UV resin or epoxy, which one to choose?

So you’ve decided that you want to start working with resin, but you’re not sure which type to choose. UV resin and epoxy resin are both popular choices for crafters, but they have some key differences. 

In this blog post, we’ll break down those differences and help you decide which resin is right for you. UV resin cures quickly when exposed to ultraviolet light, making it a great choice for projects that need to be completed quickly. 

Epoxy resin takes longer to cure, but it is more durable and heat-resistant. So, which one should you choose? Read on to find out!

What is UV resin?

When it comes to choosing the right resin for your project, can be a bit of a daunting task. That’s why we’ve put together this helpful guide to help you make a decision. 

First, let’s take a look at UV resin. This material is often used for making jewelry, crafts, and models because it dries quickly and doesn’t shrink. Additionally, it’s hard and durable, making it a good choice for projects that require durability. 

However, UV resin can be difficult to work with if you’re not familiar with the process. For a quick and easy solution, epoxy might be a better option for you. 

Epoxy is a type of hard plastic that is cured with epoxy resin and epoxy resin hardener. Both of these ingredients are epoxy resin based, so they require epoxy resin-grade hardener. 

Epoxy resin is a type of resin that is used in a wide variety of applications, from manufacturing hard goods to constructing aircraft and boats

What is epoxy?

When it comes to resin or epoxy, which one should you choose? Both have advantages and disadvantages that must be considered before making a decision.

Resin is often used in jewelry making because it creates a strong bond between pieces. Epoxy is often used in restoration work because it hardens when exposed to UV light or sunlight. 

However, epoxy has a few disadvantages. First of all, epoxy is often difficult to work with – it needs to be mixed together before use and needs to be spread thinly over surfaces. 

Also, epoxy can be tough to remove once it’s been applied, so it’s important to plan your project carefully. 

Epoxy is more versatile – it can be used to fill in gaps and cracks, and it’s also less likely to cause damage to surfaces than resin. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what you’re looking for in a resin or epoxy glue. 

UV Resin vs Epoxy Resin

When it comes to resin crafting, there are two main types – UV resin and epoxy resin. Both have their own benefits and drawbacks, and it can be hard to decide which one to choose. 

UV resin hardens when exposed to ultraviolet light, which makes it perfect for crafting applications that need a hard finish. UV resin is usually more expensive than epoxy, but it can be used to create intricate designs. 

However, UV resin is not as strong or durable as epoxy, and it can be tricky to work with because it hardens quickly.

Epoxy resin is more durable than UV resin and takes longer to cure, but it’s also more transparent. 

It is a good choice for applications where strength and durability are important, but it may not be the best choice if time is a factor. This makes it perfect for projects that require a clear finish.

Both resins come in clear or opaque versions, and they can be tinted with colorants.

Which one is better for jewelry making?

For jewelry making, epoxy resin is the better choice as it has better tensile strength and is more flexible than UV resin. Epoxy resin takes longer to cure, but it provides a more durable and waterproof finish. 

UV resin cures quickly and does not require any mixing, but it dries out easily and can be brittle. Both options are safe for jewelry making, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.

What are the pros and cons of each type of resin?

There are pros and cons to each type of resin, so it really depends on what your needs are.

UV resin cures quickly with exposure to UV light, while epoxy requires time, heat, or catalysts to cure. This means that if you need a resin that will harden quickly, UV resin is the way to go. However, epoxy is more durable in the long run.

UV resin is more brittle and less durable than epoxy. This means that it is more likely to break or crack over time. Epoxy, on the other hand, is much more flexible and can withstand more wear and tear.

Epoxy has a longer shelf life and can be stored for several years before use. UV resin, on the other hand, hardens over time even when stored in an airtight container.

UV resin is easier to work with because it does not require mixing. Epoxy requires the mixing of two separate parts before it can be used, which can be messy and time-consuming.

Additionally, UV resin can be hard to find in stores – most vendors sell epoxy resins instead. 

Which one is better for crafting?

It really depends on the type of crafting project you are working on. If you need a quick set time and a hard, glossy finish, then UV resin is ideal. This type of resin is great for making jewelry or other small items. 

However, epoxy resin is better suited for larger projects such as table tops or coasters because it is more flexible and can fill gaps. Additionally, epoxy resin is more resistant to heat and chemicals than UV resin.

Conclusion

If you’re trying to decide between UV resin or epoxy resin for your project, it’s important to understand the differences between the two. 

Ultimately, the resin you choose will depend on your project needs. If you need a durable, fast-curing resin, go with UV resin. If you need a resin that is more flexible and has a longer curing time, epoxy resin is the better choice. 

However, we hope this guide has helped you make a more informed decision and that you choose the resin that is best for your project.