What supplies do I need for resin art?

Resin art and custom resin sculpture have become increasingly popular due to their glossy finishes, limitless design possibilities, and durability. Whether you are a beginner or a professional looking to dive deeper into custom work, understanding the essential supplies is critical for achieving high-quality results.

This guide outlines the must-have materials and tools for creating resin art, sculptural pieces, and fully customized resin sculptures.

Understanding Resin Art and Custom Sculpture

Before we list the supplies, it’s important to differentiate between resin art, custom sculpture, and custom resin sculpture.

• Resin art refers to abstract or decorative designs made with epoxy or polyurethane resin. It usually involves canvas or wood panels, color pigments, and layers of poured resin.
  
  
• Custom sculpture is a broader category that includes sculptures made from any medium (like clay, metal, or fiberglass) but tailored to a specific concept or client request.
  
  
• Custom resin sculpture combines the precision of sculpture with the medium of resin, allowing for realistic, detailed, and highly finished art pieces designed to meet specific ideas or themes.

Each category requires overlapping but distinct supplies.

A custom resin sculpture offers personalized, detailed, and durable art pieces ideal for home decor, branding, events, or public installations.

Essential Supplies for Resin Art

Creating resin art involves both creative and technical tools. Here are the basics:

1. Epoxy or Polyurethane Resin

This is your primary material. Epoxy resin is popular for art because it is clear, self-leveling, and cures with a high-gloss finish. Make sure to choose a high-quality art resin that is UV-resistant and non-yellowing.

2. Hardener

Most resin systems are two-part formulas—resin and hardener—that you mix together in specific ratios (typically 1:1 or 2:1). The hardener causes the resin to cure (harden) over time.

3. Mixing Cups and Stir Sticks

Use disposable or reusable mixing cups made of silicone or plastic. Stir sticks (wooden or plastic) are essential for combining resin and hardener, and for mixing in colorants.

4. Color Pigments and Dyes

To create vibrant resin art, you’ll need:

• Alcohol inks
  
  
• Resin pigment pastes
  
  
• Mica powders
  
  
• Liquid dyes

Choose colorants specifically made for resin to ensure proper blending and curing.

5. Canvas, Wood Panels, or Silicone Molds

Resin can be poured over flat surfaces like canvas or into molds for more dimensional art. Use level, sealed surfaces to avoid absorption or warping. Silicone molds are ideal for making coasters, trays, and small sculptures.

6. Heat Gun or Torch

Air bubbles form when you mix resin. Use a heat gun or butane torch to gently remove bubbles after pouring. Be cautious not to overheat the resin, which can cause burns or discoloration.

7. Protective Gear

Safety is non-negotiable when working with resin. You’ll need:

• Nitrile gloves (latex may react with some resins)
  
  
• Safety goggles
  
  
• Respirator mask (especially when working in enclosed spaces)

8. Leveling Tools and Tapes

Your work surface must be perfectly level for the resin to cure evenly. Use a bubble level and painter’s tape to protect the edges of your canvas or mold.

Additional Supplies for Custom Sculpture

When shifting from flat resin art to sculptural work, you’ll need more robust materials and tools.

1. Clay or Foam for Armature

Start with an armature, which forms the base shape of your sculpture. Use clay, foam blocks, or wire mesh to build your framework before applying resin or fiberglass. This is particularly helpful when sculpting figures, animals, or custom 3D shapes.

2. Silicone for Mold Making

If you’re making a custom sculpture from an original model, you’ll need to create a mold. Silicone rubber is the best choice for making molds that can handle resin casting. There are two types:

• Tin-cure silicone (budget-friendly, short shelf life)
  
  
• Platinum-cure silicone (longer-lasting and more durable)

3. Mold Release Agent

To easily separate cured resin from the mold, spray or brush on a mold release agent. This prevents sticking and extends the life of your mold.

4. Sculpting Tools

For fine detail, use:

• Loop tools
  
  
• Carving knives
  
  
• Modeling spatulas
  
  
• Needle tools

These tools help refine the shape of clay or foam before casting in resin.

5. Measuring Scale

Precision is key for mixing resin and creating a structurally sound sculpture. A digital scale ensures you measure components accurately, especially when mixing in small batches.

Advanced Tools for Custom Resin Sculpture

If you’re ready to create custom resin sculptures, especially for clients or commercial purposes, consider adding these tools and materials to your studio:

1. Fiberglass Sheets or Mesh

To reinforce your sculpture, use fiberglass cloth between resin layers. This strengthens the final piece without adding much weight. It’s particularly useful for larger or outdoor sculptures.

2. Casting Resin vs. Coating Resin

Choose your resin type based on your project:

• Casting resin is thinner, takes longer to cure, and is ideal for deep molds and complex forms.
  
  
• Coating resin is thicker and cures faster, perfect for layering over surfaces.

3. Power Tools

Larger sculptures often need sanding and polishing. Invest in:

• Rotary tools (Dremel)
  
  
• Electric sander
  
  
• Handheld polisher

These tools help refine edges and surfaces after demolding.

4. Airbrush or Acrylic Paints

Once your sculpture is cured and sanded, apply paint for added realism. Acrylic paints adhere well to resin, and airbrush kits help apply even, professional coats.

5. Clear Topcoat or UV Sealer

Seal your finished piece with a UV-protective clear coat to prevent fading or yellowing over time, especially for outdoor displays.

Optional Supplies for Unique Effects

To add artistic flair or specialty effects, consider these extras:

• Gold or silver leaf
  
  
• Dried flowers or plants
  
  
• Crystals and stones
  
  
• Glow-in-the-dark powder
  
  
  
• Holographic or metallic foils

These elements can be embedded in resin or applied to the surface for texture and dimension.

Workspace Essentials

For both resin art and sculpture, prepare a dedicated workspace:

• Flat, level table
  
  
• Plastic sheeting or silicone mat to protect surfaces
  
  
• Good ventilation or exhaust fan
  
  
• Storage bins for tools and supplies
  
  
• Shelves or racks to hold molds during curing

Where to Get Supplies

You can find most supplies at specialized resin and art stores. Two highly recommended sources are:

SculpturesHome

An excellent online store for:

• Starter kits
  
  
• Resin-safe pigments
  
  
• Pre-made molds
  
  
• DIY mold-making tools

Fiberglass Sculpture Manufacturer

Perfect for:

• Custom fiberglass forms
  
  
• Reinforcement materials
  
  
• Outdoor sculpture bases
  
  
• Professional-quality molds

These suppliers are particularly helpful for artists transitioning from hobbyist to professional.

Conclusion

Whether you’re exploring resin art, custom sculpture, or complex custom resin sculptures, having the right tools and materials makes all the difference. Start with the basics—resin, pigments, molds, and protective gear—and gradually expand to include sculpting tools, mold-making materials, and finishing supplies.

For high-quality results, invest in good materials, follow safety guidelines, and take the time to understand how each component works. With practice and the right setup, you’ll soon be crafting stunning pieces that are both artistic and durable.