How to Make Resin Shiny: Tips and Tricks for a Glossy Finish

Making resin shiny is a crucial step in creating a beautiful and professional-looking project. Whether you're working with jewelry, art pieces, or other resin crafts, achieving a glossy finish can make all the difference. There are several methods to make resin shiny, and the right technique will depend on how scratched or dull is the resin and the desired finish.

One popular method to make resin shiny is to use a polishing compound. This involves applying a polishing compound to the surface of the resin and using a buffing wheel or cloth to buff the surface until it's smooth and shiny. Another method is to use a resin gloss sealer spray, which is a quick and easy way to add a glossy finish to your resin project. Simply spray the sealer onto the surface of the resin and allow it to dry. A third way of making resin shiny is simply by applying a thin coat of resin over the dull resin surface to make it shiny again.

For those looking for a more natural approach, using mineral oil or toothpaste can also be effective in making resin shiny. By applying a small amount of mineral oil or toothpaste to the surface of the resin and buffing it with a soft cloth, you can achieve a shiny finish without the need for any harsh chemicals or compounds. However, it's important to note that these methods may not be as long-lasting as other techniques, and may require more frequent touch-ups.

Preparing the Resin Surface

Cleaning the Surface

Before polishing the resin, it is important to clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dust, dirt or debris. Any impurities left on the surface can affect the final result and make it difficult to achieve a high-gloss finish. To clean the surface, follow these steps:

  • Use a clean, dry cloth to remove any loose dirt or debris.
  • Wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or debris.
  • Dry the surface with a clean, dry cloth.

Sanding the Surface

After cleaning the surface, it may be necessary to sand the resin to remove any scratches, bumps or imperfections. Sanding the surface will create a smooth, even surface that is easier to polish. To sand the surface, follow these steps:

  1. Use a fine-grit sandpaper (around 400 grit) to sand the surface in a circular motion.
  2. Wipe the surface with a clean, dry cloth to remove any dust or debris.
  3. Repeat the sanding process with a finer grit sandpaper (around 800 grit) to create an even smoother surface.
  4. Wipe the surface with a clean, dry cloth to remove any dust or debris.
  5. Continue the sanding process with finer grit sandpapers (1000, 1200, 1500, 2000, etc) until you get the smooth finish that you desire. You can even do the wet sanding process to give your resin piece the smoothest surface possible.

It is important to note that sanding the surface too much or with too coarse of a grit can damage the resin and make it difficult to achieve a smooth, glossy finish. 

If you are planning on just adding another thin coat of resin to your dull resin piece, then you don't need to get the surface of your resin piece completely smooth. Just sand it to create some grip for your resin top coat.

Here's a great video from Resin Obsession that shows how to properly sand epoxy resin.

Applying the Polish

Now that you have sanded your resin piece, it's time to apply the polish to give it a shiny finish. Here are some steps to follow:

Choosing the Right Polish

When choosing a polish, look for one that is specifically designed for resin. You want to use a fine scratch remover that will not damage the surface of your resin piece. Some popular options include Novus Fine Scratch Remover, PolyWatch, Flitz Polish, Yorkshire Grit Microfine Abrasive Paste, and Meguiar's PlastX.

It's important to note that some polishes may require the use of a buffing wheel or a power drill or rotary tool with a buffing attachment. Be sure to read the instructions carefully before purchasing a polish to ensure that you have the necessary tools to apply it.

Applying the Polish

Before applying the polish, make sure your resin piece is clean and free of any dust or debris. Apply a small amount of polish to a soft, lint-free cloth or microfiber towel.

Using a circular motion, gently rub the polish onto the surface of your resin piece. Apply the polish evenly and avoid applying too much pressure, as this can cause the polish to become too abrasive and damage the surface of your resin piece.

Continue to apply the polish until you achieve the desired level of shine. If you find that the polish is not providing enough shine, you may need to repeat the process with a different polish or a different buffing tool.

Once you have finished applying the polish, use a clean, dry cloth to buff the surface of your resin piece. This will remove any excess polish and leave behind a smooth, shiny finish.

Buffing the Resin

Using the Right Buffing Tool

You can also make resin shiny just by buffing it with rotary tool and a polishing wheel. Before buffing the resin, it is important to select the right buffing tool. A buffing wheel or polishing tool attached to a power drill or motor is recommended for best results. These tools can be found at most home improvement stores and automobile parts stores.

It is important to note that using the wrong buffing tool can result in damage to the resin. Avoid using abrasive materials or tools that are too rough. Always test the tool on a small, inconspicuous area of the resin before buffing the entire surface.

Buffing the Resin

Once the right buffing tool has been selected, it's time to start buffing the resin. Begin by cleaning the resin surface with a soft, clean cloth to remove any dust or debris. Apply a small amount of polishing compound to the buffing wheel or tool, and then move the wheel along the surface of the resin while it's spinning. 

The wheel or tool should be spun at around 1200rpm and moved in a circular motion along the surface of the resin while it's spinning.

Always keep the wheel moving in a circular motion and avoid applying too much pressure. Too much pressure can cause the resin to overheat and become damaged. Buff the resin in small sections, working your way across the entire surface until it is shiny and smooth.

After buffing, use a soft, clean cloth to remove any excess polishing compound from the resin surface. Inspect the surface for any remaining scratches or imperfections. If necessary, repeat the buffing process until the desired level of shine is achieved.

Maintaining the Shine

Avoiding Scratches

To keep your resin shiny, it is important to avoid scratches. Scratches can dull the shine and make your resin pieces look worn out. To avoid scratches, it is recommended to place your resin pieces in a safe place where they won't be bumped or scratched by other objects. If you need to transport your resin artwork, make sure to wrap it in a soft cloth or tissue paper to protect it from scratches.

Another way to avoid scratches is to apply a clear coat of resin sealer spray or a water-based polyurethane varnish. This will not only add an extra layer of protection but will also enhance the shine of your resin pieces. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying the sealer spray.

Cleaning the Resin

Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the shine of your resin artwork, jewelry, or furniture. To clean your resin pieces, use a soft cloth or sponge and warm, soapy water. Gently wipe the surface of the resin to remove any dirt or dust. Make sure to rinse the resin thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth or paper towel.

It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners as they can damage the resin and dull the shine. If you need to remove stubborn stains or marks, try using a mild soap or rubbing alcohol. Apply the soap or alcohol to a soft cloth and gently rub the affected area.

When cleaning your resin items, it is also important to avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight. These can cause the resin to yellow or become brittle, which can affect the shine and overall appearance of your resin finish.

Conclusion

A shiny resin look is not very hard to achieve if you do it right. It just requires a little bit of cleaning, some polishing, some buffing, maybe a little bit of protection, and some daily care to maintain the spectacular shine.

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