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

Final Assignment:

• Create 3 original resin jewelry pieces

• Submit photos with pricing and branding idea

• Write a 1-page plan: “How I will sell my resin jewelry in my town or online”