How to Cast Acrylic Resin

Acrylic resin is a product that is used all over the world in commercial settings as well as by hobbyists. The liquid acrylic resin is poured into sculpted molds to make a myriad of products. Some of these items we may use every day range from plastic silverware to paper weights. The process is used to create hobby kits, lamp bases and even shells for cars. Using acrylic resin on a basic hobbyist level is easy to do and does not even need injection molding or air compression to work. The article that follows will take you through the process of working with acrylic resin to make costume jewelry. The principles you learn here can be transferred to anything you may want to cast with acrylic resin.

Step 1 - Prepare the Work Area

It is important to work in an area that has good ventilation and is also clean. Any dust or debris can ruin an otherwise good casting. Lay down sheets of newspaper and spray them with cooking spray or a mold release product. You can get mold release spray at any hobby store.

Step 2 - Make a Mold

In order to cast with acrylic resin you need a mold. You can buy one which work wells, but for this you'll be making your own. Since this is for costume jewelry, you can either use plastic jewels you found or you can carve your own from plasticine. Regardless of which you use, the jewel needs to have a flat side. Place the jewel on the newspapers with the flat side down. Spray them with cooking spray or mold release. Use the paintbrush and rub soap into the bristles. Put in the respirator and start painting the jewel with liquid latex. Use a stippling or dabbing application technique. Do your best to avoid air bubbles. The liquid latex will appear white but will become clear as it dried. Allow this layer to dry before painting on another layer. You want to have at least 5 layers of latex but as many as 15 or 20 will create a strong mold you can use often. Carefully remove the edges of the newspaper from the liquid latex until it is completely free. Work around the edges of the jewel and pop it out of the latex. Let it cure an hour so the inside it completely dry. You now have a mold.

Step 3 - Making an Acrylic Resin Cast

Spray the inside of the mold with cooking spray so that the new cast does not stick. Mix the acrylic resin and catalyst in the mixing cup according to the directions. You can mix in colors at this point to shade the jewel. Pour the mix acrylic resin in mold and allow it cure as per the directions. Remove the freshly cast jewel and clean off the cooking spray. Sand away sharp edges and cover with clear nail polish.