Famous Jewelry Collections: THE BEADING GEM'S JOURNAL

Monday, August 29, 2011

THE BEADING GEM'S JOURNAL

How to Use Different Kinds of Resins for Jewelry Making

Posted: 29 Aug 2011 04:00 AM PDT

One of the easiest ways to create a pendant is to incorporate paper or even beads, fibers, glitter and small findings to a purchased bezel which is then filled with some sort of resin. Resin can also be used to coat and seal.

Resin is definitely a popular trend. If you are wondering which resin or which types are safer to use, wonder no more!

Ornamentea's useful video overview covers how to use 3 types of resin which are all safe to use.

AMAZING GLAZE by Judikins is a dimensional embossing powder which is scooped into the bezel and then melted in a toaster oven. This one works well for kids although adult supervision will be required for correct handling of hot bezels. It can be mixed with other embossing powders for different colors and effects.

DIAMOND GLAZE is a versatile dimensional adhesive. It's water soluble so there are no nasty fumes. It just needs time to set. I really like the nozzle which makes application so easy.

Below is a my mosaic tile and glitter design using diamond glaze. According to the manufacturer, it can be mixed with dye based inks, water colors and so forth.

ECOPOXY CRAFT RESIN is a 2-part resin which is harder and more glass-like than the resins above. It's actually made from organic materials such as soy beans and peanuts - it's not allergenic in the final resin form but susceptible individuals might wish to avoid working with this product.

Like Diamond Glaze, it's solvent free. It is heat activated but the heat source is internal - from the chemical reaction between the resin and the hardener when mixed together.

Ecopoxy Craft Resin can also be used as a waterproof layer - just paint it on! Test for potential bleeds first! What's interesting about this resin product is the ratio flexibility ranging from 2:1 (resin to hardener), 3:1 and 4: 1 depending on how much doming one wants.

Also by Ornamentea :

How to Add Inclusions to Ecopoxy Craft Resin

How to Add Color Tints to Ecopoxy Craft Resin

ICE RESIN is a rising favorite of jewelry artisans because it dries ice-clear, self-domes, has a glassy finish and will not fade. It is a 2-part epoxy resin which is non-toxic and durable when cured. It can be colored and used as a casting agent. Many artisans like to use it as an adhesive and sealant.

It's safe enough to use indoors. According to the MSDS, you'll have to inhale it after heating at a high temperature to be of a concern! No issues either with skin contact unless you are going to be using buckets of the stuff. Bear in mind there are always a few people who will be allergic to any given substance.

Art Beads's How to Use Ice Resin video is very informative - it gives the curing times including how to fast track it. If you are using Mod Podge to seal papers, make sure you use multiply applications or the colors might bleed.