In this post I’m making resin art with eyeshadow from Dollar Tree to see if this can replace mica powder.
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Resin is used in many types of art, from creating functional bowls and dishes to decorative boards covered in beautifully poured resin.
This hobby can be expensive, so I’m always on the lookout for ways to bring my costs down.
Today, I’m testing Dollar Tree eyeshadow in place of traditional mica powder. I’m looking to add an opaque color to a set of letters. Then I’m going to use some Dollar Tree glitter to add an accent color.
If you like resin crafts, make sure to check out How to Pour Resin on Wood for Beginners.
I like using this two-part epoxy resin, it mixes easily and comes out very clear. You can also find resin supplies, including what I am using here, at your local craft store.
A very important reminder. When working with resin, always remember to protect your hands. I always wear disposable gloves. Cover your work surface, and have a few plastic cups and spoons nearby for mixing. Be sure to work in a very well-ventilated area to avoid breathing in all the fumes. Once your work area is set and you are protected, it’s time to start mixing the resin.
Epoxy resin comes in two parts, A and B. You want to pour equal parts in a one-to-one ratio. Once you have equal parts in each cup, you can carefully pour one into the other. Then mix slowly.
Make sure to set a timer to about 5 minutes to make sure it is well mixed. Mix slow enough to avoid any bubbles from forming. Mix long enough to make sure no lines are present. I do like to scrape the bottoms and sides occasionally to get everything properly mixed.
The eyeshadow for this project is a metallic shimmer. When opening these up, you can just get rid of the brush, you won’t need it. Pour the eyeshadow into the resin cup and mix some more until it’s combined.
Already I’m liking the color of this resin. The eyeshadow gives it a white color with a pearlescent finish.
For this project, I am using this alphabet mold. It came with the full alphabet and a few extra shapes. I chose to spell my daughter’s name with this project.
When choosing a mold you want a silicone mold with a shiny interior, this ensures that the finished pieces will release easily.
Before pouring any resin into the alphabet molds, I sprinkled in some dollar tree glitter and used a plastic knife to spread throughout the letters I was using. The glitter should stay in place, so I’m spreading it around exactly where I want it.
Next, to prevent splashing I transferred some of the mixture into a smaller cup that makes getting it into the letters easier. Then, take your time pouring into each letter.
Once the molds are full, I am going to let this sit for 12 hours until solid. Once the time has elapsed, I will pop these letters out of the mold.
This is the final product, resin letters with dollar tree eyeshadow and glitter.
Overall, I like how these turned out. The eyeshadow has a beautiful pearl-like finish and tinted the resin white. I didn’t use much so I have a half bottle left over for more projects. Definitely a cost-effective way to color resin.
A few downsides. My Dollar Tree only had a few options for eyeshadow and they were all a similar shiny finish. If I was looking for a specific color I might not find it.
I imagine that any eyeshadow would work for this technique. I will have to try a few other brands and report back on my findings.
If you like this project, be sure to pin and share it.
So what do you think? Would you ever try this money-saving trick? Comment below and let me know what you have used to color resin.