DIY grip design to match my phone's case.
I made a couple simple UV resin phone grip designs using a phone grip mold bought from my local arts and crafts store.
In case it's helpful, below are the topics covered in this post:
The Resin Mold Set
The Craftsmart Silicone Mold Phone Grip set came from my local Michaels with a store coupon. The silicone mold was thick and sturdy. The plastic grips were thin and lightweight.
Some Safety Notes
UV resin, especially while curing under UV light, emits toxic fumes and vapors. I wore a mask and completed my resin craft in a well-ventilated location. The DecorRom UV Resin Clear I use is especially potent during the curing process.
Hand gloves to protect my skin from accidental contact to UV resin. Any resin in its liquid state is toxic, so it is best to wear the proper safety equipment.
I have extra sensitive skin and experience an unpleasant allergic reaction if my skin is exposed to resin for too long. Washing it off immediately does not normally pose a problem for me.
First Round Using UV Resin
I poured UV resin into one mold cavity and spread it out to the edges. I used UV resin because it cures faster than epoxy resin. However, I would have used epoxy resin if I wanted my piece to last for several years.
I mixed in some gold glitter to match the gold accent of my current phone case design.
There were some bubbles that popped on its own after a few minutes. After letting the UV resin set untouched for a few minutes, I used a UV light to cure the UV resin for four minutes.
Second Round Using UV Resin
I poured UV resin over the cured layer and spread it out to the edges. I mixed in "Magic Green" mica powder. I do not know why it is named that way when it looks white.
I then poured UV resin into a second mold cavity and spread it out to the edges. This second design was an afterthought. I decided to make two different designs and select my preferred one to use on my phone case.
I swirled some of the "Magic Green" mixed UV resin from the first mold cavity into the second mold cavity. I wanted this design to be semi-transparent so that the black of the grip would show through.
I mixed in some gold glitter to the second mold cavity, let it set untouched for a few minutes to allow bubbles to pop, and then cured it for four minutes using a UV light.
Third Round Using UV Resin
I again poured UV resin over both cured layers and spread it out to the edges. I then mixed in "Cherry" mica powder. This was not necessary since the color would not be seen under the "Magic Green" layer. However, I did this to use the color for the second mold cavity.
I swirled some of the "Cherry" mixed UV resin from the first mold cavity into the second mold cavity. After sitting for a few minutes to allow bubbles to pop, I cured it for four minutes using a UV light.
De-molding and More Curing
The cured pieces de-molded easily. They felt tacky to the touch. I used a UV light to cure all sides for an additional four minutes each to eliminate the tackiness.
Sanding and Painting
I sanded the rough edges for a smooth finish. The two pieces looked good, but I believed they would look better with a little extra gold.
I painted the edges with a gold paint marker. It took two coats for full coverage.
Assembling the Phone Grip
I attached my preferred UV resin piece to the grip using strong glue. I used E-6000 due to its hold strength and quick dry time.
I peeled the adhesive backing off the end of the grip and adhered it to the back of my phone case.
What's Next?
If you want to complete a resin craft, why not check your local arts and crafts store to see what types of resin molds they have in stock? I recommend checking for a store coupon before heading out.
Comment below to share your favorite UV resin brand for resin crafts.
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Thanks, and have a great day!
Simply Jelly Jam
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