Resin Art?
Epoxy resin art might seem intimidating at first, but once you try it, you'll soon see why it's such a fun, creative hobby for artists, crafters and DIY enthusiasts. In fact, after you get the hang of it, you'll feel inspired to attempt larger projects and try out some new techniques!
At ArtResin, we've created a huge epoxy resin art library, full of valuable and comprehensive information and tips, in addition to a YouTube channel with over 750 resin art tutorials and interesting how-to videos.
With a bit of practice, you'll soon be measuring, mixing and pouring resin like a pro!
Top 10 Easy Resin Art Project Ideas For Beginners
Feeling inspired to try making resin art for yourself? From coating artwork to pouring coasters, flow art, trinket dishes and more, there are so many ways to get creative with epoxy resin!
Heres a list of our top 10 creative resin art ideas, perfect for beginners and experienced resin artists alike. Which one do you want to try first?
1: Petri Dish Art
Petri Dish Art is made by encapsulating alcohol ink in ArtResin within a reusable silicone mold. The ink pushes through the resin creating vibrant ribbons and colorful "petrified" squiggles.
Read how to resin petri dish art.
2: Bottle Cap Coaster
Instead of putting a cap on your beer, why not put your beer on a cap?
Coasters come in many different designs and colors, but one that’s guaranteed to catch everyone’s eye is a resin coaster filled with your favorite beer caps. If you are not a fan of beer, use your favorite soft drink caps.
Read how to resin bottle caps.
3: Flow Art Tray
Let it flow!
Spruce up an inexpensive serving tray with some tinted ArtResin! They are functional, beautiful, and a great conversation piece.
Read how to make resin flow art.
4: Puzzle
Puzzles are fun, beautiful, and do not need to be disassembled! Simply choose a puzzle that you’d love to hang on your wall and coat it in ArtResin so you can enjoy it long after you put in that final, satisfying piece.
Read how to resin a puzzle.
5: Add A Resin Accent
Take an existing or a unique piece of artwork and add an ArtResin “accent” to it.
Select a small or big portion of the piece and embellish it with resin to provide some extra oomph. Not only is it shiny and smooth, but it adds depth to an otherwise flat piece.
6: Upgrade Your Art
Upgrade a piece of art by adding a little paint or a shiny coat of resin! It's a great option when you find a piece that's *almost* perfect, but just needs a little something extra.
7: Charcuterie Board
It's easy to see why charcuterie boards are so popular among those who love to entertain!
A charcuterie platter is a show-stopper that's simple to prepare, delivering big on both flavor and looks - especially when you have a gorgeous piece of wood as your starting point. Now, making your own custom, food safe charcuterie board is easier than you think.
Read how to resin a charcuterie board.
8: Crayon Art
Crayon art is so satisfying and fun that you may never stop creating these colorful art pieces. A rainbow of color is at your disposal to melt and design. Adding a little ArtResin pop is also a nice touch to set your work apart from the rest.
Read how to resin a pencil crayon.
9: Jewelry Pendants
Sometimes you just want to make something simple and small to level up your outfit. Jewelry pendants are a perfect way to show the world your creative talent and unique flair.
10: Trinket Dish
Where do you put your change? Or your earrings? Or paper clips?
Creating your own trinket dish is fun, easy and so uniquely stylized that you’ll find yourself placing them all over your home or office. It's functional art!
Read how to resin trinket dish.
For more information on what products to use, or how to make these ideas a reality, check out our detailed guide, “Top Ten Easy Resin Art Projects & Ideas.” Or watch our YouTube tutorials below.
We hope you found this resin art guide for beginners informative and that it helped to explain and demystify what epoxy resin art is all about.
Like anything, practice makes perfect, but we hope you feel encouraged to try a resin project out for yourself. Before you know it, you'll be wondering why you didn't do it sooner!
Interested to know what resin art sells the best and where to sell resin art?
Leave your questions and comments below. We’re more than happy to help answer questions and hear your feedback!
ArtResin: Made For Artists, By Artists
@carolynjoeart Is Our Instagram Winner!
Congratulations to Carolyn Joe Daniel, our latest Instagram winner! Based in Dallas, TX, Carolyn creates large-scale colorful abstracts with acrylic washes and resin: "I love drips & spills and paint that takes days to dry. It’s life-giving and brings me joy."
Carolyn majored in painting and print-making at Wake Forest University, curated at art galleries in Sydney, Australia and even spent 2 years at culinary school, but her greatest joy is painting abstracts, seascapes and modern portraiture in her home studio: “Painting has been a 25 year-long, colorful ribbon tying together most of my memories…”
Carolyn first learned to paint in oils but because of its longer dry time and the toxic solvents and mediums, she made the transition to water based acrylic paint. After discovering resin, Carolyn fell in love with the glossy dimension it gives to her work and that it helps to preserve and protect it.
