Whether you’re a scale modeller, hobbyist, or professional designer, choosing the right resin is crucial to achieving precise detail, durability, and ease of use in your static models. This guide compares trusted polyurethane and epoxy resins to help you identify the best fit for your modelling and prototyping needs.

Overview: Comparing Resins for Static Model Making

Selecting the best resin depends on your intended use—whether it’s rapid casting, capturing intricate detail, or applying a flawless finish to 3D prints. Polyurethane resins deliver fast setting times and high detail for casting, while epoxy options excel in surface finishes and ease of use, especially for beginners and decorative applications.

Key differences to consider:

• Polyurethane resins (such as IWhite or Polyform) are ideal for rapid prototyping, offering fast curing and superb detail capture for casting models.
• Epoxy resins like 3D Finish and One-2-One excel in transparent, protective coatings for 3D prints and detailed decorative work.
• Consider working times, viscosity, mix ratios, and post-cure properties to match the resin with your exact modelling requirements.

See Resin Projects in Action

Curious how these resins perform? Browse gallery images to explore the stunning detail, finish, and versatility possible in static model making—from precision-cast figurines to glossy, coated 3D prints.

IWhite – Polyurethane Casting Resin for Fast, Detailed Model Making

IWhite – Polyurethane Casting Resin – White, Fast-Curing Two-Part System is engineered for rapid prototyping and model production. Its high fluidity and fast curing (just 30 minutes until demould) make it perfect for professionals and hobbyists aiming for precision and speed. IWhite is colourable in liquid form and can be painted when cured, giving you creative flexibility in model finishing. Its durability and ability to capture subtle mould textures set it apart for static models and handcrafted items.

• Fast-setting for efficient prototyping and model creation
• Colourable and paintable in liquid or cured state
• Captures fine details for accurate casting results
• Durable finish after full cure

Suited for: Professional model makers, resin crafters, rapid-prototyping specialists.

Polyform – Polyurethane Casting Resin for Prototyping and Small Batch Production

Polyform – Polyurethane Casting Resin – Beige stands out for its extremely fast cure (sets in about 5 minutes, ready for demoulding in 30 minutes) and is favoured by both hobbyists and small-scale manufacturers. This resin fills intricate silicone moulds impeccably, resulting in robust, detailed casts. The beige finish yields high wear resistance, making it optimal for objects that need to endure frequent handling or display. Note, Polyform is not suitable for colouring with dyes, so choose it for applications where the base hue suffices.

• Fast setting: Cures in about 5 minutes, ready to demould in 30
• High fluidity: Perfect for complex silicone moulds and fine detail
• Non-toxic: Safe to handle once cured
• Durable: Shore A 100 hardness for wear resistance

Suited for: Industrial designers, professional makers, and those needing speed.

3D Finish – Epoxy Resin for Flawless 3D Print Coatings

For finishing and protecting 3D printed static models, 3D Finish – Fast Coating Epoxy Resin for 3D Prints provides a non-drip, highly adhesive surface that cures within four hours at 20°C. It eliminates visible layer lines and provides a glossy, durable finish while preserving fine details. Suitable for PLA, ABS, and LAYWOOD prints, this resin is also polishable and paintable, making it ideal for static display pieces requiring a professional-looking surface. It also works for bonding and minor repairs.

• Accelerated 4-hour curing at 20°C
• Exceptional adhesion for popular 3D printing materials
• Detail-preserving formula that eliminates layer lines
• Polishable and paintable surface
• Versatile use for bonding and repairing 3D prints

Suited for: Hobbyists and professionals who 3D print static models for finishes and repairs.

One-2-One – Epoxy Resin for Handcraft and Decorative Features

One-2-One – Epoxy Resin for Handcraft, 1:1 Mixing Ratio offers beginner-friendly, non-toxic formulation with an easy 1:1 mixing ratio by volume. Its medium viscosity is ideal for cabochons, jewellery pieces, and fine decorative elements in static models. With a crystal-clear glossy finish, strong UV-resistance, and enhanced durability against scratches and moisture, One-2-One brings professional quality to artistic detail. Its user-friendly preparation makes it suited for both new and experienced crafters.

• Non-toxic formulation for safe crafting
• Crystal clear, super-glossy finish with high transparency
• UV filter providing excellent resistance to yellowing with a 10-year warranty
• Durable against scratches and moisture, ideal for long-lasting creations

Suited for: Beginners, jewellery makers, decorative artists, and detail-focused modellers.

Choosing the Right Resin for Your Static Model Project

When deciding between polyurethane and epoxy, consider your project’s unique needs. For rapid casting and fine detail, polyurethane options like IWhite and Polyform are ideal. If you’re finishing 3D prints, “3D Finish” offers fast, smooth coatings and additional repair capability. For intricate handcraft, encapsulation, or jewellery-style details in your static model, One-2-One provides a safe, user-friendly solution. Always check mix ratios, working times, and desired post-cure finishes to get the best results. Remember, temperature influences curing, and each resin varies in suitability for colouring, painting, and specific surface effects.

Expert Tips for Static Model Resin Selection

Always match resin to your workflow: For rapid projects, choose fast-setting polyurethane. For decorative finishes or handcraft, epoxy offers more flexibility and clarity. Test small batches to confirm suitability, especially if combining casting and coating steps in a single project.