The puddle pour in resin art is similar to acrylic pouring but uses epoxy resin instead of paint. This method creates deep, glossy layers with stunning depth and vibrant colors. It’s perfect for coasters, tabletops, and jewelry.

Materials Needed:

✅ Epoxy resin (1:1 mix ratio, preferably a slow-cure resin for working time)
✅ Resin pigments (alcohol inks, mica powders, liquid dyes, or resin tints)
✅ Silicone oil (optional, for cells)
✅ Plastic cups & stirring sticks
✅ Heat gun or torch (for bubbles and cells)
✅ Level surface (to prevent uneven curing)
✅ Mold or substrate (e.g., wood panel, coaster mold)
✅ Gloves, mask & workspace protection

Step-by-Step Puddle Pour with Resin

1. Prepare the Resin

  • Mix Part A and Part B of the epoxy resin according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Stir slowly for 3–5 minutes to avoid bubbles.
  • Let it sit for a few minutes to release air bubbles (optional: warm water bath to thin resin).

2. Divide & Color the Resin

  • Pour equal amounts of resin into separate cups.
  • Add pigment to each cup (a few drops of alcohol ink or mica powder).
    • For cells: Add 1–2 drops of silicone oil per color (optional).

3. Layer the Colors (Puddle Technique)

  • Option 1: Cup Puddle Pour
    • Layer colored resin in one cup (don’t stir—just pour one color over another).
    • Pour onto the surface in a circular motion or flip the cup onto the substrate.
  • Option 2: Direct Puddle Pour
    • Drizzle different resin colors in random “puddles” across the surface.
    • Alternate colors to create depth.

4. Manipulate the Resin

  • Tilt the surface to let the resin flow naturally.
  • Use a straw, toothpick, or heat gun to create swirls or lace effects.
  • Torch lightly to pop bubbles and enhance cells (don’t overheat!).

5. Let It Cure

  • Cover with a dust-free dome or box.
  • Let it cure for 24–48 hours (follow resin instructions).
  • Sand & polish if needed after full curing (7 days for deep pours).

Tips for Best Results

🔥 Use a slow-cure resin for more working time.
🎨 Metallic pigments & translucent dyes create stunning depth.
💧 Avoid overmixing to prevent muddy colors.
🌪 Try a “dirty pour” (swirling colors in the cup before pouring).

Resin Geode Puddle Pour Technique 🌟

A geode puddle pour combines the organic flow of a puddle pour with the crystalline sparkle of geodes. This technique uses metallic pigments, crushed glass, or foil for a stunning gemstone effect.

Materials (In Addition to Basic Resin Puddle Pour)

  • Crushed glass (iridescent or colored)
  • Gold/silver leaf or foil
  • Fine glitter or mica flakes
  • White/opaque resin (for “geode veins”)
  • Small brushes or toothpicks (for detailing)

Step-by-Step Geode Puddle Pour

1. Base Puddle Pour

  • Follow the standard puddle pour steps (layering colored resin).
  • Leave one section of the surface empty for the geode “crack” area.

2. Create the Geode Veins

  • Mix white/opaque resin with a touch of metallic pigment.
  • Use a popsicle stick or syringe to draw jagged “veins” in the empty area.

3. Add Geode Sparkle

  • While resin is wet, press in:
    • Crushed glass (along the veins)
    • Gold leaf flakes (for luxury)
    • Fine glitter (for extra shimmer)
  • Tilt slightly to blend edges naturally.

4. Torch & Cure

  • Lightly torch to remove bubbles and set the design.
  • Cure for 24–48 hours (avoid dust!).

Troubleshooting Common Resin Puddle Pour Issues

❌ Problem: Resin Cures Too Fast

  • Fix: Use a slow-cure resin (90+ min work time).
  • Prevent: Work in a cool room (~75°F or lower).

❌ Problem: Muddy Colors

  • Fix: Use less pigment and avoid overmixing.
  • Tip: Layer colors gently—don’t stir after pouring.

❌ Problem: Bubbles Trapped in Resin

  • Fix: Torch in quick passes (don’t overheat).
  • Prevent: Let resin sit 5 mins after mixing to release air.

❌ Problem: Resin Not Spreading

  • Fix: Add a few drops of alcohol to thin slightly.
  • Prevent: Ensure resin is mixed to a honey-like consistency.

❌ Problem: Sticky or Tacky Surface After Curing

  • Fix: Sand lightly and apply a fresh resin topcoat.
  • Cause: Incorrect resin mix ratio or humid environment.

Bonus: Advanced Variations

  1. Ocean Geode Pour 🌊
    • Use blues, turquoise, and white with iridescent flakes for a water effect.
  2. Galaxy Puddle Pour 🌌
    • Add black resin base with neon alcohol ink and star glitter.
  3. Lace Puddle Pour 🧵
    • Drag a needle tool through wet resin for delicate lace patterns.