How to Use Glitter in Resin
Glitter and resin are a match made in sparkle heaven. Whether you're making keychains, coasters, ornaments or trinket dishes, a little glitter turns a simple piece into something magical. Here's how to get it right.
What you'll need
- Epoxy resin and hardener (follow your brand's mixing ratio)
- Silicone moulds
- Your glitter (fine, chunky or both)
- Mixing cups and stir sticks
- Gloves, a protected work surface and good ventilation
Three ways to add glitter
1. Mix it all through
Stir fine or ultra-fine glitter straight into your mixed resin for an all-over shimmer. Start with a small pinch and add more until you like the look. A little goes a long way.
2. Let it float
For chunky glitter that looks suspended inside the piece, pour a thin layer of resin, let it thicken slightly, sprinkle in your glitter, then pour the next layer on top. Thicker resin holds the pieces in place instead of letting them sink.
3. Dust the mould first
Brush fine glitter into the inside of an empty mould before pouring. It sticks to the surface and gives a smooth, sparkly outer layer, which is perfect for ornaments and shapes.
Which glitter should you use?
- Fine and ultra-fine: best for an even shimmer or a coloured, glowing effect
- Chunky: best for statement pieces where you want to see each sparkle floating
- Holographic and iridescent: catch the light beautifully through clear resin
Our top tips
- Mix the resin properly first, then add glitter. Glitter won't fix resin that's under-mixed.
- Don't overload it. Too much glitter can stop resin curing properly and makes it cloudy.
- Pop bubbles with a heat gun or lighter passed quickly over the surface.
- Layer fine under chunky for depth, using a fine glitter base with chunky pieces on top.
- Always follow your resin's safety instructions, and work in a well-ventilated space.
Ready to make something sparkly? Browse our glitter range, or read our guide to fine vs chunky glitter.
All our glitters are craft glitters, made for craft and DIY projects.