Carolyn works with designers and private collectors for commissioned projects and licenses her art to several retailers: "My art has been adapted for yoga pants, rain boots, sports water bottles, calendars/journals as well as large scale commercial wall coverings for retail, hotels, hospital and office spaces."
Above all else, Carolyn hopes "to share my love for painting and the momentary joy color can bring to anyone passing by."
Giclee prints of Carolyn's work can be purchased on her website. Original paintings are available at Maestri Gallery in Dallas and at Carolyn’s studio by appointment. Her work can also be found at several retailers.
Visit her website: www.carolynjoe.com
Congratulations on your win, Carolyn!
To celebrate our amazing resin artists, every month we send out a 32 oz kit to a couple of folks who have tagged us on Instagram—and then we share their work with the world!
Don't forget, tag YOUR ArtResin work with @art_resin on Instagram, and YOU could be our next winner!!
ArtResin: Made For Artists, By Artists.
10 Ways A Goal Can Make You A Better Artist
Sometimes, the most challenging part of being an artist can simply be finding time to create. Between work, family and household obligations, freeing up space in a jam-packed schedule can seem downright impossible.
But what if it is possible?
What if, with some planning and intention, you can make creativity more routine and reap all the positive side effects that go along making art?
Like many of us, ArtResin co-founder Rebecca Zak had the best of intentions when she set her New Year's resolution this past January. Her goal was to create 52 paintings in 2022: as of May, her count was at zero.
Rebecca says, "I love to paint, it's something that really means a lot to me and that's why I made the goal. So I guess I had a reckoning with myself last week and I said 'Am I doing this or not?'" Rebecca wanted to be able to look back on 2022 and see that she'd been productive in a way that made her heart happy, so she started her own art challenge.
Whether you've got a specific goal in mind, like Rebecca, or you just want to make more art, here are 10 ways a goal and a timeline can help you get there:
- It encourages you to prioritize time for art.
- It can break a creative block.
- It will keep you on track.
- It creates a new habit.
- It helps improve your artistic skills.
- It can help you focus.
- It holds you accountable.
- It helps you finish projects.
- It gives you a huge sense of satisfaction.
- It has the potential to open up new possibilities.
After establishing a few guidelines to keep her on track, Rebecca invited the ArtResin community along for the ride to hold her accountable.
Here's how she's going to do it:
How does a goal help you make more art?
Let's be honest: we could all do with a little nudge from time to time. Setting a clear, structured goal with a timeline attached gives us incentive to make it happen. Whether you're just getting started or you're starting all over again, here are 10 ways giving yourself a challenge can help achieve the goal of making more art:
1. It prioritizes creative time:
Whether it's an hour a day or an hour a week is entirely up to you, but dedicating specific, realistic time blocks in your schedule is key. A clearly defined schedule helps you identify (and say no) to less important things in order to focus on what makes you happy.
2. It can break a creative block:
An art challenge is the perfect opportunity to explore project ideas you've been thinking about, but have never put into action. However, if too many choices cause option paralysis or, conversely, you find yourself staring blankly at the canvas, a notebook with some prompts can help you get inspired. You may find that one of your ideas acts as a springboard to create an entirely new project or series!3. A plan keeps you on track:
Having the art materials you'll need on hand as well as a dedicated space to work in is just as important as a game plan and a schedule. Embarking on an art challenge is an effective way to keep track of all those moving parts which, in turn, helps to keep you on track. Plan to succeed and you will succeed!4. Creativity will become routine:
Consistently making time for your art will create a new habit, which will eventually make creativity a routine part of your life. The more often you prioritize your art, the easier it gets. Over time, you'll move seamlessly from one finished project right onto the start of the next. Yay for more art!5. It will improve your skills:
The more you do something, the better you'll get! An art challenge provides a great chance to focus on areas you'd like to improve or to try out a brand new medium or style altogether. Getting outside your comfort zone can help expand your skillset.
6. It allows you to focus on your art:
The idea of finding time for art can seem difficult because we tend to live in a state of constant multi-tasking. Studies show that focusing on one single task at a time can increase productivity by up to 80%. Establishing dedicated creative time and working without distraction allows you to focus all of your energy on your art.
7. Sharing your goals holds you accountable:
Whether you join an online art challenge or start your own and invite others to take part, sharing your goals with others helps to keep you accountable. Don't forget to involve your family and friends so they can help support your efforts - you might even inspire them to get creative too!
8. An art challenge allows you to finish projects:
Sometimes knowing we can't finish a project means it's just easier not to start in the first place. An art challenge not only provides consistent, dedicated creative time to start and finish a piece, but it also gives you the opportunity to finish up artwork that needs to be completed.
