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How do!

So I’m kind of getting into a new hobby of candle making. So far it’s pretty easy.

The molds I’ve got/will be getting a multipurpose silicon moulds, so I also want to expand to resin castings. I’ve had a browse online, and there are quite a few options out there, but I’m finding it difficult to assess each one.

I know some (all?) epoxy resins are thermosetting. If silicon moulds can stand up to that, I’m fine with it. But what I’m aiming for is to be able to make decorations for Christmas Trees - yes I know we’re barely into the new year, but even so.

Anyone got any pointers on what resin is best, even if it’s “by purpose”. My favourite mould so far is a fully 3D detailed vertical stack of skulls. The others I’ll have coming soon are more plaque style, with just detail on the one side. I plan to use the plaque ones to make the Christmas Decorations by embedding a looped treasury tag whilst it’s curing. Theory there is the built in bar will help prevent the loop just pulling out by giving it different anchor points.

Any and all advice, tips and pointers gratefully received

Hey Doc, I have used the materials from Specialty Resin for many years and depending on the finished product, you can have your finished pieces fairly flexible, long cure or slow cure. I have cast MANY pieces using this:
https://specialtyresin.com/product/model-pro-off-white-slow

They do have a faster cure, but you can really only use it for quick and small jobs, which might work for you:
https://specialtyresin.com/product/model-pro-off-white

I have also used their silicone rubber mold material and it is great:
https://specialtyresin.com/product/cast-a-mold-25t

You can find these on Amazon too, but will pay a bit more than from the company, while unclear about shipping overseas. There are lots of tips and tricks to casting and I am sure you can find demos and such. If looking for other brands, the viscosity is the key, so the lower the number the faster it will move and fill all of the tiny details. While the material above is really low and does not need a vacuum or pressure vat, just some vibration/tapping of the mold will get it all settled - just watch to undercuts and negative space where the resin cannot flow - in those cases I have flipped the mold around to get the inside coated really well before filling all the way. You can also use multiple fill points, etc.

Have fun!!

Groovy! I’ve scooted them an email to see if they ship to the U.K., or if they can send me a list of stockists who carry it over here.

Defo think a low viscosity is what I’m after.

I tried their flexible resin at 600 cps and it would not go into the thin or detailed areas of the molds. It might work with a vacuum chamber, but worked well for some large tile pieces that were fairly flat (about 8" x 8".) If rigid will work for you, I really like the quick cure stuff for small runs of smaller items - you just need to mix and pour super quick!! You can demold in about 15 minutes and pour another.