Understanding the Different Types of Epoxy Resins: Which One is Right for You?

If you're new to resin art, you've probably already noticed that not all epoxy resins are the same. When I started working with resin over five years ago, I had no idea there were so many different types. But first—

What is resin?

Resin (specifically epoxy resin) is a two-part liquid (resin + hardener) that, when mixed, turns into a hard, glass-like surface. It’s used in everything from art to furniture, and choosing the right type is key to getting the look (and durability) you want.

Confused about which epoxy resin to use? Let me guide you through the main types based on their uses to find the best fit for your project.

1. For Small Crafts, Jewelry, & Fast Projects

If you love making small pieces like pendants, bookmarks, or decorative charms, you'll need a resin that cures (how long it takes to fully harden) quickly and works well in thin layers.

This is where Epoke Quick Coat and UV resin come in handy. Quick Coat is great if you're in a hurry and want to demold fast (with 8 hours of touch dry). It’s especially helpful for workshops or bulk orders where time matters. UV resin is another good choice for tiny pieces—you just cure it under a UV lamp, and it's done in minutes! Perfect for jewelry makers who don’t want to wait 12 hours.

Just note: UV resin can yellow over time if not top-coated, and it's best for small surface areas only.

2. For General Art & Coatings

For most basic resin art projects like coasters, trays, wall clocks, or abstract paintings, you want a balanced resin that gives a glossy finish, is easy to mix, and works well in shallow pours (up to 5mm at a time).

This is where something like a Simple Art Resin (mixed ratio 3:1) is ideal. Great for beginners, allows for blending colors and creating swirls while curing hard and shiny. Perfect for art boards, furniture accents, or experimenting at home.

One of my go-to choices in this category is from Epoke—their beginner-friendly resin is clear, reliable, and doesn’t bubble too much.

>> Check out our complete resin product breakdown here

3. For Deep Pours & River Tables

If you’ve ever seen those beautiful tables with colored resin flowing through wood slabs, you're looking at what's called a deep pour project. These require a completely different kind of resin, known for slower curing and less heat buildup.

This is where something like Mega Cast comes in. It’s made specifically for deeper pours (up to 2 inches in a single layer), so you can fill up molds or river table gaps without the risk of cracks or overheating.

Important: Don’t use general resin for deep pours. It will overheat and ruin your piece (trust me, I learned the hard way).

4. For Thick, Textured, or Layered Art

If you’re into 3D layers, ocean art with waves, or textured wall pieces that need dimension, go for a high-viscosity resin (thicker texture that doesn’t run easily). This type stays thick, holds its shape, and allows you to create beautiful depth without all your details melting into each other.

This is where something like EFX Thick comes in. It’s great for ocean pours because it holds white waves nicely, and you can do multiple layers without worrying about sagging or blending too much. I love using this for wall art, flower preservation layers, or anything where detail matters.

5. For Functional Surfaces That Take Wear & Tear

If you're making trays, tabletops, cutting boards, or anything that people will touch, move, or place objects on, your resin needs to be strong and scratch-resistant. That’s where a self-healing resin is a game-changer.

Self-heal resins are designed to handle scratches, light heat exposure, and small dents. Over time, tiny marks can disappear on their own. These are perfect for functional pieces that need to stay looking nice even after daily use.

I personally use this kind of resin for custom trays and tables, especially for clients who want both beauty and durability.

Bonus: Know Your Ratios & Curing Times

No matter which resin you use, always check the mix ratio (like 2:1 or 3:1) and follow the instructions exactly. Epoxy resin is sensitive, and even small mistakes in mixing can affect your final result.

Also, curing times vary! Some resins demold in 6-8 hours, while others need 24-48 hours for a full cure. Make sure you plan your projects around that, especially if you're selling or gifting your pieces.

Final Tips for Choosing the Right Epoxy Resin:

• Start with small projects to learn how different resins behave
  
• Always measure accurately and mix slowly to avoid bubbles
  
• Use a torch or heat gun to remove surface bubbles
  
• Wear gloves and work in a ventilated area for safety

🔍 Quick Resin Comparison Chart

In Conclusion

Choosing the right epoxy resin isn’t about finding the "best" one overall—it’s about picking what’s best for your project. Each type has a purpose, and once you know what to look for, resin art becomes a lot more fun (and way less stressful).

At ResinArtHub, we have a variety of resin types to choose from trusted brands like Epoke. Explore our collection to find your perfect match.

Happy creating, and remember: the right resin makes all the difference!