If you love making resin jewellery, keyrings, charms and other small crafts, you’ll know how important it is to find a UV resin that delivers a beautiful, clear finish without making your crafting process complicated.
If you’ve been using Padico UV resin and are now looking for another option, it could be the perfect time to discover Apex UV Resin.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced resin artist, Apex UV Resin is high quality and most importantly easy to work with. We’ve been using Apex UV resin for years and have used Padico so can confirm – It’s a solid replacement.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Apex UV Resin worth considering, what you can use it for and how to get the best results from your next project.
Why look for an alternative to Padico UV resin?
Padico is a familiar name to many UV resin crafters, particularly those who enjoy making jewellery and small decorative pieces.
However, although not officially banned, crafters in the UK and EU have experienced difficulty sourcing or importing Padico UV resin products due to changing chemical regulations surrounding photoinitiators like TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide).
The good news is that there are other UV resin products to explore, and Apex UV Resin is one option for UK-based crafters looking for a clear, fast-curing resin.
What is Apex UV Resin?
Apex UV Resin is a single-component resin that cures when exposed to a suitable UV light source or sunlight. Unlike traditional two-part epoxy resin, it doesn’t require you to measure and mix a separate hardener before use.
6 reasons to try Apex UV Resin
1. No mixing required
One of the biggest advantages of UV resin is its convenience.
With Apex UV Resin, there’s no need to measure out separate components or worry about getting a two-part mixing ratio right. This makes it particularly appealing for smaller projects, where preparing a full batch of epoxy resin might feel unnecessary.
It can also be useful when you’re making a single pendant, repairing a small detail or creating a few matching charms.
2. Fast curing times
Want to finish your latest jewellery project without waiting hours for a traditional epoxy resin to cure?
Apex UV Resin is designed for quick curing under a suitable UV lamp. With an approximate curing time of 2–4 minutes* under a 36-watt UV lamp, (although thinner applications may cure more quickly), it’s super quick.
*Actual curing times depend on factors such as the lamp, the resin thickness, colourants and the design of your project. Always check that the resin has fully cured before handling your finished creation.
3. Crystal-clear results
Clarity is particularly important when you’re making transparent jewellery, encapsulating decorative elements or creating glossy embellishments.
Apex UV Resin is gives a clear, glass-like finish, helping your embedded flowers, glitter, foils and other decorative details stand out.
For the best results, start with clean moulds, work carefully to minimise bubbles and use colourants suitable for UV resin.
4. Ideal for jewellery and small crafts
One of the most appealing things about UV resin is its versatility for smaller creative projects.
Apex UV Resin is intended for applications including:
- Resin earrings and pendants
- Keyrings and charms
- Jewellery bezels
- Small moulded decorations
- Doming and glossy top coats
- Embedding decorative elements
- Small casting projects
- Sealing and bonding suitable materials
It can also be coloured using compatible pigments and dyes, giving you plenty of opportunities to experiment with different finishes.
Top tip: If you’re making earrings or pendants, try layering glitter, dried decorative elements or small embellishments into your design. Keep each layer thin enough to cure thoroughly.
5. Anti-yellowing properties
One common concern when working with clear resin is yellowing over time.
Apex UV Resin is formulated with anti-yellowing properties to help maintain clarity.
6. A practical option for UK crafters
Apex Resin sells UV Resin directly through its website, you can also find it on Amazon.
Ready to shop? Visit the official Apex UV Resin product page and use code RESINFORBEGINNERS to get 15% off.
How to use Apex UV Resin for the best results
If you’re new to UV resin, follow these basic steps to help achieve a successful finish.
Step 1: Prepare your workspace
Work in a well-ventilated area and protect your work surface. Wear suitable nitrile gloves and eye protection, and avoid direct skin contact with uncured resin.
Keep resin away from children, pets, food and drink.
Step 2: Prepare your mold
Make sure your silicone mold is clean, dry and free from dust. Any debris trapped in clear resin may be visible in your finished piece. You need to make sure your mold is clear. Colored molds will not allow the light through and mean it will not fully cure.
Step 3: Add your resin
Dispense a small amount into the mold or bezel. Avoid overfilling and follow the manufacturer’s guidance on suitable layer thickness.
If you’re adding glitter, pigments or decorative elements, use compatible materials and avoid adding so much colourant that it interferes with curing.
Step 4: Cure under a suitable UV lamp
Place your project under a compatible UV lamp and follow the curing instructions supplied with your resin.
Thicker sections, opaque colourants and objects that block UV light can prevent complete curing. For deeper designs, build up thin layers where appropriate rather than assuming one long curing session will cure the entire piece.
Step 5: Check the finished piece
Allow the project to cool and check that it has fully cured before handling it further. Do not wear jewellery or use a project if uncured resin remains.
Always follow the product’s safety data and instructions, including any precautions for sanding or finishing.
Is Apex UV Resin suitable for beginners?
Apex UV Resin is perfect for beginners as its low on bubbles and cures perfectly.
If you’re planning larger castings or deep moulds, check whether a UV resin is suitable for that particular project. A two-part casting resin may be more appropriate.
For more guidance, explore our resin safety guide before starting your next project.
Apex UV Resin vs Apex Epoxy Resin
Not sure whether UV resin or two-part epoxy resin is right for you? The main difference is how they cure and the types of projects they suit.
| Feature | Apex UV Resin | Apex two-part epoxy resin |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Ready to use; no mixing | Requires resin and hardener to be mixed |
| Curing method | Suitable UV light or sunlight, following product instructions | Chemical reaction between the mixed components |
| Typical projects | Jewellery, bezels, small decorations and doming | Larger castings, coasters, trays and other suitable projects |
| Working approach | Convenient for small, individual applications | Useful for preparing larger batches |
| Curing considerations | Light must reach the resin sufficiently | Correct mixing ratio and curing conditions are essential |
Neither type is automatically best for every project. Choose a resin based on the size, depth and intended use of your finished creation.
Frequently asked questions about Apex UV Resin
What can I use instead of Padico UV resin?
Apex UV Resin is one alternative to consider if you’re looking for a UV-curing resin for jewellery, keyrings, bezels, doming and other small crafts. Check the technical information and instructions to make sure it suits your intended project.
How long does Apex UV Resin take to cure?
Approximately 2–4 minutes under a 36-watt UV lamp, with some thin applications curing faster. Actual times vary depending on the light source, thickness, colourants and other factors.
Do I need to mix Apex UV Resin?
No. Apex UV Resin is a single-component product, so you don’t need to mix it with a separate hardener.
Can I colour Apex UV Resin?
The manufacturer states that the resin can be coloured with suitable pigments and dyes. Choose compatible colourants and use them sparingly, as excessive or opaque colour can interfere with UV penetration and curing.
Is Apex UV Resin suitable for making earrings?
Yes, its perfect for jewellery. Ensure the finished pieces are fully cured, avoid skin contact with uncured resin and follow all relevant safety instructions.
Has Padico resin been banned in the UK?
Padico hasn’t been banned full stop but some of its products are no longer able to be imported to the UK due to restrictions on chemicals.
Final thoughts: Should you try Apex UV Resin?
If you’ve been searching for an alternative to Padico UV resin, Apex UV Resin is worth investigating.
Its single-component formula, quick curing times under a suitable UV lamp, clear finish and suitability for jewellery and small craft applications make it an option to consider for your resin supplies.
As with any resin, the best choice depends on your project, equipment and working methods. Read the product information, use appropriate protective equipment and ensure your creations cure completely.
Ready to try something new? Explore Apex UV Resin here and see whether it’s the right fit for your next resin jewellery or craft project.