Plastic Molding to create resin items

Plastic molding most often refers to using various plastic molds to create resin items. With molds you can create your own resin jewelry, wall plaques or clocks, drawer handles, sun catchers, souvenirs, soaps, and even chocolates or cheese. PLEASE NOTE: it is imperative to use prominently marked FDA approved “food-safe” plastic molds when making food items. Using different combinations of resins, dyes, and artifacts to embed, you’ll be able to create beautiful resin items and jewelry limited only by your imagination and skill.

There are a multitude of plastic molds that you can buy ready-made, or you can make your own mold using Silicone or Latex Rubber. The actual molds used for plastic molding can be as simple and elegant, or as detailed and eye-catching as you imagine them to be. You can also embed charms or other unique artifacts in the resin in the plastic mold of your choice to make one-of-a-kind jewelry sets to match that special outfit or to surprise that special friend in your life.

These durable reusable molds come in self-releasing polypropylene and polyethylene plastic molding, used with clear polyester resin or an epoxy resin like Resin Obsession SuperClear.  Although considered self-releasing, the use of a mold release/conditioner when casting resin is highly recommended to clean, condition, and extend the life of your molds. Odorless and solvent-free, Castin'Craft Mold Release Conditioner is most often suggested by many experienced resin crafters. A more advanced type of Mold release is the Ultra 4 mold release.

It is simple to make your own jewelry with plastic molding and resin. It is, of course, always a good idea to protect your work area with freezer paper, waxed paper or trash bag. By first removing any dust or accumulated dirt from the mold, then simply spraying the mold with mold release/conditioner, you’ll be ready to begin. After placing the treated mold on a level surface, fill the mold cavities to just below the top. Once the pieces are cured, simply flip the plastic molding tray over, and press the center of each piece to release it, flexing the mold if necessary.

Depending on the type of resin used, it is recommended to warm the Silicone Molding Trays before using them. Since many plastic resins are heat-producing, heating the mold just prior to filling it can reduce the curing time—a major consideration if you are making a quantity of serial casts in one session.

Depending on the items you wish to make, there are many ready-made plastic molds available for you to use. ResinObsession is an online store started by Cindy, the ResinLady, who makes gorgeous resin jewelry and crafts. She stocks a large inventory of many different types of plastic molding for you to choose from, mold-making materials for you to create your own molds, or Cindy will be happy to custom make a mold for you. If you have any problems or questions concerning your resin project, don’t hesitate to contact Katherine. She loves resin in its many forms—and she’s very happy to share her knowledge with other resin crafters, no matter your skill level.