Making resin bookmarks is the new resin project on your mind. But you are confused about which is the best resin to make bookmarks?
Using resin for the first time for a DIY activity without proper knowledge can be dismaying. I had to go through a lot of trouble when I began working with resin.
I wanted to make a bookmark that not only solved my purpose but also looked beautiful and shimmery. In this blog, I would like to share about my experience of working with different types of resins for making bookmarks.
Which Resin is Best for Making Bookmarks for Beginners?
Broadly classified, there are two types of resins Casting resin and Coating or Laminating resin. Casting resin is commonly known as Epoxy resin.
Epoxy resin is created by a chemical reaction when two components, resin and hardener, are mixed in a ratio of 1 part resin and 1 part hardener, 2 parts resin and 1 part hardener or 3 parts resin and 1 part hardener.
It depends on the configurations mentioned by the manufacturer on the resin bottle label.
2 Best Quality Epoxy Resins to Start Your First DIY Bookmarks Project
I have been working on a lot of DIY Bookmark projects in the past. And I almost always use two particular types of Epoxy resins. Let me compare them in the table below.
| POINT WISE COMPARISON BETWEEN 2 POPULAR RESINS |
| COST
Epoke Crystal Clear Epoxy Art Resin Rs. 1400/- (1200 gms) Haksons Ultra Clear Grade 1 Epoxy Rs. 990/- (650 gms) |
| MIXING RATIO
Epoke Crystal Clear Epoxy Art Resin 3:1 by Weight Haksons Ultra Clear Grade 1 Epoxy 3:1 by Weight |
| POT LIFE
Epoke Crystal Clear Epoxy Art Resin 25 to 30 minutes Haksons Ultra Clear Grade 1 Epoxy 25 to 30 minutes |
| WORKING TIME
Epoke Crystal Clear Epoxy Art Resin 30 minutes Haksons Ultra Clear Grade 1 Epoxy 30 to 45 minutes |
| VISCOSITY
Epoke Crystal Clear Epoxy Art Resin Thick Haksons Ultra Clear Grade 1 Epoxy Thin |
| FUMES
Epoke Crystal Clear Epoxy Art Resin No Fumes Haksons Ultra Clear Grade 1 Epoxy No Fumes |
| SMELL
Epoke Crystal Clear Epoxy Art Resin No pungent smell Haksons Ultra Clear Grade 1 Epoxy No pungent smell |
| CURING TIME
Epoke Crystal Clear Epoxy Art Resin 12 to 24 Hours Haksons Ultra Clear Grade 1 Epoxy 12 to 24 Hours / 6 to 8 Hours |
| USAGE
Epoke Crystal Clear Epoxy Art Resin Casting Haksons Ultra Clear Grade 1 Epoxy Casting / Coating |
I hope that the above table helps you gain more clarity on the two credible resin brands that can be used for making bookmarks. Let me now elaborate on each of these points separately.
Cost
Epoxy resin art is an expensive art. So you should order small quantities for your first project.
If you are planning to make only a few bookmarks for personal use and gifting, I would suggest you opt for Haksons Ultra clear Grade 1 Epoxy. The quantity (650 gms) is enough to get you started for a small DIY project.
As compared to Epoke Crystal Clear Art Resin which is priced at Rs.1400/- for 1200 gms, Haksons epoxy is cheaper (Rs.990/- for 650 gms).
The product outcome is equally good.
Mixing Ratio
All brands of epoxy resin have the manufacturer’s label with mixing instructions. As resin and hardener are chemicals, they should be mixed precisely by weight in the ratio mentioned on the packaging.
Some epoxy resin are mixed in the ratio of 1 part resin and 1 part hardener. Some epoxy resins have to be mixed in the ratio of 2 parts resin and 1 part hardener or 3 parts resin and 1 part hardener.
Thumb rule is to follow the manufacturers instructions mentioned on the label.
Pot Life
Pot life, also known as the Processing Time is the time span within which the epoxy can be used after mixing the resin and the hardener. After which the epoxy resin starts getting thicker.
I have worked with both types of epoxy resin as mentioned above. And both the epoxy brands have a pot life that varies between 25 to 35 minutes.
This gives you enough time to work on a project effectively.
Working Time
After correctly mixing resin and hardener in the appropriate ratio let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Let the bubbles set in. Also the epoxy will start to warm.
One thing that you should know is that you will have ample of working time with epoxy resin, i.e. nearly 30 to 40 minutes. So never be in a haste to complete your creations.
Personally, I prefer Haksons epoxy for a big project as it provides 10 to 15 minutes more working time than Art Resin epoxy.
You can comfortably work to beautify your bookmarks.
Fumes and Smell
Pure epoxy resin is generally considered non-toxic as it is not volatile. And the risk related to ingestion of epoxy resin is very small. But when the skin comes in contact with the epoxy resin, it can be damaging. It can give skin allergy like rashes or eczema.
