Recently, there has been a rise in the popularity of resin art globally and Nigeria is not an exception. Maybe you have been creating art with resin as a hobby or a side hustle; starting a resin art business can be a great and lucrative way to monetize your passion as a creative thereby turning it into a profitable venture.

This article will work you through all you need to know about resin art and how to start a business with it.

What is Resin Art?

Resin art is a distinctive craft that employs epoxy or casting resin as a primary medium, forgoing traditional painting tools and materials like brushes, acrylics, or oil paints.

When mixed with a hardener, resin transforms liquid into a solid, allowing artists to embed objects, add color, and create intricate designs. Resin is a versatile medium that artists can use to craft various art forms, from functional products like jewelry and home decor to abstract paintings. By pouring resin into molds with decorative elements like dried flowers or shells, or by mixing it with paint or ink, artists can produce vibrant, multi-dimensional patterns and designs.

Types of Resin Art

While there are various types of resin art, the two major types are: Epoxy and Casting Resin.

• Epoxy Resin

One of the most commonly used resins, Epoxy resin is known for its clarity, high-gloss finish, and exceptional durability. It is designed primarily for arts and crafts applications.

Epoxy resin is created when blended with paint or alcohol ink, or it can be poured over a finished painting to create a shiny protective covering.

• Casting Resin

Casting resin uses a mold to confine the resin before it sets. They are usually designed for creating 3D objects, sculptures, and molds.

How To Start Your Own Resin Art Business

The process of starting a resin business can be confusing and daunting especially if you are a beginner. We have therefore highlighted a list of things to know and steps to get you started in the resin art business.

1. Do a market research

Before undergoing any business, conducting market research first is very important. Identify who your potential customers are and understand their preferences. Research existing resin artists, taking note of their high-selling products and areas where there may be opportunities for new products.

2. Get the necessary training

The foundation of starting a resin business will require you to get the necessary skills and training. You can start by learning the basics such as mixing resin and hardener, adding pigments, and pouring techniques. If you already have basic knowledge, you can get more professional skills.

This may involve taking classes (both physical and online) watching online tutorials and courses etc. Spend time honing your skills by practicing new techniques, staying informed with the latest trends, and learning from seasoned resin experts. With time, you can create a portfolio of your work to show to potential customers.

3. Create a business plan

After getting trained, it is time to map out a business plan. Create a detailed business plan that outlines your objectives, target market, products, costs, pricing strategy, and marketing approach. A well-structured business plan will act as a road map and, if necessary, help you secure capital.

4. Define your niche

The resin business is becoming fairly competitive, hence to stand out, it is crucial to define your niche. Determine which resin art styles, themes, or applications you specialize in, whether they be abstract designs, landscape scenes, or useful works such as coasters and jewelry. By focusing on a certain niche, you may establish a strong brand identity and appeal to a targeted audience who is enthusiastic about your unique offers.

5. Invest in tools and materials

Starting a resin business will require some investment in the necessary tools and materials. Some of the tools include essentials like resin, pigments, silicone molds, gloves, respirators, measuring cups, eye masks, and mixing sticks. As your business grows, you may need to invest in more equipment such as heat guns, pressure pots, UV lamps, and sanding equipment.

To ensure you never run out of materials when needed, you can establish relationships with reputable suppliers of resin and other crafting materials to get supplies.

6. Set up your workspace

Because of some of the risks involved with resin art, a well-ventilated, clean, and tidy workspace is required for resin art. Depending on the size of your business, you can set up a small space or studio from your home then you can expand to renting a commercial space as you grow.

7. Price your products

The appropriate pricing for your resin work is necessary for the success of your business. Factors to be considered include the cost of materials, tools, time spent, and level of expertise.

You can also research the market including competitors’ pricing to learn pricing trends and determine a profitable pricing strategy. To attract and reach a wider audience, consider providing different price points for various products.

8. Build your brand

To stand out as a resin art brand, your brand identity must reflect your unique style while also appealing to your target audience.

From your logo to your brand colors and content on your social media platforms, ensure you establish a uniform visual identity.

9. Create an inventory

To create an inventory for your resin art business, start by assembling a diverse collection of 10-15 ready-made resin art pieces. This approach will enable you to assess what customers like and adjust your offerings accordingly.  Experiment with various materials, including canvases, wood, or furniture, to broaden your product offerings and attract a wider audience.

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10. Market and sell your products

After all is said and done, the end goal is to make money right? To reach your potential target audience and customers, you can create an SEO-optimized website with Shopify that offers an online store and showcases your products.

Utilize social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok to share your work, engage with your audience and customers, and also share behind the scenes of your creative process. Online marketplaces like Etsy and Amazon Handmade are also great options for marketing and selling to a wider audience.

You can also participate in local craft fairs, art shows, and online communities to connect with potential customers.

By following these steps and using the right techniques, you will be well on your way to becoming successful as a resin art business owner.