How to Make Resin Pens with Pen Molds: A Step-by-Step DIY Tutorial

Resin pens are one of the most popular and rewarding projects for resin artists of all skill levels. These functional yet beautiful writing instruments make fantastic gifts, personalized office supplies, or even sellable items at craft fairs. The process involves casting resin in a specialized pen mold, adding colors or embellishments, and then assembling the pen hardware after curing.

In this tutorial, we'll walk you through the entire process of making resin pens using a pen resin mold. We'll cover the essential materials, step-by-step instructions, tips for avoiding common mistakes, and how to achieve a flawless, professional finish. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced resin crafter, you'll find valuable insights to elevate your next pen project.

Materials You'll Need for DIY Resin Pens

Before you start, gather all the necessary supplies. The most critical item is a high-quality pen resin mold — typically a two-part silicone mold that forms the pen barrel and cap. You'll also need epoxy resin (a crystal-clear, 1:1 mix ratio works well for pens), resin colorants such as mica powder or alcohol ink, and pen hardware kits (including the ink refill, tip, and mechanism).

Other essentials include disposable mixing cups, stirring sticks, a heat gun or torch for bubble removal, gloves, and a respirator for safety. If you want to add embedded elements like glitter, dried flowers, or small charms, prepare those in advance. Using a reliable resin like CRAFT RESIN Arts & Crafts resin 64 oz ensures a bubble-free, crystal-clear finish that is perfect for pen barrels.

• Pen resin mold (silicone, two-part design)
• Epoxy resin (clear, 1:1 or 2:1 ratio)
• Resin colorants (mica powder, alcohol ink, or pigments)
• Pen hardware kit (pen refill, tip, spring, etc.)
• Disposable mixing cups, stirring sticks, heat gun, gloves, respirator

Step 1: Prepare Your Resin and Mold

Begin by cleaning your pen resin mold with warm soapy water and drying it thoroughly. Any dust or residue can cause imperfections in the cured resin. Place the mold on a level, stable surface. If you plan to use multiple colors or create a layered effect, prepare your resin in small batches.

Mix your epoxy resin according to the manufacturer's instructions. For a standard 1:1 resin, measure equal parts resin and hardener by volume. Stir slowly but thoroughly for at least 2–3 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom of the cup. Pour the mixed resin into a clean cup to reduce bubbles, then add your colorants. For a swirled look, add drops of alcohol ink and stir gently — do not overmix.

• Clean and dry the mold thoroughly before use.
• Mix resin slowly to minimize air bubbles.
• Use separate cups for different colors if layering.

Step 2: Pour the Resin into the Mold

Carefully pour the colored resin into the pen barrel cavity of the mold. Fill it slowly to avoid trapping air. If you are using a two-part mold (one for the barrel and one for the cap), fill both sections. Leave a small gap at the top if your pen hardware requires insertion after curing. For embedded objects, pour a thin layer first, place your items, then top off with more resin.

After pouring, use a heat gun or torch to pop any surface bubbles. Pass the flame quickly over the resin — do not hold it too close or too long, as it can scorch the resin. Let the resin sit for a few minutes, then repeat the bubble removal process. Allow the resin to cure undisturbed for 24–48 hours, depending on the resin brand and ambient temperature.

• Pour slowly to minimize bubbles.
• Use a heat gun to pop surface bubbles gently.
• Allow full cure time before demolding.

Step 3: Demold and Prepare for Assembly

Once the resin has fully cured, carefully flex the silicone mold to release the pen barrel and cap. Silicone molds are flexible and non-stick, making demolding easy. If you used a detailed mold like the Snowflake Coaster Resin Mold - set of 8 (though designed for coasters, the principle of flexible demolding applies), you'll appreciate how smoothly the resin releases.

Inspect the cured resin pieces for any sharp edges or imperfections. Use fine-grit sandpaper (400–600 grit) to smooth the ends where the hardware will insert. If you want a glossy finish, you can sand progressively up to 2000 grit and then apply a clear topcoat or polish. For pens, the barrel surface is often left as-is from the mold, but sanding the ends ensures a snug fit with the hardware.

• Flex the mold gently to release the resin.
• Sand the ends of the pen barrel for a perfect fit.
• Optional: polish for extra shine.

Step 4: Assemble the Pen Hardware

Now it's time to turn your resin barrel into a functional pen. Most pen hardware kits include a brass tube that fits inside the barrel, a tip, a spring, a twist mechanism, and a refill. First, insert the brass tube into the drilled hole of the resin barrel (if the mold didn't include a pre-drilled cavity, you may need to drill a hole using a drill press). Apply a small amount of epoxy or super glue to secure the tube.

After the glue dries, attach the pen tip to the front of the barrel. Insert the spring and ink refill, then screw on the twist mechanism or cap. Test the pen to ensure the refill extends and retracts smoothly. If you used a kit with a cap, simply press the cap onto the barrel. Your DIY resin pen is now ready to use or gift!

• Use a brass tube for durability and fit.
• Secure tube with epoxy or super glue.
• Test the mechanism before final assembly.

Tips for Perfect Resin Pens Every Time

To achieve professional-looking resin pens, always work in a dust-free environment. Even tiny particles can mar the surface. Use a dust cover or box while the resin cures. If you want to add intricate designs, consider using a mold like the Christmas Tree Resin Molds - set of 4 for inspiration on how to create themed pens for holidays or special occasions.

Experiment with different color combinations and embedding techniques. Glitter, dried flowers, and small charms can transform a simple pen into a work of art. Remember to test your resin's cure time — some deep pour epoxies may require longer curing. For best results, use a resin specifically formulated for small castings, such as a clear 1:1 epoxy.

• Work in a clean, dust-free area.
• Use a dust cover during curing.
• Test resin cure time before demolding.

Making resin pens is a fun, creative project that yields beautiful, functional results. With the right materials and a bit of patience, you can craft personalized pens that impress everyone. Ready to start your next resin pen project? Explore our collection of high-quality resin and molds to bring your designs to life.