Epoxy resin is a chemical. Like every chemical, it also has some kind of odour. But the epoxy resins that I have mentioned earlier, I have been using for my DIY projects barely give any pungent smell. Smelling epoxy is safe if used as directed in a fully ventilated area.
But I now prefer to wear a mask and a pair of gloves even if I am working on a small project.
My skin is very sensitive and once I got rashes when I thought of skipping wearing my gloves. It was hard to stay away from the resin for a week. As my dermatologist suggested I should let the rashes heal. So always be careful when working with any type of chemical, epoxy being one.
Curing Time
For all types of epoxy resin it usually takes 12 to 24 hours of curing time. Curing time is the time when the epoxy resin is completely cured and is good to be de-moulded.
Make sure the room temperature is neither too cold or moist. It can leave your bookmarks tacky in the mould for longer than expected. A warm room increases the curing time.
Whether you decide to make your first DIY project with Epoke Crystal Clear Epoxy Art Resin or Haksons Ultra Clear Grade 1 Epoxy, both will take the same time to cure i.e. anywhere between 12 to 24 hours.
Usage
Epoke Crystal Clear Epoxy art resin and Haksons epoxy is good for personal use or DIY home projects. As it is high on the pocket you will have to find a wholesale resin supplier in your area if you want to pursue resin art professionally.
An Indigenous Resin Recommendation for Making Bookmarks
In addition to the above two brands suggested to you, I would like to share with you another one of my favourites. It isn’t very popular but is highly recommended by me. The name of this Epoxy Resin brand is Epoxy Resin Art by Ritesh. It is available on Amazon in India – my home country.
Let me now evaluate this resin for exactly the same metrics as the previous two ones.
| INTRODUCING EPOXY RESIN ART BY RITESH |
| Epoxy ResinArtBy Ritesh Art Resin |
| Cost Rs. 1399/- (1.33 Kg) |
| Mixing Ratio 3:1 by Weight |
| Pot Life 35 to 45 minutes |
| Working Time 40 to 60 minutes |
| Viscosity Thick |
| Fumes No Fumes |
| Smell No pungent smell |
| Curing Time 12 to 24 Hours |
| Used For Casting |
Now that you have a good idea on the three kinds of epoxy resins that you can use for creating bookmarks yourself, let me share with you the differences between casting and coating resin below.
Difference between Casting Resin and Coating Resin?
As somebody wanting to make Resin Bookmarks, you should be aware about Casting and Coating Resins.
Casting resin is usually thick and is used to cast anything from bookmarks to big statues. Personally, I love to cast and create a new variety of bookmarks from the silicon molds. As every pour gives a unique outcome that is a delight for my eyes.
Coating resin is thin in consistency so I love to use it as a sealant on my projects. It can be spread equally over the area using a paint brush. The final finish is smooth and glossy..
| Casting Resin Coating Resin |
| Thick Pour Thin Pour (water like consistency) |
| Cure Time12 to 24 Hours 8 to 12 Hours to cure |
Epoxy Resin – The best resin for making bookmarks
As a beginner, it will take you a little time to get a hang of working with resin. Epoxy is a clear resin. It is durable and has a longer pot life that makes it easier to work with as it is self levelling.
Epoxy is also easy to maintain. It is non-toxic and especially built for creative projects.
Epoxy resin is easily available at many DIY stores or it can be purchased online at a good price.
Always Opt to Buy Epoxy Resin from the Wholesale Resin Supplier
Resin art is undoubtedly an expensive art to pursue as a hobby. But consider yourself lucky if you are able to find a wholesale manufacturer of resin in your area or nearby.
Also, if you are planning to make bigger projects you will eventually have to look for a wholesale vendor for your epoxy resin supply.
A few things to consider when buying the epoxy resin supply in wholesale. Make sure to check the quality of the resin. So buy a small quantity initially before you become a loyal customer to any local vendor.
Importance of Viscosity in Resin Selection
Now that we know, epoxy resin is the best resin for making bookmarks, it’s time to understand about the viscosity of the resin you will be using for making bookmarks. Viscosity is the flowability of the liquid.
A low-viscosity epoxy resin is usually sturdy and durable.
These are low odour and solvent-free and make the project easier to work with. It gives you a longer than usual pot life to work when making bookmarks and allows you to make changes in design if required.
Pointers of Quality Check of Epoxy Resin
I’m sharing a few checklist pointers that you should consider while buying Epoxy Resin.
High Gloss
Make sure the epoxy you are buying is a clear resin.
Non-Yellowing
A clear epoxy resin cures without a yellow tinge.
No or Less Smell
Epoxy resin is a chemical and like any chemical it has some odour. But the smell is not pungent or fowl. This is another way to know if your epoxy is pure or fake.
No Fumes
Always buy a small quantity first. When you mix resin and hardener in the mentioned ratio, check if it produces fumes. Epoxy, by nature, is non-toxic if inhaled. But pure epoxy will give less to no fumes.
