How Should I Seal Photographs Before Embedding in Resin?

Why Sealing Matters for Resin Casting

Photographs, especially inkjet prints, can react to resin’s liquid components, often leading to ink bleed or blurring. Sealing forms a protective barrier, keeping the image sharp and vibrant when encased in clear resin.

Recommended Sealing Methods

• Inkjet photos: Always seal with a clear acrylic lacquer spray. Hold the spray at an appropriate distance, apply light coats, and allow each layer to dry thoroughly. This step minimises the risk of ink bleeding when resin is poured.
• Laser prints: These are generally more resistant and may be embedded directly, provided they are fully dry. However, a light spray of acrylic lacquer adds extra protection, particularly for detailed or valuable images.

Before embedding, ensure the photo is completely dry and free of dust. Position it in your mould before pouring resin to achieve the best finish. For larger projects or keepsakes, consider a quality resin such as the “Trasparente” Epoxy Resin, known for its clarity and suitability for embedding objects.

When Proper Sealing Matters Most

Sealing is essential when using uncoated paper, inkjet prints, or valuable photographs. Humidity or poor sealing can spoil your piece, so taking time with this process is particularly important for sentimental projects.