The answer to this question is yes. There are top coats for resin, and I’m going to tell you about them in this article. In it, I’ll discuss one of the most popular top coats on the market and how you can use it for your water based urethanes.
Can I put top coat on resin?
So you’ve poured your resin (and waited for it to cure) and are thinking about what else you can do to finish it off. You can always add pigment, glitter, mica powder, or alcohol ink. Or you can give your resin a top coat to give it that finished look.
A lot of people ask if they can use a clear coat spray on resin. The answer is an absolute yes! It’s easy and straightforward to apply a top coat (or multiple coats) of clear spray paint or brush-on polyurethane on cured resin jewelry pieces or coasters.
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How do you top coat resin?
If you want to top coat your resin, there are a few options. If you would like a glossy finish, you can use clear epoxy resin or an epoxy resin spray. If you would like a matte finish, use a clear matte resin spray or an acrylic sealer spray. You can also use tape to create geometric shapes when spraying the paints on your piece.
What can I use to top coat resin?
We know what you’re thinking: “Oh no! What can I use to top coat resin? I don’t want to put anything on it, because it will damage the material.”
Don’t be too hasty there. Of course, if you are already familiar with the process of putting resin pieces together and have decided that everything will be fine without a clear top coat (or if you have decided against any clear coating at all), then by all means do not follow this advice.
We recommend using one of these products if only for your own peace of mind. It’s really up to you, but we’ve found that many resin projects turn out better (and faster) when they’re sealed with an acrylic spray or polyurethane topcoat.
Does epoxy resin need a top coat?
Answer: Yes, resin can be coated with a top coat to add shine and protect it from damage.
There are several types of top coats that you can use on resin, but they’re not all the same.
Epoxy resins are often used as top coats since they’re readily available and fairly inexpensive.
However, epoxies aren’t your only option for top coating. You may also want to try art varnish or automotive clear coat spray paint to enhance shine and protect against UV light damage.
Can you coat with resin?
Yes, you can use resin.
First of all, let’s talk about epoxy resin. What is it? Epoxy is generally a two-part liquid mixture that creates a hard clear surface when cured.
This technique is often used in industrial projects and is also called “casting” by artisans. The idea behind this method of coating is the same as with pouring cold water on top of hot wax: one material will be heavier than another, and the lighter material will float to the top.
If you’re not into mixing your own chemical compounds, no worries! There are other options that are just as safe and effective when it comes to creating a beautiful finish on your project. For example: clear enamel spray, clear gloss varnish, or clear acrylic spray.
How do you cover something with resin?
The best solution is to pour a thin layer of resin, let it cure, then add another layer of resin. If the first layer isn’t shiny enough, you can add a coat of glossy varnish or if it’s not clear enough, you can add a coat of clear gloss paint.
Once that has dried, you can use a spray sealant to secure the resin.
What can I use to make resin shiny?
There are several options for making epoxy resin shiny:
- Polishing kit
- Buffer (usually a Dremel)
- Buffing wheel
- Electric polisher (similar to an electric sander)
- Microfiber cloth
- Polishing compound
A buffing wheel is specifically designed to make resin shiny, while a buffer is usually used for wood and other materials.
The type of polishing you choose will depend on the size of your project, how many coats of resin there are, and the desired level of shine.
How do you make a resin coat?
Learn how to protect your resin creations with this clear resin top coat!
Materials:
- Rubbing alcohol (optional)
- Clear coat or spray lacquer or epoxy resin
- Paintbrush
First, clean the surface of your artwork with a cloth and rubbing alcohol. Next, apply a very thin layer of clear coat or spray lacquer or another type of topcoat onto the piece using a paintbrush.
It’s important for the coating to be very thin; any thicker and you’ll risk cracking the resin. Allow it to dry before handling it—this may take up to 24 hours.
