Clear casting resin is a versatile epoxy or polyester-based material for creating transparent, bubble-free castings and embeddings in various artistic and industrial applications. With its low viscosity and ability to cure into a durable, glass-like finish, clear casting resin has become famous for projects ranging from jewellery making to river tables and decorative objects.

Epoxy Resin Fundamentals

Due to its exceptional properties, clear cast 20 is a versatile thermosetting polymer used in several industries. It comprises epoxide monomers that polymerize with a curing agent or hardener, forming a solid, durable three-dimensional network. Epoxy resins like clear cast 20 offer high strength, excellent adhesion to various substrates, chemical resistance, low shrinkage, and electrical insulation properties. Due to their strong bond to wood, metal, glass, and concrete, epoxy resins find applications in coatings, adhesives, electronics, composites, and structural repairs. While epoxy resins offer numerous advantages, they can be brittle and moisture-sensitive, addressed through various formulations and additives.

Benefits of Clear Casting 20

Clear casting 20 resin offers several key advantages, making it a popular choice for various projects and applications. Here are the main benefits of using clear casting resin:

• Optical clarity: Clear casting 20 provide exceptional transparency, allowing for crystal-clear results in castings and coatings.
• Durability and strength: Once cured, clear casting resins offer high strength and durability, making them resistant to impacts, scratches, and wear.
• Versatility in applications: These resins can be used for various projects, including jewellery making, art pieces, furniture, and industrial applications.
• Chemical resistance: Clear epoxy resins, in particular, offer excellent resistance to chemicals, acids, and solvents.
• Ease of use: Most clear casting resins have simple mixing ratios and can be easily coloured or modified with additives.
• Glossy finish: Clear casting 20 resins typically cure to a high-gloss, smooth surface that enhances the appearance of the finished product.

Mixing Ratios and Techniques

Clear casting resins typically require precise mixing ratios and techniques to achieve optimal results. Proper mixing is crucial to avoid issues like tacky surfaces or incomplete curing. Experts recommend mixing slowly for at least 2-3 minutes to minimize air bubbles and scraping the sides and bottom of the container thoroughly. Some techniques to reduce bubbles include warming the resin before use, pouring in thin layers, and using a torch or heat gun to pop surface bubbles shortly after pouring.

Popular Resin Applications

Clear casting resin is versatile in various creative and functional applications. Here are some popular uses for clear casting resin:

• Jewellery making: Artists create unique pendants, earrings, and bracelets by embedding objects or colourants in resin.
• River tables and furniture: Woodworkers use resin to fill gaps in wood slabs, creating striking “river” effects in tables and other furniture pieces.
• Decorative objects and paperweights: Resin is used to cast small sculptures, coasters, and paperweights, often incorporating decorative elements
• Coating and protecting artwork: Artists apply resin as a protective, high-gloss finish on paintings and mixed media pieces.
• Lamps and lighting fixtures: Resin castings are incorporated into unique, translucent lamp designs.
• Clock faces and decorative timepieces: Resin creates custom clock faces with embedded elements.

These applications showcase clear casting resin’s versatility in artistic and functional contexts.

Selecting Your Casting Resin

Here are key considerations and tips for choosing the suitable clear casting 20 resin:

• Project type: Determine if you need a casting resin for deep pours or a coating resin for surface applications.
• Curing time: Consider your project’s working time and full cure time.
• Viscosity: Low-viscosity resins are better for detailed moulds, while higher-viscosity resins are suitable for coating applications.
• Clarity: Look for water-clear formulas that cure without bubbles for optimal transparency.
• Mixing ratio: Consider ease of use, with many resins offering simple mixing ratios.
• Safety: Opt for non-toxic, low-odour resins, especially for indoor use.

Resin Casting Essentials

Working with clear casting resin reclear quires careful preparation and technique to achieve optimal results. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you complete your resin casting project:

Safety precautions

• Work in a well-ventilated area
• Wear protective gloves, safety glasses

Necessary equipment

• Mixing cups and stir sticks
• Accurate measuring tools
• Mould release agent
• Heat gun or torch for bubble removal

Mixing and pouring techniques

1. Measure resin and hardener according to the manufacturer’s instructions
2. Mix slowly and thoroughly for 2-3 minutes, scraping sides and bottom of the container
3. Pour the mixed resin in a thin, steady stream to minimize bubble formation

Dealing with bubbles

• Warm resin components before mixing to reduce viscosity
• Use a heat gun to pop bubbles after pouring
• For deep pours, consider vacuum degassing

Curing process

• Allow the resin to cure in a clean environment
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommended cure time, typically 24-72 hours
• For optimal results, wait 5-7 days before heavy use or polishing

Advanced Resin Techniques

Clear casting resin offers a wide range of creative possibilities beyond basic casting. Here are some advanced techniques to elevate your resin projects:

• Experiment with layering different colours for unique effects
• Create marbled effects by swirling colours together
• Creating layers and depth: Pour the resin into multiple thin layers, allowing each to cure partially
• Embed objects between layers for a 3D effect
• Use clear and tinted layers to create depth and dimension
• Incorporating other materials: Seal porous materials like wood or fabric with a thin layer of resin before embedding
• Use metal leaf or foils for metallic accents
• Embed natural elements like flowers or leaves (ensure they are completely dry)
• Polishing and finishing techniques: Sand-cured resin with progressively finer grits
• Use a polishing compound for a high-gloss finish
• Apply a UV-resistant clear coat for added protection on outdoor pieces

Always work in a well-ventilated area and follow proper safety precautions when using resin and associated materials.

Preserving Resin Creations

Proper care is vital for preserving the longevity of resin creations. Here are some critical tips for cleaning, protecting, and preserving your resin projects:

• Cleaning methods: Use a soft, lint-free cloth with mild soap and water
• For tougher stains, isopropyl alcohol can be effective.
• Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners
• Avoiding scratches and damage: Use coasters or felt pads under resin items to prevent scratching surfaces.
• Handle resin pieces carefully to avoid impacts or drops.
• Store resin jewellery in soft pouches or separate compartments to prevent scratching
• Long-term preservation tips: Keep resin creations out of direct sunlight to prevent yellowing
• Store resin pieces in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture damage

Following these maintenance and care guidelines can help ensure your resin creations remain beautiful and durable for years.

Creative Resins’ Offer: Clear Cast 20 with 25% discount

We at Creative Resins offer a high-quality clear casting resin called Clear Cast 20 at competitive prices. This versatile product suits various applications, from jewellery making to furniture design. It is highly transparent and non-yellowing and can be coloured using Creative Resins pigments. It can cast up to 20mm thick in a single application while exhibiting good degassing properties. Don’t miss out on this exceptional clear casting resin. Call us now to learn more about Clear Cast 20 and place your order. Take your resin projects to the next level with Clear Cast 20!