Ready to bring your creative ideas to life? Let’s walk through how to make a professional-looking resin cast using a custom 3D printed mold—perfect for artists, crafters, and makers who want to level up their casting game.
Why Use a 3D Printed Mold for Resin Casting?
Traditional mold-making has its perks, but 3D printing is changing the game. Whether you're replicating an intricate design, personalizing a project, or just tired of expensive silicone prototypes, 3D printed molds offer a more precise and cost-effective solution.
In fact, we recently broke down how 3D printed molds are revolutionizing the world of art and manufacturing in our blog:
👉 3D Printing Molds for Casting: A Game-Changer in Manufacturing and Art
Now, let’s get hands-on.
What You’ll Need
Tools & Materials
A 3D printed mold (PLA, ABS, or PETG recommended)
Resin (epoxy or polyurethane)
Mold release spray (optional but helpful)
Mixing cups and stirrers
Gloves & safety gear
Heat gun or torch (to remove bubbles)
Paints, pigments, or glitter (optional for design)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your 3D Printed Mold
If your mold is freshly printed, you’ll want to clean it thoroughly. Sand any rough edges and ensure the interior surface is smooth—this helps with resin flow and final finish.
Pro Tip: Apply a mold release agent if your mold isn’t coated or sealed. It helps extend the life of your mold and makes demolding a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Resin
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing your resin and hardener. Stir slowly to minimize air bubbles.
Add pigments, dyes, or other artistic additives now if you're going for a customized look.
Step 3: Pour the Resin
Slowly pour the mixed resin into your 3D printed mold. Do it gradually from one corner to help air escape and avoid bubbles.
Tap the mold gently on a table to bring bubbles to the surface.
Step 4: De-Bubble and Let It Cure
Use a heat gun or torch briefly over the surface to pop any remaining bubbles.
Let the resin cure as per the manufacturer’s time (usually 24–48 hours). Keep the mold in a dust-free, level space during this time.
Step 5: Demold and Finish
Once the resin is fully cured, gently remove it from the mold.
If needed, you can sand, polish, or paint the finished cast for added flair.
Helpful Tips for Better Results
Use high-resolution settings when printing the mold for detailed designs.
Experiment with flexible resins for easier demolding.
Want a glossy finish? Coat the inside of your mold with a clear sealant before casting.
Where to Learn More
3D printed molds are just the tip of the iceberg. They’re reshaping how we approach casting—blending digital design with hands-on creation.
Want to dive deeper into the tech, materials, and methods behind this trend?
👉 Check out our full blog:
3D Printing Molds for Casting: A Game-Changer in Manufacturing and Art
Create Without Limits
With 3D printing and resin casting in your toolkit, you’re only limited by your imagination. Whether you're creating custom jewelry, DIY home decor, or artistic replicas—this method unlocks a new world of precision and personalization.
Let’s mold the future—one cast at a time. 😉
