Making DIY Custom Magnets with Epoxy Resin

Fridge magnets are more than just functional reminders. They add a touch of personality to your kitchen décor, hold up precious memories, or even serve as unique handmade gifts. But why settle for store-bought magnets when you explore your creativity and craft your own with the magic of epoxy resin?

Epoxy resin offers a versatile and beginner-friendly way to create stunning custom magnets. This blog will guide you through the process, from gathering materials to the final sparkling finish. To learn more about such techniques, enrol in a resin art workshop. 

Safety First!

Before we dive in, remember that epoxy resin can be irritating. Here's what you'll need to prioritise safety:

• Work in a well-ventilated area. Open windows or use a fan to keep fumes at bay.
• Wear protective gear. If you are working with a large amount of resin, wear gloves, safety glasses, and a respirator.
• Protect your workspace. Cover your crafting surface with newspaper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.

Gather Your Supplies for Making Custom Magnets

Now for the fun part - assembling your crafting arsenal! Here's a list of essentials:

• Epoxy Resin and Hardener: Choose a high-quality brand suitable for casting.
• Silicone Moulds: Explore a variety of shapes and sizes to match your magnet vision. Think of hearts, flowers, geometric shapes, or even letters to spell out words.
• Magnets: You can find small circular magnets or sheets with adhesive backing at craft stores.
• Nitrile Gloves: Protect your hands while handling the resin.
• Mixing Cups and Stir Sticks: Disposable options work well.
• Alcohol Inks or Mica Powders: Add vibrant colours to your resin.
• Optional Embellishments: Get creative! Dried flowers, glitter, small figurines, or even tiny photos can be embedded in the resin.
• Droppers or Syringes: For precise application of colourants and minor embellishments.
• Heat Gun (Optional): Helps remove air bubbles from the resin for a flawless finish.
• Sandpaper (Optional): This smooths rough edges after the resin cures.

A Step-by-Step Guide for Making Custom Magnets

1. Prepare your Mould: If you are using a new mould, clean it with rubbing alcohol to remove dust or residue.
2. Mix the Resin: Following the manufacturer's instructions, carefully measure and mix the ingredients in their designated ratios.
3. Colouring Your Canvas: Here comes the fun part! Put a few drops of alcohol ink or mica powder to your desired shade and stir gently to avoid creating air bubbles.
4. Time to Embellish (Optional): Use tweezers to place your embellishments carefully into the mould.
5. Pouring the Resin: Slowly pour the coloured resin into the mould, filling it to about ¾ capacity.
6. Banishing the Bubbles: Use a toothpick or a craft stick to gently stir the resin and break any air bubbles that may have formed. A heat gun is also useful for stubborn bubbles.
7. Attaching the Magnet: 

Option 1: If using a mould with a designated indentation for the magnet, carefully place the magnet into the indentation before pouring the resin. 

Option 2: If your mould doesn't have a designated spot, wait until the resin cures ultimately, then adhere the magnet to the back of the cured magnet using strong craft glue.

1. Curing Time: Let your masterpiece cure. The specific curing time required for your chosen resin brand can be found in the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Demolding and Finishing Touches: Once fully cured, gently peel the magnet away from the mould. If needed, use sandpaper to file any rough edges.

Congratulations! You've just created a one-of-a-kind custom magnet that reflects your unique style.

Pro Tips for Making Custom Magnets

• Work in small batches: It's easier to manage smaller quantities of resin to minimise waste, especially when starting out.
• Layer it Up: For a more dimensional effect, you can pour the resin in layers, adding embellishments between pours.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't flawless. Experiment with different techniques and have fun with the process!
• Clean Up is Key: Clean your tools and workspace thoroughly with rubbing alcohol before and after each use.

With some creativity and these handy tips, you'll be crafting stunning custom epoxy resin magnets in no time. So unleash your inner artist, personalise your

Creative Techniques with Epoxy Resin Magnets

Now that you've mastered the basics of crafting custom epoxy resin magnets let's delve into some exciting techniques to elevate your creations:

1. Metallic Marvels

• Metallic Pigments: Metallic pigments add a touch of luxury. They come in a variety of colours, such as gold, silver, copper, and even holographic. A little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and gradually add more until you achieve the desired effect.
• Metal Flakes: For a more dramatic look, incorporate real metal flakes, such as gold or silver leaf. These can be scattered on the poured resin or embedded within layers for a captivating 3D effect.

2. Nature's Touch

• Dried Flowers and Leaves: Pressed flowers, tiny leaves, or even small twigs can add a beautiful organic element to your magnets. Experiment with various sizes, shapes, and colours to create a miniature botanical scene within your resin.
• Beach Treasures: Turn tiny seashells, pebbles, or even a sprinkle of sand into keepsakes from your favourite beach trip. These natural elements add a hint of coastal charm to your magnets.

3. Alcohol Ink Magic

• The Swirling Technique: Instead of thoroughly mixing the alcohol ink into the resin, pour a small amount of uncoloured resin into the mould. Then, strategically drip drops of different coloured alcohol inks onto the surface. Use a toothpick or straw to swirl the colours without overmixing for a mesmerising marbled effect.
• The Dirty Pour: This technique involves layering different coloured alcohol inks directly into the mould without pre-mixing them. The result is a beautiful and unpredictable flow of colours that creates a unique design for each magnet.

4. Photo Magnets with a Twist

• Resin as a Photo Enhancer: Incorporate small photos, drawings, or printed quotes into your magnet design. The transparent resin acts like a magnifying glass, creating a stunning depth and glossy finish.
• Partial Photo Exposure: Remove a specific shape from your chosen photo and layer it onto the mould for a more artistic effect. Pour the resin partially over the photo, revealing only a portion of the image for an intriguing look.

Remember: When working with photos, use high-quality laser jet prints on waterproof paper to ensure they don't bleed or smudge the resin.

Conclusion