UV vs Epoxy Resin for Cameos: Which to Use?

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UV vs Epoxy Resin: Which Is Best for Making Cameos?

When selecting a resin for making cameos, the choice between UV and epoxy resin greatly impacts your results. Both types have their strengths depending on your desired finish and working style.

Quick Curing for Fine Reliefs: UV Resin

UV resin hardens rapidly—often in just a few minutes under a UV light—making it perfect for cameos created in thin, detailed layers or for raised surface effects. Its fast set time is especially useful when building up layered reliefs, as you can cure each section quickly before moving to the next.

A product such as “Fairy Wings” – UV Resin for Volumetric Reliefs, Dual Colour, 30ml is ideal for crisp, intricate cameo features and works well with polymer clay bases.

Depth and Detail with Epoxy Resin

Epoxy resin offers a much longer working window, which is beneficial for more complex or deeper cameo designs. Its self-levelling nature helps achieve a clear, glass-like finish in moulds up to about 1 cm deep. If your cameo project calls for multiple colours or layers in one pour, the slower curing lets you manipulate pigments and embed items with care.

For elaborate or thicker moulds, consider “Liquidissima” epoxy resin, known for its clarity and longer open time.

When This Matters Most

Choose UV resin when speed and high relief detail are essential, or when working in stages.
Pick epoxy resin if your design is deep, intricate, or you want more time to adjust elements.

Related guides

How To Make Cameos With Resin

Your choice between UV and epoxy resin should match the cameo style and working pace that suits you best. For more in-depth cameo-making tips, see our full guide on how to make cameos with resin.