How to Create and Make Money Using Resin Jewelry

Course Description:

This hands-on course teaches students how to create beautiful resin-based jewelry—such as pendants, earrings, rings, and bangles—and turn those creations into income. Students will learn about mold making, embedding techniques, coloring, curing, and also explore low-cost alternatives to expensive tools.

Beyond the crafting process, students will explore branding, pricing, and online/offline marketing, gaining the skills needed to sell their creations at markets or through digital platforms.

Learning Outcomes:

Students will:

• Understand resin safety and workspace preparation

• Learn to design and make resin jewelry with natural or artistic inclusions

• Explore simple molding and curing processes

• Develop small-scale branding and marketing strategies

• Produce and document original pieces

• Learn how to package, price, and sell their work

Materials Needed:

• Epoxy resin and hardener

• Mixing cups and wooden stirrers

• Jewelry molds (can be silicone molds, DIY paper/cardboard molds lined with tape)

• Protective gloves, mask, and apron (resin can be toxic before curing)

• Toothpicks or tweezers (for placing inclusions)

• Jewelry findings: hooks, chains, jump rings, earring posts

• Optional: dried flowers, beads, glitter, spices, sand, tiny shells, thread, seeds

• Pigments: mica powder, acrylic paint, or food coloring (used sparingly)

Step-by-Step Process:

Prepare Your Workspace

• Work in a well-ventilated area with newspaper/plastic cover

• Wear gloves and a mask (uncured resin can irritate skin and lungs)

• Keep a level surface for molds to sit on while curing

Design Your Jewelry Piece

• Sketch the shape and decoration

• Decide what to embed (ex: flower, bead, leaf, photo clipping)

• Choose mold that matches your vision (heart, circle, teardrop, etc.)

Mix the Resin

• Follow your resin’s instructions: usually 1 part resin : 1 part hardener

• Stir gently for 3–5 minutes (too fast = bubbles)

• Add color pigments if desired

Pour the First Layer

• Pour a small layer into the mold (~half full)

• Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to reduce bubbles

Add Inclusions

• Use tweezers to carefully place items in the half-filled mold

• Tap or swirl slightly to remove air pockets

• Pour more resin over until full

Cure

• Let the mold sit for 24–48 hours (depending on resin type)

• Do not move or touch until fully hardened

Demold and Finish

• Gently pop the piece out of the mold

• Sand sharp edges with fine sandpaper

• Attach findings: drill small holes for hooks or glue earring posts

Package and Present

• Create DIY packaging (recycled paper, boxes, cloth wrap)

• Take clear photos in natural light for sales purposes

Making Money With Resin Jewelry:

Where to Sell:

• Local artisan markets or tourist stands

• WhatsApp or Facebook marketplace

• Instagram or TikTok (use video!)

• Etsy or Jumia (if available in your region)

• Partner with local boutiques or gift shops

Entrepreneurship Tips:

• Make sets or custom orders for special occasions (weddings, birthdays)

• Use free apps to make a simple brand logo

• Offer “nature collections” with local seeds, sand, or herbs

• Bundle pieces or sell in eco-friendly packaging

• Reinvest profits into materials for expansion

Assignment

Submit a 1-page essay explaining what you believe are the easiest and the most difficult steps in doing this project. Also, explain who in your community might want this, and how is it useful to your community?