Epoxy resin has long been used in the construction industry, but for some time it has also been increasingly used in jewelry. What distinguishes this material and how can you use it?
Resins are among the popular materials used in many industries, not only by professionals, but also by amateurs. Special attention is increasingly being paid to epoxy resin, which is easy to mold and process, making it eagerly used in DIY projects, among other things.
Epoxy resin is a synthetic substance that takes the form of a viscous liquid or a meltable solid. It can become insoluble and non-fusible when combined with a hardener. Once cured, the resin’s other properties become active, which is what makes it so widely used.
The most important properties and advantages of epoxy resin include:
In addition to epoxy resin, epoxy adhesives are offered for sale, which are designed only for joining parts made of different materials. The adhesives are in the form of a gel and are distinguished by their higher density, so they dry faster and firmly connect the glued parts.
Epoxy resin allows you to get a perfectly smooth surface without additional treatments. However, the material can be treated, for example, sanded with sandpaper, polished with water paper or polishing paste, and even drilled into it. Importantly, the resin conforms to the shape of any form. When making various types of projects, it is a good idea to use silicone molds or temporary constructions made of wooden boards, which will be removed once the resin has set. In this way it is possible to produce elements of furniture, countertops or lamp housings.
Epoxy resin is very often used in the production of custom guitars, decorative objects and making home floors. An interesting solution is to add different colored dyes to the resin or create 3D floors, which look striking and optically enlarge the interior.
In the jewelry industry, on the other hand, epoxy resin is used to produce:
Epoxy resin is also eagerly used by DIY enthusiasts in their DIY projects and create various decorations from it, for example, flower vases, photo frames, cup and candle holders, cutting boards, dishes and other kinds of home accessories.
Epoxy resin is an excellent material for leveling out imperfections and protecting and strengthening wood and furniture or objects made from it. The substance must first be mixed with a hardener and possibly a dye. Then, using a brush, we apply it to cleaned and dust-free wood, and leave it to dry. Depending on the temperature, the resin dries from 24 to 48 hours.
Epoxy resin-protected wooden parts are more durable and resistant to scratches, dings, moisture or sunlight.
main photo: pixabay.com/senelatay
