Talk Composites - The Forum for Advanced Composites

UV high gloss finish on resin jewellery

http://www.talkcomposites.com/Topic24751.aspx

By Wends151 - 12/27/2017 9:38:42 AM

Hi
I’ve been making a load of things (mostly rings) with either epoxy and/or PU resin. Some clear with inclusions and some opaque and some a mixture of the two. My questions concern the finishing of them. I understand epoxy resin isn’t UV resistant so clear would yellow over a period of time. Also, I find that I don’t always get the best finish when using silicone moulds. Therefore I need to coat each piece with a clear coat or a lacquer. I’ve had a look on EC website and forum and have found several possibilities. But which one would be best for my purpose?

1. A resin clear coat. Would I sand the piece then apply this to one side, let this dry then apply to the other side? Can it be painted on without brush marks? Can I then buff it on a buffing wheel?

2. GC50. Does this work on the same principle as a resin clear coat as above? Again would I apply it in sections, can it be painted on without brush marks and can it be buffed on a wheel?

3. I’ve also read on here about a 2 part clear lacquer used on cars. Is this just a general acrylic or is there a specific one that I should be looking for? What does the ‘2 part’ refer to? Would it bond ok with PU and epoxy?

Basically, im looking for the best method for UV protecting as well as achieving a high gloss finish on small jewellery pieces? I know some puritans out there may well suggest going through the sandpaper grits but I’ve tried this and it takes far too long with only barely adequate results?!

Hoping someone can point me in the right direction. Much appreciated. X
By Wends151 - 1/4/2018 10:30:21 AM

Many thanks Matt. I appreciate your reply. Looks like a bit of experimentation is in order like you suggest. I think I’ll order the recommended foam pads for my Dremel so I can see how they perform with the NW1 and what ‘action’ I’m looking for. Then I can compare it to some wheel mops.