What You’ll Need

• “Icrystal” – Clear Epoxy Resin – Odourless Formula – Up to 1.5cm – best for high-gloss, durable coatings.
• “EpoxyFood” – Certified Clear Food Contact Epoxy Resin for Coating – recommended if your project may come into contact with food.
• “Trasparente” – Multipurpose Clear Epoxy Resin for Casting – Up to 2cm – ideal for deeper pours and thick coatings.
• “Art Pro” – Clear Epoxy Resin for Artists and Surface Coating – designed for surface coatings and artistic projects.
• Photograph printed on suitable paper (laser prints are best; avoid inkjet unless sealed).
• Plywood, MDF, or sturdy board for mounting (optional).
• PVA or archival glue for sealing photos.
• Nitrile gloves and protective mask.
• Mixing cups and stir sticks.
• Spirit level for levelling your work surface.
• Masking tape and a plastic drop cloth.

Getting Ready for Resin Coating

Lay out all your materials in advance and protect your workspace with a drop cloth. Make sure your surface is completely level before starting—this is key for an even resin finish and to prevent pooling in one area.

Step 1: Prepare Your Work Area and Materials

Choose a well-ventilated, dust-free space with a level work surface. Cover the area with a plastic drop cloth to protect against spills. Ensure all equipment is to hand before beginning. Always work in a dust-free environment to avoid particles settling on the resin surface during curing. Have gloves and protective gear ready for safe handling throughout the process.

Step 2: Mount and Seal Your Photograph

Mount your photograph onto a rigid backing such as plywood or MDF using archival glue or PVA. Ensure no air bubbles are trapped beneath the image. Let the adhesive dry completely. Seal your printed photograph thoroughly—especially crucial for inkjet prints, which may bleed when exposed to resin. Apply a thin layer of PVA or clear acrylic sealer over the entire photo and the exposed edges. Allow to dry fully before proceeding.

Step 3: Mix and Pour the Resin

Measure the required amount of transparent resin according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Mix slowly and thoroughly in a clean cup to minimise air bubbles, scraping the sides and base as you stir. Pour resin slowly and evenly over the centre of the mounted photo. Let it flow to the edges, using a stick or gloved finger to guide it if needed. If you require extra clarity and odourless application, use “Icrystal” – Clear Epoxy Resin – Odourless Formula – Up to 1.5cm. If a slightly thicker coat is needed, “Trasparente” – Multipurpose Clear Epoxy Resin for Casting – Up to 2cm can be selected.

Gently pop any surface bubbles with a heat gun or torch, taking care not to scorch the resin or photo. For projects requiring food safety (e.g. placemats), “EpoxyFood” – Certified Clear Food Contact Epoxy Resin for Coating is suitable. Keep your workspace dust-free and level to ensure the resin cures smoothly.

Step 4: Cure and Finish the Coating

Cover the piece to protect it from dust as it cures. Allow ample curing time—refer to your resin’s guidelines, but typically 24–48 hours is required for a full set. Avoid moving or touching the surface during this time. Once cured, check for sharp or uneven edges; sand lightly if necessary for a clean finished result. Your photograph is now sealed in a crystal-clear, durable layer and ready for display or functional use.

Tips, Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

Always test the sealing technique on a similar photo off-cut first, especially if using inkjet prints. Avoid thick resin layers in a single pour; exceeding recommended depths may lead to bubbling or incomplete curing. Keep humidity low to prevent clouding, and don’t rush the curing process. If bubbles persist after pouring, use a heat source sparingly and in quick passes only. Any tackiness after curing suggests an imbalance in mixing or incorrect ratios—carefully follow your chosen resin’s instructions for best results.

Showcasing Resin-Protected Photographs

Sealing photographs with transparent resin not only protects them but also enhances their vibrancy and depth. Finished pieces are suitable for framing, tabletop use, or even creating memorable gifts.