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Before you get swept up in the excitement of pouring resin, careful planning is a must to set your project up for success. Preparing in advance allows you to avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth, creative experience.
Visualise Your Final Piece and Gather Materials
Think carefully about what you want your finished project to look like. Sketch simple layouts or make notes on colours, effects, or inclusions (such as flowers or metallic flakes). Decide on the shape and size of your work, and confirm you have a suitable mould or base prepared. If you’re following a specific project, such as the Kiwi Coasters video tutorial, review the list of materials so nothing is missed on the day.
- Check you have the correct resin for the look and thickness you need
- Prepare pigments and colourants in advance
- Lay out necessary tools (spatulas, gloves, mixing cups, and a level surface)
Set Up Your Workspace for Success
Organisation and a clean workspace are key when working with resin. Cover surfaces to protect them from drips, and ensure the area is dust-free. Have protective items like nitrile gloves ready to hand, as these are recommended for safe and comfortable resin work. Arrange everything within easy reach so you can act quickly once your resin is mixed and time is ticking.
- Check ventilation in your craft space
- Group your tools for each project stage
- Keep a timer nearby to manage working and curing times
When Planning Makes the Difference
Taking time to plan before you pour is especially important for intricate or multi-layered projects, as well as when trying a new technique for the first time. This step helps prevent rushed decisions, unexpected reactions, and wasted materials, ultimately making the resin work more enjoyable and rewarding.
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Setting aside time to plan before pouring resin helps you achieve better results and reduces stress during your project. For more ideas and guidance on mastering resin work, have a look at our main how to do resin work page.
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