DIY Resin Christmas Tray

Resin is one of my all time favorite craft supplies. It’s such a fun science experiment to combine two liquids and, BOOM, it becomes a solid…. and a piece of art!

Make sure to work in a well ventilated area, preferably outside, and wear a mask and gloves.

MATERIALS:

  • Existing tray with lip

  • Epoxy resin

  • Glitter, acrylic paint or mica in desired color

  • Disposable mixing cups

  • Popsicle sticks or other disposable mixing utensils

  • Vinyl sticker letters or vinyl cutting machine and adhesive vinyl

  • Hot glue gun and glue sticks

  • Optional:

    • Heat gun

    • Handles

    • Screws

    • Drill

INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. Seal the inner bottom edge of the tray with hot glue to prevent any resin from seeping through, unless it is one solid piece.

  2. Mix the resin and hardener together according to the instructions. Add either glitter, mica powder or a touch of paint into the mixture. Continue to mix until completely blended.

  3. Pour the first layer of resin into the bottom of the tray, make sure it is level. Allow to cure for 24 hours. PRO TIP: To pop any bubbles on the surface, blow warm air on the resin gently with a heat gun on a low setting.

  4. Adhere the vinyl lettering to the cured first layer of resin. Consider the placement of the wording with the cookie plate and note in mind.

  5. Mix together the second round of resin and pour into the tray over the first layer and vinyl lettering. Mix in a little bit of glitter if desired before pouring, but remember you want to be able to read the lettering still. Level the tray and allow to cure for 24 hours. PRO TIP: To pop any bubbles on the surface, blow warm air on the resin gently with a heat gun on a low setting.

  6. Once the top layer has cured, add handles to the tray if desired using some screws and a drill if desired.

  7. Place the tray out on Christmas eve with some treats and note for Santa. Enjoy!