Your First Resin Art Project: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
A simple resin coaster is the ideal first project: mix resin and hardener accurately by weight, pour into a silicone coaster mould, remove bubbles with a heat gun or torch within the first 10 minutes, then let it cure undisturbed for 24-72 hours before demoulding. The whole active process takes under 30 minutes.
Based on hands-on resin work by practising Indian artists, written for someone starting from zero.
What You'll Need
See our full starter list — for this project specifically, you need resin and hardener, a digital scale, a coaster silicone mould, mixing cups, gloves, and a heat gun or torch.
Step-by-Step
- Put on gloves and set up in a ventilated space, ideally with a respirator if you have one
- Weigh resin and hardener according to your brand's exact ratio
- Mix slowly and thoroughly for the full recommended time (usually 3-5 minutes)
- Add colour (mica powder or liquid pigment) if desired, and mix again gently
- Pour into your coaster mould, close to the surface to avoid new air bubbles
- Pass a heat gun or torch lightly over the surface to pop bubbles
- Cover loosely to keep dust off and let cure undisturbed for 24-72 hours
- Demould carefully once fully cured, and sand any rough edges if needed
Mixing a tiny extra amount alongside your main pour lets you check how your specific resin brand behaves before committing to the full project.
What to Expect from Your First Attempt
Minor imperfections — a few small bubbles, slightly uneven colour distribution — are completely normal on a first attempt. Most beginners see a noticeable improvement by their second or third piece as they get a feel for their specific resin's working time.