Epoxy Resin vs UV Resin: Which Should You Use?

Posted by

Haanz Team

2026-10-23

On 2026-10-23

Haanz Art GuideFree, practical advice from the team at Haanz Art & Craft Materials

Epoxy resin vs UV resin is the first big question for anyone starting resin art. Both give a clear, glossy finish, but they work in very different ways and suit different projects. This Haanz Art Guide explains how each type cures, what each is good for, the tools you need and how to choose the right one for your first project.

Epoxy resin vs UV resin at a glance

Mixing: epoxy is two parts (resin and hardener) that you measure and mix. UV resin is one part, ready to use from the bottle.
Curing: epoxy cures by a chemical reaction over hours or days. UV resin cures in minutes under a UV lamp.
Layer depth: epoxy suits larger and deeper pours such as coasters and trays. UV resin works in thin layers, because the light must reach through it.
Project size: UV resin is ideal for small items like earrings, pendants and keychains. Epoxy is better for anything bigger than your palm.
Equipment: UV resin needs a UV lamp. Epoxy needs measuring cups and stirrers.

When to use UV resin

UV Resin 50g is a single-part resin that cures in minutes under a UV lamp, with no mixing needed. It is great for:

Small jewellery: earrings, pendants, rings and charms.
Filling open frames and bezels, sealed on the back with UV Tape Roll.
Quick fixes and doming a thin top coat on a finished piece.
Beginners who want fast results without measuring.

You will need a lamp such as the UV Light, Desktop Small 15W or the Hand Held UV Light (Heavy). Pour in thin layers of a few millimetres and cure each layer before adding the next. Thick layers may stay soft inside.

When to use epoxy resin

FUJIN 1:1 Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin, 100ml + 100ml has an easy 1:1 mixing ratio by volume and a high-gloss, self-levelling finish. Choose epoxy for:

Coasters, trays, wall clocks and bookends.
Pours with dried flowers, glitter or mica powder spread through a larger piece.
Ocean, geode and marble effects that need time to flow.
Bigger projects: the FUJIN 1:1 Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin, 500ml + 500ml gives you more to work with.

Measure carefully with an Epoxy Mixing Cup and stir slowly with a Silicone Mixing Stick. Most craft epoxies are 1:1 or 2:1 by volume, so always follow the ratio and cure times on your pack. Epoxy usually needs a day or more before you can demould, and longer to cure fully.

See all types in Epoxy Resins, UV Resins and tools in Other Resin Materials. Prices change, so see each product page for today’s price.

How to choose: three quick questions

How big is your piece? Smaller than a coin or a pendant: UV resin. Coaster size or larger: epoxy.
How deep is the pour? A thin layer: UV resin. A deeper mould: epoxy, poured in the layer depth your pack allows.
How much time do you have? Want it done today: UV resin. Happy to wait a day or two: epoxy.

Many crafters keep both. They use epoxy for the main pour and UV resin for small repairs, sealing and jewellery.

Safety for both types

Work in a well-ventilated room with a window open or a fan moving air out.
Wear nitrile gloves and avoid getting resin on your skin. Wash skin with soap and water if you do.
Never look straight into a UV lamp.
Cover your table, and keep resin away from children, pets and food areas.

Read the full Resin Safety Guide, then try UV Resin Guide for Beginners or Resin Art for Beginners in Sri Lanka.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use UV resin in a large coaster mould?

It is not a good idea. UV light cannot reach deep into thick resin, so a large pour may stay soft in the middle. Use epoxy for coasters.

Does UV resin need sunlight?

Sunlight contains UV and can cure it slowly, but a UV lamp is faster and more even. Most crafters use a lamp for reliable results.

Do you deliver islandwide?

Yes. We deliver across Sri Lanka in 2–5 working days, with cash on delivery, card or bank transfer. You can also visit our shops in Boralesgamuwa and Horana, open every day from 9 AM to 6 PM.

Not sure what to choose? Call / WhatsApp the Haanz team on 0711 515 515 and we’ll help you choose between epoxy and UV resin for your first project.

More Haanz Art Guides