Epoxy vs UV Resin for Cabochons – Which Should You Choose?

Should I Use Epoxy or UV Resin for Cabochons?

Choosing the right resin for cabochon making can make a significant difference to your final results. Both epoxy and UV resin have their strengths, depending on your project requirements and workflow.

Epoxy Resin: Ideal for Size and Durability

Epoxy resin remains the top choice for crafting larger or thicker cabochons. Its reliable self-levelling properties and strength offer a robust, glass-like finish with excellent clarity. Epoxy resins such as “One-2-One” Epoxy Resin are easy to mix (1:1 by volume) and handle intricate designs. While epoxy takes longer to cure—often needing several hours to overnight before demoulding—its performance with deeper pours and inclusion of delicate items like dried flowers can’t be matched by UV resin.

UV Resin: Fast and Convenient for Small Cabochons

UV resin offers an instant solution for those who want speed or are working with smaller, thinner cabochons. With curing times as fast as 2–3 minutes under a UV lamp, products like “UV–Creation” Fast Acrylic Resin are popular among makers who create fine pieces, add-on charms, or need quick turnarounds. Its one-component, no-mix formula is mess-free, but it is best suited for shallow casts, as UV rays don’t penetrate thick layers effectively.

When This Matters

Choose epoxy if you need strong, clear cabochons over 3mm thick, want to embed objects, or prioritise durability.
Choose UV resin for slim cabochons, speedy results, or when working in layers.

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How To Make Resin Cabochons

Your choice between epoxy and UV resin will depend on your cabochon size, timeline, and desired finish. Explore our full advice on how to make resin cabochons to get the best results every time.