Resin can sometimes be a bit finnicky to work with. I myself often struggle with properly curing my projects despite following instructions verbatim. So if you’re looking for resin alternatives for cosplay, you’ve come to the right place. These options can serve as great replacements.
Resin Alternatives
- Modge Podge Dimensional Magic – This alternative is a one part acrylic sealer. It also has the glossy finish of resin products and can also work as a great aid in resin projects for touch ups and the final layers.
- Pros: Glossy finish, easy to apply, quick dry time, less expensive, less hazardous
- Cons: Less durable
- Tri-Art Liquid Glass – This option was specifically made to be a resin alternative. It is also a pouring medium that’s great for mixing with fluid acrylics and have a smooth, glossy finish once poured.
- Pros: Faster dry time, Less hazardous, glossy finish
- Cons: Less durable
- Liquitex Pouring Medium – This can be mixed with acrylic paints to color it as you please and poured to create a glossy, wet look like resin. Liquitex does also have their own line of paints.
- Pros: Faster dry time, Less hazardous, glossy finish
- Cons: Less durable
- Dimensional Glaze – This is a water-based gel that dries clear. It has a syrup like consistency and dries differently than resin since it can often shrink. It may stay slightly milky after drying and thus may not shine with glitter or mica powders.
- Pros: Less hazardous
- Cons: Slower dry times, doesn’t mix as well with mica powders and glitters, less durable, absorbs humidity
- Liquid Clay – This is just a liquid version of your standard polymer clay. You have to heat it for curing and it will have a somewhat cloudy finish unlike which is typically glossy.
- Pros: Easy to work with, durable, can be glossy, can be rebaked, magnifies glitters and shines
- Cons: Needs a heat gun, easy to get air bubbles
- Varnish – Glaze, sealer or varnish is a clear sealer for woods or acrylic paints. The thickness is a thinner since it’s intended purpose is for just coating surfaces. This makes it better for final layers or touch ups.
- Pros: Moderate durability, glossy, less expensive
- Cons: Thin, film-forming cause accent imperfections
Resin Alternatives Safety Vs. Time
| Material | Safe? | Cure Time |
| Epoxy Resin | Toxic and produces fumes | 24 – 72 hour cure |
| Modge Podge Dimensional Magic | Non-toxic, fume-free and water-based | Several hours |
| Tri-Art Liquid Glass | Non-toxic and water-based | 72 hour cure |
| Liquitex Pouring Medium | Non-toxic and water-based | 24 hours or 2-3 days for full cure |
| Dimensional Glaze | Non-toxic and water-based | 72 hour cure |
| Liquid Clay | Non-toxic and water-based | Cured via baking in minutes |
| Varnish | Low toxicity | 1-3 days to cure |
What is the Safest Resin Alternative for Home Workshops
Because they are non-toxic, fume-free and water based, Mode Podge dimensional magic, Tri-Art liquid glass, liquitex pouring medium and liquid clay are all the safest resin alternative for home workshops.
Can You Achieve a Clear Finish Without Using Resin
It is possible to achieve a clear finish without UV or epoxy resin. By using alternatives such as high-gloss varnish, dimensional clay or clear coats, you can reach a clear finish.
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