Once resin has cured properly, the finishing stage truly brings your piece to life. Whether you’re working on jewellery, coasters, model bases, or artwork, a few simple polishing techniques can transform a dull surface into a smooth, glassy finish.
Start by checking the cure. Resin should be completely hard before you sand it, usually after 24 to 48 hours, depending on the brand and temperature. If it still feels soft or rubbery, give it more time. Rushing this step can smear the surface and ruin the shine.
When it’s ready, begin sanding. Use wet-dry sandpaper and keep the surface damp to prevent heat build-up. Start around 400 grit to remove rough edges, then gradually move up through 800, 1200, and 2000 grit for a silky surface. If you’re polishing a flat piece, a sanding block helps maintain even pressure.
After sanding, wipe the resin clean with a soft cloth. You can then move on to polishing compounds. A small amount of automotive or plastic polish on a microfibre cloth works surprisingly well. Rub it in gentle circles until the surface becomes clear and glossy again. For larger pieces, a rotary buffer or Dremel with a felt pad saves time, but use a low speed to avoid overheating the resin.
For extra protection, some makers finish with a thin top coat of fresh resin. This fills tiny scratches and gives a deep, glass-like surface. Just ensure the original layer is fully cured and cleaned before pouring again.
Store finished pieces away from sunlight. UV light gradually yellows most resins, even those labelled non-yellowing. Keeping them out of direct sun helps preserve their clarity.
Finishing often makes the difference between a project that looks homemade and one that feels professional. It requires patience, but seeing a cloudy surface transform into a mirror-smooth shine makes it all worthwhile.