Easy DIY Bookmarks you can create from Epoxy Resin
Epoxy resin is very versatile and is used for making different types of resin bookmarks.
My first bookmark making project was a trial. And believe me even after doing everything right I can only put it across as a trial and error project. But at least, it cured well. However, now when I look back, I surely have learnt a lot about using resin for making DIY bookmarks.
As much easy epoxy resin is to maintain so much a task it is to learn to control its flow depending upon the design you choose to create. Keep up the trials and you are sure to succeed.
Listed below are a few types of resin bookmarks you can try once you befriend your choice of epoxy resin.
| Beach resin Bookmarks: You can create a beautiful ocean with beach sand and shells for a unique design.
Rose petals and gold/silver foil resin Bookmarks: Use of rose petals and gold or silver foil creates lovely and awe inspiring bookmarks. Sparkle and chunks resin Bookmarks: Try mixing sparkle, glitter and chunks in the resin before pouring in the mold. It gives a rich and swanky look to the final outcome. Pressed flower resin Bookmarks: For this only use dried flowers. Fresh flowers can leave colour and spoil the whole concept. Geode Bookmarks: You can embed crushed glass or crystals in your design. |
Tips for Choosing Resin for Bookmarks
When I began my quest to choose the best resin for making bookmarks as a beginner, it left a hole in my pocket. I spent a lot of money trying to find the right epoxy resin for my project.
There are a lot of options available online. Being clueless and new to the art one tends to go with different brands at the same time. A suggestion here, try one brand at a time. And start with a small quantity.
| Research about the various types of epoxy resin available in the market. |
| Read customer reviews on Amazon. |
| Epoxy is expensive. Do not buy two or three brands together. Work with one type at a time. |
| Always have the design and concept ready. This will help you choose the right epoxy for your project. |
| Choosing the right epoxy resin is a work of patience. Do not rush yourself to make a haste decision. |
I have made some silly decisions in the beginning that proved to be heavy on my pocket. I would not like to see anyone else going down that path. So be patient. You will eventually find your epoxy.
Keep trying to create small projects. And don’t give up. As there are no mistakes in art (one exception in resin being – mixing of resin and hardener in exact mentioned ratio), there’s only a different creation than expected.
Best Epoxy Resin Used for Bookmarks in India
There are two specific brands of epoxy resin widely used in India for art and creative projects.
Epoke art epoxy resin is a high gloss clear coat system specifically designed for all creative projects. It offers the most efficient non-yellowing protection, and is non-toxic and safe for home use.
You can buy it on Amazon
Epoxy Resin art by Ritesh Art Resin Kit ultra clear, high gloss, non-yellowing resin. It has a longer pot life of nearly 40 to 60 minutes. It is non-toxic and safe for making DIY projects.
You can buy it on Amazon
Best Epoxy Resin Used for Bookmarks in USA
Commonly used epoxy resin brands for beginners and experts in the USA are Art Resin Epoxy Resin and DR. CRAFTY Clear Epoxy Resin Kit.
Art Resin Epoxy Resin is available in a Starter’s Kit, Mini Kit or a Studio Kit. Depending upon the project you are working on you can order the supplies.
Advice on choosing cheaper epoxy resin over the expensive brands
Epoxy resin is usually costly from wherever you choose to purchase, order online or buy it from the local vendor.
As a beginner you might get lured to buy from the vendor selling resin at a cheaper price. A word of caution here, resin art is an expensive art because of the superior quality of epoxy resin. Buying an inferior quality resin for cost satisfaction may not get you the satisfactory results of working with epoxy resin.
Cheap resins give a yellowish tinge when the two components, resin and hardener, are mixed. They are toxic and give a foul smell making it difficult to work with.
The chances are also high that it may not cure completely and leave a tacky bookmark on the mould.
So never compromise on the price of the resin if you are willing to create some beautiful and sparkly bookmarks for yourself or to gift to your friends and family.
Things to Remember While Making Resin Bookmarks
You know your epoxy resin well by now. It’s time you got started to make the best resin bookmarks. A few things to keep in mind –
No compromise on price
Do not go for cheap quality epoxy resin to compromise on price.
Be patient
Resin is an expensive art that needs time, dedication and patience to get beautiful results.
Read instructions
Read the resin bottle label for instructions. Each brand differs in the mixing ratio of the two components, resin and hardener.
Be prepared
Processing time of resin is only 30 to 40 minutes. So be ready with the design, colour, theme and mold of the bookmark you wish to make. You may not be able to make changes after the resin starts setting in.
I hope my blog on, “Which is the Best Resin for Making Bookmarks” helps you get started with your first epoxy resin project. If you feel like, scroll through other resin art blogs of mine as well.
So while I go back to making my next epoxy resin project, I wish that you too are epoxy ready to start making your first bookmark.
Do share pictures of your beautiful and remarkable bookmarks with me in the comments. Looking forward to seeing some lovely creations from you all.