Complete Resin Types Comparison 2025
The definitive comparison of all resin types for crafting projects. Compare epoxy, polyurethane, UV, and polyester resins with detailed specifications, costs, applications, and professional recommendations to choose the perfect resin for your project.
Quick Comparison Matrix
| Resin Type | Working Time | Max Pour Depth | Cost/Liter | UV Resistance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Epoxy Resin | 20-45 min | 6-12mm | $40-80 | Coating, jewelry, art | |
| Deep Pour Epoxy | 30-60 min | 25-50mm | $60-120 | River tables, thick pours | |
| Polyurethane | 3-8 min | 50-100mm | $35-70 | Fast casting, molds | |
| UV Resin | Unlimited* | 1-3mm | $80-150 | Small parts, jewelry | |
| Polyester Resin | 5-15 min | 20-30mm | $25-45 | Fiberglass, repairs |
*Until UV exposure. All working times at 20-25°C ambient temperature.
Detailed Resin Profiles
Standard Epoxy Resin
Technical Specifications:
Performance Characteristics:
Best Applications:
- • Jewelry and small castings
- • Surface coating and sealing
- • Art projects and embedding
- • Electronics encapsulation
Cost Analysis:
- • Entry level: $40-55/liter
- • Professional: $55-80/liter
- • Premium: $80-120/liter
- • Specialty: $120+/liter
Popular Brands:
- • ArtResin (premium)
- • EpoxyPlus (professional)
- • EnviroTex Lite (hobby)
- • Entropy Resins (eco)
Deep Pour Epoxy Resin
Technical Specifications:
Performance Characteristics:
Ideal For River Tables:
Specially formulated for thick pours up to 2 inches per layer. Perfect for river tables, live edge furniture, and artistic installations requiring deep, crystal-clear sections without bubble formation or heat cracking.
UV Curing Resin
Technical Specifications:
Unique Properties:
Perfect for Precision Work:
UV resin excels in jewelry making, miniatures, and detailed work where precision timing and fine detail reproduction are critical. The ability to cure on demand makes it ideal for assembly work and multi-step projects.
Resin Selection Guide
By Project Type
Jewelry Making
UV Resin or Standard Epoxy
For fine detail and small parts
River Tables
Deep Pour Epoxy
For thick sections without cracking
Coating Projects
Standard Epoxy
For bar tops, counters, artwork
Fast Production
Polyurethane or UV Resin
When speed is priority
By Experience Level
Beginner Friendly
Standard Epoxy (2:1 ratio)
Long working time, forgiving
Intermediate
Deep Pour Epoxy or UV Resin
More specialized applications
Advanced
Polyurethane or Specialty Resins
Fast working times, specific techniques
Professional
Application-Specific Selection
Based on performance requirements
Comprehensive Cost Analysis
Budget Option
$25-45
Polyester Resin
Basic projects, repairs
Standard
$40-80
Epoxy Resin
Most craft projects
Professional
$60-120
Deep Pour Epoxy
River tables, furniture
Premium
$80-150+
UV & Specialty
Precision work, specialty
Resin Selection FAQ
Which resin is best for beginners?
Standard 2:1 epoxy resin is most beginner-friendly due to its 20-45 minute working time, forgiving nature, and excellent final properties. Brands like EnviroTex Lite or ArtResin are excellent starting points.
Can I mix different types of resin?
Generally no. Different resin chemistries are incompatible and mixing them can result in poor curing, weak bonds, or complete failure. Stick to one resin type per project.
How do I choose between epoxy and polyurethane?
Choose epoxy for UV resistance, clarity, and surface coatings. Choose polyurethane for speed, thick castings, and when UV resistance isn't critical. Consider your working time needs and final application.
What's the shelf life of different resins?
Epoxy: 1-2 years unopened, UV: 6-12 months, Polyurethane: 6-12 months. Store in cool, dry places away from light. Always check expiration dates and test small batches if near expiry.
Calculate Your Resin Requirements
Use our professional calculators to determine exact quantities and costs for your project