How to print in resin?
Explore resins for 3D printing, coating, and artistic finishes
Whether you’re a hobbyist, a professional 3D printer, or an artist looking to create flawless resin pieces, choosing the right resin is essential for outstanding print results and brilliant finishes. This guide compares key resin types, explains their best use cases, and helps you select the perfect product for every stage of resin printing—from coating 3D models to high-gloss artistic finishes.
Choosing the Right Resin for Printing and Finishing
The world of resin printing offers a range of epoxy resin formulations designed for different tasks: post-print coatings to reinforce 3D models, medium viscosity resins for creative handcraft, and ultra-high viscosity resins for precise artistic control. The ideal choice depends on your project, surface, and desired effects—like glossiness, clarity, or scratch resistance.
- Fast-curing resins suit those seeking quick project turnaround, especially in 3D print finishing.
- Medium viscosity resins are perfect for beginners focused on easy mixing and all-round crafting versatility.
- Ultra-high viscosity resins unlock complex artistic designs, making it easier to create crisp lines and detailed effects.
Key differences also lie in mixing ratios (by volume or weight), UV resistance, and compatibility with various surfaces—be it PLA, ABS, or panels and artistic works.
Visual Comparisons of Print and Coating Resins
See side-by-side results of coated 3D prints and artistic surfaces using different ResinPro resins. Notice the clarity, gloss, and detail definition across various materials, including PLA models and art panels. High-viscosity resins provide well-defined lines in resin art, while fast-curing coatings excel for 3D print finishing.
3D Finish – Fast Coating Epoxy Resin for 3D Prints
The “3D Finish” – Fast Coating Epoxy Resin for 3D Prints is purpose-built for anyone needing a robust, glossy coating on PLA, ABS, or LAYWOOD 3D prints. Its non-drip formula preserves even fine details, eliminates layer lines, and delivers a seamless finish. With an accelerated 4-hour curing at 20°C and exceptional adhesion for popular 3D printing materials, “3D Finish” is ideal for rapid prototyping and final presentation. It’s also polishable and paintable—great for creating professional-looking models and repairs.
One-2-One – Easy Mixing Resin for Handcraft and Jewellery
For handcraft enthusiasts and beginners, the “One-2-One” – Epoxy Resin for Handcraft, 1:1 Mixing Ratio offers foolproof mixing: simply combine equal volumes of resin and hardener. This medium viscosity resin produces a non-toxic formulation for safe crafting and a crystal clear, super-glossy finish with high transparency. Its built-in UV filter providing excellent resistance to yellowing with a 10-year warranty ensures durable results for jewellery, cabochons, and decorative finishing projects.
Art Pro – Clear Epoxy Resin for Artistic Surface Coating
The “Art Pro” – Clear Epoxy Resin for Artists and Surface Coating is tailored for artists aiming for professional, glass-like coatings on trays, coasters, or art panels. Its exceptional clarity for high-gloss, transparent finishes and durable, scratch-resistant surface with UV protection make it perfect for those seeking a lasting, vibrant presentation. “Art Pro” features an easy 3:2 mixing ratio for simple, reliable results and a dense, non-drip formula with 12–24h cure time, perfect for precise, even coats.
Art Pro Deluxe – Ultra-High Viscosity Resin for Detailed Control
If your focus is on detailed resin art, the “Art Pro Deluxe” – Ultra-High Viscosity Epoxy Resin for Artists sets a new benchmark. Its ultra-high viscosity for precise line control and creative freedom prevents colour leaks, allowing you to create crisp, stunning effects such as ocean waves or geode layers. The glossy, self-levelling surface with high scratch resistance—ideal for finish layers, combined with powerful UV filters provide 10-year warranty against yellowing, aims for gallery-quality results in every pour. It is safe, non-toxic, and suitable even for furniture and panel finishes.
Tips for Selecting and Using Epoxy Resins in 3D and Artistic Printing
When choosing an epoxy resin for printing or finishing, always consider your project’s substrate (PLA, ABS, wood), your desired finish (glossy, matte, textured), and the working environment temperature. Follow manufacturer-recommended mixing ratios and curing instructions for the best results. For 3D printing applications, ensure your print is fully clean, oil- and dust-free before coating. For artistic pours, opt for higher viscosity resins, like “Art Pro Deluxe”, to maintain sharp details in complex designs. And if you’re new to resin, start with easy-mix systems like “One-2-One” for less margin of error.
"3D Finish" – Fast Coating Epoxy Resin for 3D PrintsPrice range: £13.95 through £19.95"3D Finish" offers a non-drip coating suitable for enhancing hobbies and professional 3D printing with detail preservation.
"One-2-One" – Epoxy Resin for Handcraft, 1:1 Mixing RatioPrice range: £15.95 through £59.95"One-2-One" is a medium viscosity epoxy resin suitable for beginners and experienced crafters, designed for safe, clear, and glossy handcraft…
"Art Pro" – Clear Epoxy Resin for Artists and Surface CoatingPrice range: £19.95 through £267.95Art Pro clear epoxy resin is suitable for artists and crafters seeking glass-like finishes and durable surface coatings.
"Art Pro Deluxe" – Ultra-High Viscosity Epoxy Resin for ArtistsPrice range: £35.95 through £302.45Art Pro Deluxe is an ultra-high viscosity epoxy resin designed for precise control in resin art, suitable for detailed artistic projects under the…
Frequently Asked Questions
How do mixing ratios differ between these resins?
3D Finish uses 100A:50B by volume, One-2-One is 1:1 by volume, Art Pro is 3:2 by weight, and Art Pro Deluxe follows high viscosity standards.
Which resin is recommended for enhancing 3D printed models?
3D Finish is specially formulated for 3D printed models and offers quick curing and strong adhesion to common print substrates.
When should you use medium versus high viscosity resin?
Use medium viscosity for general crafting and coatings; opt for high viscosity for intricate line work and detailed resin art.
Do these resins provide UV protection to prevent yellowing?
Art Pro and Art Pro Deluxe feature powerful UV filters designed to preserve clarity and resist yellowing for at least ten years.
Is Art Pro suitable for large surface coatings like countertops?
Art Pro is commonly used for worktops, trays, and panels when applied in layers over 1.5mm thick.
Are these epoxy resins safe to handle at home?
Yes, many are non-toxic and designed for safe use, but always wear gloves and work in a ventilated area.
Can these resins be used for repairing 3D prints?
"3D Finish" is specifically suitable for bonding and repairing printed components as well as providing a protective coating.
Is Art Pro Deluxe appropriate for use on vertical furniture panels?
Yes, it can be applied to vertical surfaces like furniture and panels by brush or roller, offering excellent control.
Google
