What Is UV Resin Layering?
UV resin layering is a technique where clear resin is cured in multiple thin stages to build up depth, encase objects, or create three-dimensional effects. Each layer is cured under UV light before adding the next.
| Item |
Use |
Notes |
| UV Resin |
Main medium |
Choose crystal clear or doming type |
| UV Lamp |
Cures each resin layer |
36W+ recommended for efficient curing |
| Silicone Mold |
Holds resin during curing |
Flexible for easy demolding |
| Toothpick / Spatula |
Spreads resin or removes bubbles |
Use plastic or silicone tools |
| Glitters / Inclusions |
Embedded materials |
Dried flowers, beads, charms, foil |
| Protective Gloves |
Skin safety |
Nitrile preferred |
| Alcohol Spray |
Pops bubbles on surface |
Use 90%+ isopropyl alcohol |
| Face Mask |
For ventilation and odor |
Especially for enclosed spaces |
UV Resin Layering Workflow
| Step |
Description |
Tip |
| 1. Pour Thin Base Layer |
~1–2 mm clear resin |
Cure fully before adding anything |
| 2. Embed First Object |
Place item gently into tacky or cured base |
Don’t press too hard |
| 3. Cover with Resin |
Add thin layer above object |
Avoid air bubbles |
| 4. Cure Under UV Lamp |
1–2 min per layer |
Rotate if lamp isn’t overhead |
| 5. Repeat for Layers |
Build gradually |
Cure each layer separately |
| 6. Finish with Doming Layer |
Round, glossy top finish |
Add clear resin last and cure fully |
Cure Time Guidelines
| Resin Layer Thickness |
Estimated Cure Time (36–54W UV Lamp) |
Notes |
| 1 mm or less |
1–2 minutes |
Very fast cure |
| 2–3 mm |
2–3 minutes |
Cure both sides if possible |
| 4 mm or more (Not recommended in one layer) |
Layer instead |
Avoid thick pour to prevent bubbles |
| Doming Layer |
2–4 minutes |
Ensure strong surface light |
Common Inclusions & Embedding Tips
| Object Type |
Layer Position |
Notes |
| Dried Flowers |
Middle or top |
Press flat and dry thoroughly first |
| Glitter & Foil |
Mix into any layer |
Use sparingly to avoid cloudiness |
| Charms / Beads |
Middle layers |
Embed in partially cured resin to hold |
| Printed Paper |
Mid-layer |
Seal with packing tape or Mod Podge |
| Glow Powder |
Bottom or center |
Mix well into resin |
| Resin Stickers |
Surface or dome |
Cure fully and dome to seal edges |
Surface Finishing Options
| Finish Type |
Description |
How-To |
| Glossy Dome |
Shiny rounded surface |
Add final thick clear layer |
| Matte Finish |
Soft-touch effect |
Sand with fine grit and finish spray |
| Polished Clear |
Smooth glass-like finish |
Sand > polish with resin compound |
| Backed with Colour |
Opaque bottom for clarity |
Use white/black resin or colored clay |
Troubleshooting
| Issue |
Cause |
Solution |
| Sticky Surface |
Under-cured or thick pour |
Cure longer, work in thinner layers |
| Bubbles in Layers |
Trapped air or over-mixing |
Pour slowly, use heat or alcohol spray |
| Cloudy Resin |
Moisture or bad mixing |
Use dry inclusions, avoid water-based inks |
| Layer Separation |
Incomplete curing between layers |
Ensure full cure before next layer |
| Yellowing Over Time |
UV exposure or poor-quality resin |
Store in dark place, use high-quality resin |
Beginner Project Ideas
| Project |
Materials Used |
Tips |
| Layered Pendant |
Foil, dried flowers, glitter |
Cure between each addition |
| Mini Diorama Keychain |
Charms, tiny figures, stickers |
Use tweezers for small placement |
| Galaxy Cabochon |
Black resin, glitter, mica |
Build star layers gradually |
| Pressed Flower Ring |
Clear mold, tiny dried flowers |
Seal flower with top coat layer |
| UV Resin Bookmark |
Open mold, flat objects, stickers |
Dome final layer for smooth feel |
Safety & Storage
| Tip |
Why It’s Important |
| Work in a ventilated area |
UV resin can emit fumes |
| Wear gloves and mask |
Prevent skin and inhalation exposure |
| Cure thoroughly |
Uncured resin can remain toxic |
| Store resin in cool dark place |
Light or heat degrades resin |
| Clean spills immediately |
UV resin hardens fast once exposed |
FAQ
Can I use a flashlight to cure UV resin?
Yes, but it must be a UV light (365–405 nm range). Curing may take longer.
Why is my resin tacky after curing?
Either the light is too weak, layer is too thick, or it hasn’t fully cured.
How many layers is too many?
There’s no hard limit, but very thick pieces should be layered carefully to avoid internal stress or distortion.
Can I use UV resin outdoors?
Yes, but avoid direct sunlight during layering—UV light may cure it too fast and unevenly.