How to Make Resin Jewelry Trays with Compartments: A Practical DIY Guide

If you love resin crafting and want to bring a touch of organization to your home or gift-giving, making a resin jewelry tray with compartments is the perfect project. These trays are not only functional—they keep rings, earrings, necklaces, and small accessories neatly separated—but also make stunning decorative pieces. With the right silicone mold and a bit of practice, you can create custom trays in any color, pattern, or finish to match your style or that of a friend.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from choosing your mold and resin to mixing, pouring, and finishing your tray. We’ll also share tips on avoiding bubbles, achieving a high-gloss finish, and adding personal touches like glitter or dried flowers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced resin artist, this project is satisfying, practical, and endlessly customizable.

Materials You’ll Need for Your Resin Jewelry Tray

Before you start, gather all the necessary supplies. The most important item is a silicone mold designed for compartment trays. Silicone molds are flexible, non-stick, and ideal for casting resin. You can find a variety of shapes and sizes, from small ring dishes to larger trays with multiple sections. For this project, consider using a mold that has several compartments to keep different jewelry pieces organized. A Heart Photo Frame Resin Mold can also be repurposed as a small tray, but for a dedicated jewelry tray, look for a mold with deeper sections.

You will also need a high-quality epoxy resin. A crystal-clear, 1:1 mixing ratio resin is best for achieving that glass-like finish. We recommend using CRAFT RESIN Arts & Crafts resin 4 Gallon for larger projects, but for a single tray, a smaller kit works fine. Other essentials include mixing cups, stirring sticks, a heat gun or torch for bubble removal, gloves, and a level surface to cure your tray. Optional materials include alcohol inks, mica powders, glitter, dried flowers, or small charms to personalize your design.

• Silicone mold with compartments (e.g., a jewelry tray mold or a heart-shaped mold for smaller trays)
• Epoxy resin (preferably crystal clear, 1:1 mix ratio)
• Mixing cups, stirring sticks, gloves, and a heat gun or torch
• Colorants: alcohol inks, mica powders, or glitter
• Optional: dried flowers, gold leaf, or small charms

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making a Resin Jewelry Tray

Start by preparing your workspace. Cover your table with a silicone mat or wax paper, and make sure the area is well-ventilated. Wipe your silicone mold with a lint-free cloth to remove any dust—this helps prevent imperfections. Next, measure and mix your epoxy resin according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Stir slowly and thoroughly for at least 2-3 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom of the cup. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow bubbles to rise.

If you want to color your tray, divide the resin into separate cups and add your chosen colorants. For a marbled effect, swirl two or three colors together in the mold. Pour the resin into the mold slowly, starting from one corner and letting it spread naturally. Fill each compartment to the desired depth—usually about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Use a heat gun or torch to pop any surface bubbles. Let the resin cure for 24-48 hours in a dust-free area at room temperature. Once fully cured, gently flex the mold to release the tray. Sand any sharp edges with fine-grit sandpaper if needed, and apply a clear topcoat for extra shine.

• Always mix resin in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves.
• Pour resin slowly to minimize bubbles—use a heat gun immediately after pouring.
• Let the tray cure on a level surface to ensure even thickness across compartments.

Creative Ideas for Customizing Your Compartment Tray

One of the best parts of making resin jewelry trays is the endless customization. You can create a monochromatic tray for a minimalist look, or go bold with vibrant colors and glitter. For a romantic gift, use a Heart with Text Resin Molds - set of 5 to create a set of small heart-shaped trays that can hold rings or earrings. You can also embed small items like dried flowers, tiny shells, or even a photo in the bottom of a compartment for a personal touch.

If you’re making a tray for a specific holiday or season, consider using themed colors and embellishments. For example, a Valentine’s Day tray could feature red and pink swirls with gold flakes. For a more practical approach, use a mold with labeled compartments (like “rings,” “earrings,” “bracelets”) by embedding small metal tags or writing on the cured resin with a permanent marker. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination.

• Use alcohol inks for vibrant, transparent colors or mica powders for shimmery, opaque effects.
• Embed small charms or letters to personalize the tray for a specific person or occasion.
• Combine multiple small molds to create a modular jewelry organizer set.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Resin Trays

Even experienced resin artists encounter problems from time to time. Bubbles are the most common issue—they often appear if you mix too vigorously or pour too quickly. To minimize bubbles, stir gently and slowly, and always use a heat gun or torch after pouring. If you see bubbles forming during curing, you can try popping them with a toothpick or a quick blast of heat. Another common issue is the resin not curing properly, which can happen if the resin-to-hardener ratio is off or if the temperature is too cold. Always measure carefully and work in a room that’s between 70-80°F (21-27°C).

Sticky or tacky surfaces can result from incomplete mixing or high humidity. To fix this, you can apply a thin topcoat of fresh resin and let it cure again. If your tray has cloudy or foggy areas, it might be due to moisture in the mold or the room. Make sure your mold is completely dry before pouring, and avoid working in damp conditions. Finally, if you have trouble demolding, place the mold in the freezer for 10-15 minutes—the resin will contract slightly, making it easier to release.

• Always test your resin on a small batch first if you’re using new colorants or additives.
• Keep a heat gun handy throughout the pouring process to catch bubbles early.
• Store your silicone molds flat and away from direct sunlight to prevent warping.

Why Silicone Molds Are Essential for This Project

Silicone molds are the gold standard for resin casting because they are flexible, non-stick, and can capture fine details. For jewelry trays, a silicone mold with smooth, rounded compartments will give your finished piece a professional look. When choosing a mold, look for one made from food-grade or platinum silicone, as these are durable and reusable. You can even make your own custom molds using a liquid silicone rubber kit, which opens up even more design possibilities.

If you want to create a truly unique tray, consider making your own mold from an existing dish or container. Using CRAFT RESIN Mold Making Silicone 30A, you can pour liquid silicone over a prototype to create a custom mold that perfectly fits your needs. This is especially useful if you want a tray with very specific compartment sizes or shapes. Homemade molds also allow you to add texture or patterns to the bottom of your tray, giving it an extra artistic touch.

• Platinum silicone molds are more heat-resistant and last longer than tin-cure molds.
• Make sure your mold has a smooth, glossy interior for a shiny finish on your tray.
• If using a homemade mold, ensure the prototype is clean and free of dust before pouring silicone.

Making a resin jewelry tray with compartments is a rewarding project that combines creativity with practicality. Whether you’re organizing your own vanity or crafting a personalized gift, the result is a beautiful, functional piece that showcases your skills. Start with a high-quality silicone mold and crystal-clear epoxy resin, and don’t be afraid to experiment with colors and embellishments. For your next project, try using the Heart with Text Resin Molds - set of 5 to create a matching set of small trays or ring dishes. Happy crafting!