Hobbies And Interests
About Resin
Resin is a common secretion made by many types of trees, particularly coniferous trees. It is often used in the commercial manufacturing of several types of products, including glues, varnishes, perfumes and glazes. Resin figurines are typically not made of natural resin, but of a material made to synthesize the property of resins. These polyresins are designed to imitate the hardening of natural resins at a much quicker rate and is much more affordable than natural resins. Polyresins are used in the production of figurines because they take painting and other finishes very well.
Resin Casting
Resin figurines are made by a process called resin casting. During this process a mold of the figurine is filled with a synthetic resin. Once the resin is placed in the mold, a hardening agent or catalyst is added which then makes the resin harden instantly. The resin figurine is then removed from the cast, packaged and sold. Hobby enthusiasts have also used resin casting to make their own figurines at home. Resins are affordable, but highly toxic, and the casting process must be done in a well-ventilated area. The finished figurines are then painted or finished for decorative use.
Types of Figurines and Production
Manufactured figurines come in a variety of types and styles. For instance, animal figurines are available that represent lions, elephants and monkeys, as well as less exotic animals like cats and dogs. Egypt is also a common theme for resin figurines, with a wide variety of Cleopatra, Egyptian cat, pyramid and sarcophagus figures available. Many of these figurines are manufactured in China and Thailand. Because of this, there are many resin figurines representing various deities of Eastern religions, including figures of Buddha, yogis, Ganesh, and Indian and Chinese monks. Resin is also frequently used to make the bride and groom cake toppers for weddings.
Sizes and Display
Most resin figurines are small, lightweight and detailed sculptures in sizes ranging from 5 to 8 inches in height and weighing between 1 to 4 lbs. There are, however, different types of resin sculptures which are much larger and come with their own display stands. Resin figurines of the typical size are displayed in curio cabinets, which are glass-front display cases with lighting, designed for safe storage of small figurines.