When it comes to beautifully protecting your artwork or creating stunning resin art, it is imperative that you use an epoxy resin that is specially formulated for ARTISTS!
It is crucial that the resin is easy to use, is UV resistant, has Zero VOCs (zero volatile organic compounds) to prevent health issues, is self-leveling, dries crystal clear, and has a long working time so you can have more time for the creative process.
In this post you will learn which are 5 of the best artists resin brands in the market.
#1. Liquid Art Ultra UV Epoxy by KS Resin
Liquid Art Ultra UV Epoxy from KS Resin is a great resin! It is a two part clear epoxy resin system specially formulated for creating art work.
It is heat resistant (up to 475 degrees F), has excellent UV resistance, cures in 7 days, has a 30-45 min working time, has no VOCs and low fumes, it is non-flammable, it is self-leveling, and it dries glassy clear!
I LOVE this resin.
Mixing ratio by volume is 1 to 1.
The manufacturing company recommends the ambient temperature during pouring and curing to be 65-75° F.
One of the things that I like the most about the Liquid Art Ultra UV Epoxy is that it includes additional hindered amine light stabilizers to ensure that your art work has a long lasting lifespan.
#2. Stone Coat Epoxy by Stone Coat Countertops
Stone Coat Epoxy from Stone Coat Countertops is my second choice when it comes to choosing an art resin. It is an epoxy resin that was formulated specifically for countertops but can also be used for art pieces such as coasters, trays, and any other type of artwork that needs some sort of heat resistance.
Like every epoxy resin from Stone Coat Countertops, Stone Coat Epoxy has zero VOCs, is UV stable, and is scratch-resistant. The cure time is about 6 - 8 hours and heat-resistant up to 500° Fahrenheit once cured!
It is self-leveling, has an extended working time of about 45 minutes, and dries with a beautiful high gloss finish.
Pour equal parts of the Resin and Hardener (using a 1:1 ratio by volume).
Stone Coat Epoxy will dry to the touch in 24 hours, very hard in 7 days, and will have full heat and UV resistance in 30 days. Light use can be started after 72 hours of cure time.
If you want an art resin that is durable, food-safe, and creates amazing projects that will last for years to come, then Stone Coat Epoxy from Stone Coat Countertops is a perfect choice!
Stone Coat Countertops also has an Art Coat Epoxy which is formulated specifically for artists, however, they currently don't offer it on Amazon. If you want to purchase this resin, then you have to go to their main website.
The thing I love about this Art Coat Epoxy is that it has Ultra UV Protection and it is formulated specifically to create beautiful artwork!
I also love that they have FREE step-by-step instructional videos on how to use all of their resins, including Art Coat. Here is a video that might be helpful.
#3. Art Resin
Art Resin, another fantastic resin made in the USA, is vastly used by many artists.
It is a little more expensive than other art resins but worth the price!
ArtResin has advanced UV and HALS stabilization additives that provide superior, long-term clarity, and provide unparalleled yellowing protection.
Because it has no VOCs, no BPA, and no fumes, Art Resin is safe for home use when used in a well-ventilated area.
It has an easy 1:1 mixing ratio by volume, is self-leveling, is non-flammable, dries with a high gloss, is certified food safe, and is specially formulated for art.
It's long working time of 40-60 minutes (at 72-77 degrees Fahrenheit) allow plenty of time to get your project done just the way you want it!
Expect a hard cure in 24 hours and full cure in 72 hours.
#4. Naked Fusion
Naked Fusion is a superior resin for artists and craftsmen. It is proudly made in the USA with the highest quality ingredients without cheap fillers and additives.
This non-toxic artist resin dries with a high gloss mirror shine. It creates beautiful cells and makes stunning effects that you will love!
It's longer than 45 minute working time is great for the creative process.
Because it is BPA free, it means it is food safe (as long as you let the resin fully cure for 72 hours). Use it on counter tops, platters, tumblers, cutting boards and other kitchen items. You can also use it for geode paintings, resin art, resin jewelry, coating acrylic pour paintings, coasters, and more!
Enjoy a UV and scratch resistant resin that has Zero Vocs, is odor free, is self-leveling, and has fantastic color stability to preserve the rich colors of your artwork and produce high end products.
Naked Fusion is heat resistant up to 145 F.
Easy 1 to 1 ratio makes measuring and mixing much easier.
#5. Master Cast 1-2-1 by Eli-Chem
Master Cast 1-2-1 from Eli-Chem is another great resin. It is not very widely known here in the USA since Eli-Chem is a UK based company (with worldwide shipping). Their resin is now easily available in the USA through Amazon.
When artists like Rinske Douna use and recommend Master Cast 1-2-1, you know that it is a good product!
This two component epoxy resin produces a high gloss crystal clear finish, is almost odor free, is non-flammable, has a working time of about 30 minutes, dries to the touch after 3-4 hours (which is amazing), cures in 6-8 hours (at 68 degrees Fahrenheit), and is particularly suited for resin art since it utilizes the most up to date UV inhibitors/blockers to help preserve your artwork.
Please note this resin is heat resistant (up to 122 degrees F), and has a higher viscosity and a thicker consistency than other resins.
This resin has an easy 1:1 mix ratio by volume.
Which Resin is Best?
These are my 5 favorite artist resins and also the favorite of other artists like Rinske Douna, Mixed Media Girl, Molly's Artistry, and Tammy Anderson.
Which one is best for you depends on what you want to create with it. Some resins have better heat resistance than others, some have longer working times than others, etc. So choose the one that suites your needs!
If you are uncomfortable working with resin and want to start by using a safe resin alternative, then check out my post "Resin Alternative: Best Options for Acrylic Pouring".
Let me know in the comments below which resin or resin alternative you plan on using for your next project!
I have started using a brand called Craft Resin. The viscosity is nice and it dries crystal clear in 24 hours.
That’s great Judy! I’ll have to give it a try.
That is awesome Judy. I recently started trying out a new brand called Epodex. I like it so far. It is a little less viscous than other resins but it has a very long working time, dries crystal clear, and is relatively inexpensive compared to other brands. There are a lot of good resin brands on the market.