Should You Seal Notes or Prints Before Resin Casting?

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Do I Need to Seal Notes or Prints Before Casting in Resin?

When embedding written notes or printed designs in resin, it’s vital to prepare your paper elements properly to avoid unsightly ink smudging and preserve their crispness. Here’s how best to safeguard your creative work before casting.

Why Sealing Is Essential

Paper—even glossy or high-quality stock—can absorb resin, which may cause ink and toner to bleed. This is especially true for handwritten notes or prints produced with certain inks. Sealing the paper with a clear acrylic spray forms a protective barrier, effectively preserving lettering and preventing the resin from seeping into the fibres.

How to Prepare Your Notes and Prints

Ensure your note or print is fully dry before sealing.
Lightly spray both sides with a clear acrylic lacquer, holding the can about 20-30cm away for an even coat.
Allow each side to dry thoroughly, and repeat the spray if needed for extra protection.
Handle the sealed piece carefully as you position it in the mould for casting.

For best results, use a resin designed for clarity and suitable thickness—products such as Trasparente clear epoxy resin are ideal for castings up to 2cm.

When This Matters Most

Sealing is particularly crucial when using inkjet or water-based pens, or when your project requires maximum clarity and a pristine finish. If you’re working with sentimental keepsakes or important messages, careful sealing protects against accidental ink movement during curing.

Related guides

How To Embed Writing In Resin

Preparing notes and prints by sealing them ensures your embedded writing stays vivid and protected in your resin artwork. For more guidance on the whole process, see our main guide on how to embed writing in resin.