Learn how to make these resin crafts for home or gifts! These 30+ resin craft ideas are perfect for beginners. Get tips and tricks for success too!
I’ll be honest, I love it when crafts come back around. It’s happened with Mod Podge several times – as you might expect with a product that is over 50 years old. It’s nice when the next generation can enjoy something that I enjoyed as a kid. Annnnddd I just made myself sound really old.
But seriously, I do love old crafting techniques making a resurgence. And the latest to come back is a favorite of mine: epoxy resin. You may have noticed in the craft stores recently the end caps from the different brands with resin, molds, tools, etc.
You may have even seen Mod Podge Resin in the stores. But you also may not have any idea what resin is, or what you can do with it. That’s why I’m excited to share some resin crafts with you today, so you can get started with this awesome trend.
Crafting with Resin
If you’ve never used resin before, I’m going to start with some FAQs about the product as well as what you can do.
If you’re here for the resin crafts, scroll down to the bottom for an awesome list for beginners and beyond. Otherwise, let’s start with some questions to help introduce you to a whole new world of crafting.
What is epoxy resin?
Without getting too science-y, epoxy resin is a two part liquid product that, when mixed together, hardens into a solid, clear surface. It comes in two separate bottles. Typically the bottles are mixed in a 1:1 ratio. The surface that results is waterproof, food safe, and very strong.
Because I get asked this: if you’ve heard of casting resin, it’s a type of epoxy resin. The features of casting resin is that it has low viscosity, making it ideal for things that require a thick pour (like paperweights, encasing items in resin).
Is resin art easy?
Yes. Resin crafts are not hard to make, but you do need to observe all the instructions carefully and wear the appropriate safety gear. Besides that, you’ll be mixing and pouring. My suggestion is to start small and work your way up to projects that use more resin to get a feel for it.
What crafts can you make with resin?
Coasters, frames, keychains, hair accessories, paperweights, tabletops, cutting boards, trays, jewelry, wall art, and more. You’ll see the awesomeness that is resin at the bottom of this post.
Why is resin dangerous?
Because when mixed, a chemical reaction takes place and resin releases fumes when curing. It’s not anything you can see like in chemistry class, but sensitive folks should definitely wear a respirator and eyewear.
Resin can also irritate the skin so gloves and long sleeves are a good idea too. If you want to know more, get Mod Podge resin MSDS sheets here. Always wear recommended safety equipment for your specific product.
What is the best resin for beginners?
I don’t think any of the resins currently on the market are hard to use. I just look for a 1:1 mixing ratio. Besides that, you’re stirring . . . and the instructions are pretty much the same no matter which one you use.
What can be put in resin?
Glitter, alcohol ink, paint, dried flowers, scrapbooking embellishments, wood shapes, sand and seashells, and an endless variety of other materials.
Can you put fresh flowers in resin?
No. It’s not recommended because fresh flowers can rot inside resin. You’ll want to make sure they are dry.
Why is resin expensive?
The process of bottling the two separate parts is more intensive than bottling something like acrylic paint – especially when you have ingredients that are toxic when handled. The material itself is more expensive, too. I believe the price is worth the results, though. You’ll see when you use it!
Does resin break easily?
No, it’s relatively strong. But it can break. If you make a paperweight and then slam in on the hard floor, you could crack it. Or drop something and hit it at just the right angle. It’s dense and there is some weight to it when it is fully hardened.
Are you ready to jump into the resin crafting ideas? I can’t wait for you to get started! Scroll down to get them!
Resin Crafts
Learn how to make cool things with epoxy resin. These 30 resin craft ideas are great for beginners. You're going to love this cool crafting trend!
Agate Geode Coasters
Learn how to make beautiful geode coasters with resin, alcohol ink, glitter, and paint. This tutorial walks you through the process.
DIY Resin Frame Made with Legos
Learn how to make a resin photo frame using epoxy and Legos! This resin frame is so easy – what will you put in your creation?
Resin Hair Barrettes
Elizabeth needed some hair barrettes to chicly combat Texas summer heat, so she thought it would be fun to add foil flakes to resin to create classy hair barrettes. You can make these as colorful or as fancy as you like.
Glitter Resin Dominoes
Make a custom set of Mickey Mouse dominoes out of resin to play with the family! You can use this same tutorial to make dominoes in any color or theme.
Dried Flowers in Resin
Learn how to preserve dried flowers in resin using this easy tutorial. Perfect for making jewelry, coasters, and more.
Resin Cutting Board
Learn how to make a resin cutting board with epoxy casting resin and acrylic paint! Makes a perfect gift idea.
DIY Resin Coasters
Learn how to make DIY resin coasters perfect for home decor or gifting. These are easy to make with glitter, alcohol ink, and more.
DIY Resin Keychains
A DIY resin keychain makes a great gift! Learn how to make DIY resin keychains in a variety of styles using these simple tutorials.
DIY Bookmarks
Create glitter resin bookmarks for the bookworms in your life! This easy step-by-step tutorial will show you how to make bookmarks with tassels.
Ocean Resin Art
Learn how to make ocean resin art for beginners! Even if you don’t have experience you can make this beach resin art for your home.
Breakfast in Bed Tray
Learn how to decorate a tray with Mod Podge photo transfer medium! We revamped a thrift store find.
