Resin Tutorial: Choosing the Right Resin Mold for Your Project

There are various types of molds to use with epoxy resin. You can make almost anything with molds. I will dive into a few pros and cons of each type so that you can choose the right one for your project. When working with resin, there are two types of molds; hard plastic and silicone molds.

Please note:

The finish in your mold will determine the finish of your resin piece. When a mold is shiny on the inside, it will transfer the shininess onto your resin piece. Your finished piece will have a glossy sheen versus a matte finish. Lastly, even if your final product starts off shiny, it will lose its shine over time with normal wear and tear.

Hard Plastic or Silicone Mold?

Top and bottom left: siliconeTop and bottom right: hard plastic

Hard Plastic Molds

Hard plastic molds are usually shiny on the inside. Hard plastic molds are somewhat rigid, yet still a little pliable. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Scratches are more common with hard plastic molds. Knowing this, you will need to take great care of these molds to reduce the likelihood of scratches. If a mold is scratched it will transfer that scratch mark onto your finished resin piece.

Pros:

Hard plastic molds come in a variety of shapes and sizes

Cons:

Hard plastic molds are pretty rigid; this may make removing your resin pieces difficult. Scratches are much more prevalent with hard plastic molds. Hard plastic molds lose their shine over time

Tips:

Looking to purchase some hard plastic molds? Check out EtsyTake care of your molds as they scratch easily.

Silicone Molds

Silicone molds are much more popular than hard plastic molds. These molds are easily accessible and more affordable as well.

Please note:

Silicone molds have either a shiny or matte interior finish and are very flexible. Silicone resin casting molds allow you to do complex castings that can be removed much more easily as compared to plastic molds. If you’re making a large piece or a piece that’s very deep, silicone is the way to go. Silicone molds can be found with either a matte or shiny finish interior. The finish in your mold will determine the finish of your resin piece Reminder: When a mold is shiny on the inside, it will transfer the shininess onto your resin piece. Your finished piece will have a glossy sheen versus a matte finish.

Pros:

Silicone molds are more resilient. Silicone molds withstand heat very well i.e. from a heat gun Silicone molds also come in all shapes and sizes

Cons:

Resin pieces made from silicone molds eventually lose their shine over time. Silicone attracts dust, dirt, and debris which can get into your resin

Tips:

You can purchase silicone molds almost anywhere such as AliExpress, Etsy, Amazon, Craft Stores, etc. Silicone molds labeled for “baking” or “candy” can be used with resin. Use tape to remove dirt and debris from your mold before pouring resin.

Summary

FINAL NOTES:

• Molds come in all shapes and sizes
• The finish in your mold will determine the finish of your resin piece
• Scratches can occur in both hard plastic and silicone molds; however, they are commonly found in hard plastic molds.
• Scratches WILL transfer to your finished products

❤ Lydia Diaz

You Can Watch My “Choosing the Right Resin Mold for Your Project” at Lydia Daily

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