Step-by-step to protect and enhance your photo art

Applying resin to a photograph is a popular technique for giving your images a professional, glossy, and highly durable finish. This guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring your photos are protected from scratches, moisture, and UV rays, while looking stunning. Whether you are preserving a memorable print or creating bespoke art, following these steps will help you achieve a flawless resin finish over your photographs.

What You’ll Need

• “Art Pro” – Clear Epoxy Resin for Artists and Surface Coating: Medium viscosity, clear resin ideal for smooth photo coatings
• “Icrystal” – Clear Epoxy Resin – Odourless Formula – Up to 1.5cm: Odourless, transparent resin especially suited to photo and craft applications
• Protective gloves and mixing utensils
• Flat, dust-free workspace
• Cups or containers for mixing
• Plastic sheet or disposable covering for your work area
• Spirit level (optional, but helps ensure even resin distribution)
• Masking tape (for edges and workspace)
• Acrylic spray sealant (particularly for inkjet prints)

Visual Inspiration: Resin-Finished Photographs

See how beautifully a resin finish enhances the depth and vibrancy of photographic art, creating a protective, glass-like surface that makes your images truly stand out. Notice the clarity and brilliance achievable with the right preparation and pouring technique.

Step 2: Protect Your Workspace and Level the Surface

Cover your work area with a disposable sheet or plastic mat to catch any drips. Set your photograph on raised supports (such as blocks or disposable cups) so the edges are accessible and resin can flow off cleanly if needed. Use a spirit level under your photo to ensure the surface is perfectly flat—this helps the resin spread evenly and prevents pooling to one side. Edge the photo with masking tape underneath if you want to avoid drips forming below the artwork.

Step 4: Pour and Spread the Resin Evenly

Slowly pour the mixed resin onto the centre of your sealed photograph. Allow it to spread out naturally, then use a gloved hand, spatula, or plastic spreader to gently guide the resin to the edges. The self-levelling nature of these resins makes it easy to cover the entire surface smoothly. If you notice bubbles, gently exhale over the surface or use a small handheld torch with caution—do not hold it too close or linger in one spot, as excessive heat can damage the photograph or resin surface.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Seal inkjet prints before applying resin to prevent ink bleeding. Avoid touching the surface during curing to keep the finish flawless. Work in a dust-free environment for a crystal-clear result. When mixing, don’t rush—proper blending and slow stirring result in fewer bubbles and better clarity. For edges that aren’t as smooth as desired, you can gently sand and polish them after the resin is fully cured.

Technique Demo: Pouring Resin over Prints

Watch step-by-step demonstrations of resin pouring, spreading, and bubble removal. Focus on slow, steady application and perfect environment setup for optimal results. Explore art resin options to match your project scale and finish quality.