9. It gives you an immense satisfaction:
When we complete a task or a project, our brain releases the feel-good neurotransmitter dopamine, which is why you feel a rush of happiness. The satisfaction from finishing a piece gives you motivation to move onto the next. When you reach your goal and see the results of your efforts, you can relive those feelings of joy and accomplishment over and over again.
10. An art challenge opens up new possibilities:
Share your goals and your work online through your social media, website, or blog. Engage your audience and bring them along on the journey with you. Create a hashtag for your challenge and use it to attract new followers, new fans and potentially, new customers!
How are art challenge guidelines helpful?
Establishing a few guidelines before you start an art challenge helps to create structure and removes the need to make decisions. This means you can spend your energy creating art instead of deciding what to make or whether your piece counts towards your challenge goal.
Feel free to tailor the rules to what works best for you, but these are the guidelines that Rebecca put into place:
1. Size Doesn't Matter
Variety is good: the painting can be a large panel or it can be a mini canvas, as long as there are a good variety of sizes in the mix.
2. Variety of styles:
A challenge is a great opportunity to play around and try different styles and mediums. Get out of your comfort zone and explore something new!
3. Diptychs and triptychs count as multiple paintings:
A diptych or a triptych are made up of 2 or 3 paintings, respectively, but function as one. Rebecca established that each component will stand on its own and count as a single painting.
4. Family can help:
If your kids want to help you paint something for their room, or you want to create a joint piece of art with your spouse, Rebecca agrees that not only is this allowed, but should be encouraged. 
5. Finishing abandoned art counts:
If you're inspired to finish a painting that has already been started, it counts as a contribution towards the challenge. In fact, this is a perfect opportunity to finish up abandoned projects.
Making art is good for the mind, body and soul. All you need to do is just make art - and the more you do, the better your art will become and the better you'll feel.
Whether you do it on your own or with a group, art challenges are fun and inspiring. Are you up for the challenge?
ArtResin: Made For Artists, By Artists.
@saltwoodstudio Is Our Instagram Winner!
Congratulations to Richmond, Virginia artist Chris Lombard, our latest Instagram winner! An artist proficient in multiple mediums, Chris creates commissioned acrylic paintings and pencil drawings. He also applies his digital design and wood working knowledge to create gorgeous, laser cut 3D maps, which he embellishes with resin.
With a BFA in Painting and Printmaking from Virginia Commonwealth University, Chris has been drawing, painting and working with wood since he was a child: "I have always had a strong desire to create. It’s like an itch that needs to be scratched. I use art to focus my energy into a new challenge."
Over the past decade, he's been focusing on digital design and, most recently, has started to incorporate laser technology and resin into his work. Chris says: ""About a year ago, I was working on creating a piece of art of my hometown, Gloucester, VA which is on the water. I wanted to depict the water on a wooden map with something more tactile than just paint, and that’s what led me to using resin."
Chris has enjoyed the challenge of learning a new medium and feels that resin has provided even greater opportunity to create custom 3D maps for clients. He has found resin to be a perfect complement to his work: "Much of my art is centered around wind and water. I love the way resin can be manipulated to depict textures that reflect these natural elements."
Chris says: "My process varies depending on the type of commission I receive. For 3D maps, I typically start with an address and google maps to review the location. Then I will start creating a digital mock-up for my client. Once the digital design is approved, I will start running the design through my laser, followed up by painting and gluing. The final step involves pouring resin with one or multiple layers adding some paint if needed."
In addition to wood and digital design, Chris specializes in several mediums including acrylic paint and colored pencil. He says: "I am not a typical artist that focuses on one specific style and medium. I think when someone visits my website they begin to understand that pretty quickly. Any given week, I may be working on a color pencil pet portrait while running my laser for a wooden map. Sometimes I will be working on an acrylic painting and switch over to my computer or iPad to work on a digital design. Having multiple skill sets enables me to offer a variety of art to my clients.
"It is very rare that I turn down a commission; [they] are particularly challenging and fulfilling. Many of my commissions depict landscapes and places that hold sentimental value. I love helping a client preserve the memory of a special place in a piece of art."
Chris' work can be found on his website and on his Instagram page: "I use social media to showcase my art, but most of my sales come from my website and word of mouth."
Visit his website: saltwood.studio
Congratulations on your win, Chris!
To celebrate our amazing resin artists, every month we send out a 32 oz kit to a couple of folks who have tagged us on Instagram—and then we share their work with the world!
Don't forget, tag YOUR ArtResin work with @art_resin on Instagram, and YOU could be our next winner!!
ArtResin: Made For Artists, By Artists.
