So a friend of a friend has just bought this whole collection of used resin casting pieces from the internet. However, she has just found out she is pregnant and has lost interest in this. So I have offered to take it all and have a play.

However, because this kit has passed through many hands on its way to me. The knowledge on how to use it is now somewhat sparse. So just wanted to know if there was anyone on here who had some good knowledge of resin casting? And could possibly suggest a simple, basic project to start with?

I don't even have any resin product. So I also need a suggestion on a good resin product to purchase. The kit I have has a lot of pieces for making jewellery, molds and trinkets etc. So I would like to try something like that.

I don't really mind trying anything. I love having fun exploring and trying new things. All of this kit was basically free, so it would be a shame not to try and put it to good use. I really like the shells, but I am not sure what the previous person had in mind and what you could do with resin that would be pretty.

Another question would be. I have all these mold, a lot of large letters. I think I could make a nice gift with the letters which might not be that bad if they were all encapsulating pretty things. But what is the correct mold release to use?

I'm sure there is probably an expensive resin mold release. Can anyone recommend a brand that is not going to break the bank?

Also are there any basic no, nos when it comes to resin casting?

I don't have the vacuum chamber or anything fancy, unfortunately. I was just going to use the, "be careful and don't be too picky" approach to my resin casting.

Any basic advice or ideas on what I can make with this kit, would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Maria