DIY Photo Resin Coasters
These photo resin coasters would look adorable on your desk at work, on your nightstand . . . or anywhere really. The best part is that because the mason jar lid has a lip, when condensation forms from cold beverages, the mess will be contained!
DIY Lazy Susan
Learn how to make a lazy susan with a planter tray from Home Depot! You can use any graphics to customize.
Cabinet Drawer Pulls
Most affordable cabinet hardware is pretty plain looking. If you want a more custom look you either need to spend a fortune OR make them yourself. Thankfully, you can make your own cabinet drawer pulls using resin to create one-of-a-kind hardware that doesn’t break the bank.
DIY Resin Tray
Turn a piece of wood into a cool resin tray by splitting the piece in half! I love the wuse of white resin to create this unique home decor tray with handles.
DIY Wood and Resin Pendant
Make beautiful resin jewelry using wood pieces and alcohol ink or food coloring and resin. You can make a beautiful pendant set using the mold of your choice.
Easy Resin Bangles
Up your fashion game by crafting your own jewelry with this glitter-y Mod Podge Resin bangle project. These are great to make and give to as a gift or to pair with your favorite outfit for a night out.
Decorative Mosaic Tray
Turns out that leftover backsplash tile makes a perfect bottom layer of a wood tray! Add resin on top to complete the project - it's easy.
Rainbow Gummy Bear Thumbtacks
Is your bulletin board looking a little boring? You can make your own gummy bear thumbtacks with a silicone mold and colorful resin! This is a great started resin project if you have been intimidated to work with resin.
DIY Glossy Photo Wood Slice
This is a way to incorporate photos into your home decor in a unique way. Add a photo to a wood slice and then pour resin on top. Makes for a great gift idea!
How to Make Resin Dice
Learn how to make dice by using resin. The sky's the limit as to what designs and patterns you can come up with, maybe even invent a new game yourself!
Decorated Wooden Spoons
You can make these decorated wooden spoons for a gift for mom or for your own kitchen! Grab some two part epoxy resin, alcohol ink or paint, and you'll have these done in no time.
How to Make Resin Succulents
Ready for a fun and easy project? Resin succulents! These little guys are a great beginner project and you can use them for so many things . . . add a magnet to put them on the fridge, a keychain so they can dangle from your keys or even arrange them in a flower pot as a tiny succulent garden that you really can’t kill.
How to Make Resin Sprinkle Jewelry
Can you use sprinkles and resin together? Absolutely! This colorful jewelry set consists of a bangle bracelet and rings.
Pineapple String Lights
Use a cheap silicone mold to upgrade basic string of mini LED lights into lights that are perfect for a summer party! Using resin in a silicone mold allows you to create translucent decorations in nearly any shape. Jessica chose to make a set of colorful pineapple string lights, but you can use this same technique to perfectly match your party theme.
Resin Geode Wood Sign
Use a wood pouring surface along with resin to create a unique piece of wall art that has a unique geode effect. Such a pretty touch to your home decor.
DIY Fish Bowl Necklace
You can make a DIY fish bowl necklace with resin and a few supplies. These cute necklaces are perfect for kids or even adults that want to add a touch of whimsy to their jewelry choices. For those that love goldfish, these are absolutely the perfect accessory!
DIY Notebook Covers from Resin
I find it very impressive that notebook covers can be personalized with resin! This is such a cool gift idea for a teacher or a craft for a teenager or college student going back to school.
Resin Jewelry
Learn how to make a resin necklace and other jewelry using this simple tutorial. This pendant is beautiful to make for selling or gifting!
How to Make Resin Tumblers
Decorate your favorite tumbler for your morning cup of joe with Mod Podge Resin. Add monograms, glitter, fun shapes, and more to make your tumbler stand out.
Sandy Beach Canvas
Recreate your favorite beach destination with Mod Podge Resin! Easily embed sand, seashells, and more from the ocean to preserve your memories. Dream of a tropical vacation with this fun beach canvas project.
DIY Epoxy River Table with Waterfall
Learn how to make a epoxy river table with a waterfall from a live edge slab! If you want to tackle something with a few more steps than a regular resin project, this is your DIY.
Gold Leaf Resin Pendants
Learn how to gold leaf resin with these two simple projects! You can make either a coaster or a necklace in minutes. The results are beautiful!
What do you think about these resin crafts? Have you tried any? I would love to know in the comments!
Wendy F.
Thursday 22nd of June 2023
Aww awesome projects, thank you for sharing! I consider myself advanced-intermediate in resin crafting and some of these ideas are totally new to me, you’ve reignited my excitement!
Maple
Saturday 31st of December 2022
Thanks so much for sharing your ideas!! They are great and I’m looking forward to trying some out!!
Amy
Thursday 5th of January 2023
Thanks for reading!
Angela Anderson
Friday 29th of July 2022
thank you so much I found the information simple and helpful.
Cecile Lux
Tuesday 18th of January 2022
ThankYou for all your help I am now ready to tackle some resin projects
Marilyn Bowman
Wednesday 10th of November 2021
Thank you for sharing your Resin Idea's with me . I've been wanting to do a canvas resin art . I think I'm ready . Wish me luck !
Amy
Wednesday 10th of November 2021
Good luck! It's going to be awesome!