How to Make Resin Dice – Complete Guide to Dice Casting
This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn a small commission from purchases made through them, at no additional cost to you. You help to support resin-expert.com
Of the many interactive activities families do, board games remain an extremely popular choice. However, when you want to play a game and it’s without some dice, it can be a bit frustrating. Creating your own resin dice can add a lovely touch to family game night, and the creative possibilities are literally endless. If this sounds like a fun DIY project that you would love to try, then take a roll of the dice, and join us for our easy and interactive tutorial for dice casting.
Table of Contents
Exploring the Different Kinds of Dice
When many of us think of dice, we are likely to picture the traditional cube-shaped dice, but there are actually so many different varieties to choose from. Difference dice shapes are used for different games, so it is good to know what kind of dice you are needing before you dive right into the resin deep end. Let us take a look at some of the different dice options.
There are many types of dice that are used in different settings. Here are some of the most common dice forms and their uses.
- Different colors, some with different colors on each face
- Poker dice with pictures of Jack, Queen or King, etc. on it
- Dice with negative and positive signs on each side
- Yin and yang symbols
- The dice used in Jumanji have pictures on each surface
- Standard dice with numbers or dots on each side
Different Shapes That You Can Make With Dice Casting
There are around 7 different dice varieties that are generally included in dice resin molds. Here is a brief description of each of these dice varieties, to help you decide which is the one that you need!
- D4: this triangular dice has four sides with numbers from 1 to 4. Each vertex has three numbers on each face, which can make throwing the dice a little tricky. It is best to throw these dice into the air, and then use the value that is shown on the top side. These dice are also known as tetrahedron dice.
- D6: the D6 dice are the traditional cube-shaped dice with the numbers 1 to six on the sides. The sum of the numbers on opposite sides of the cube always equals 7.
- D8: as you can guess, the D8 dice has eight sides with triangular faces. You can picture these dice as being made from two pyramids. If you add the numbers on each side, you will get to a total of 9. As you would expect, these dice are also known as octahedron dice.
- D10: these ten-sided kite-shaped dice have two sharp corners when the top and bottom points meet. Typically, the numbers range from 0 to 9, but they can also go from 1 to 10. When you add the numbers on opposite sides, you will get 11. The odd numbers are gathered at one point, while the even numbers gather around the other. The deltohedron dice are also known as pentagonal trapezohedron, but this is a little bit of a mouthful.
- D12: these dodecahedron dice have 12 sides with each side having a pentagonal shape. You will see from the pattern, the sum of the opposite sides of the D12 dice will be 13.
- D20: composed of 20 equilateral triangular sides, these dice can either have the numbers 0 to 9 or 1 to 20. The sum of the numbers on the opposite sides will always be 21.
- D100: we now have a large jump from the D20 to the D100. These dice are also known as the bescon polyhedral dice with 100 level surfaces. These dice are as large as a golf ball, and they typically do not have much practical value, they tend to be created simply for their uniqueness.
Our Recommendations for Resin Dice Molds
It is likely that if you are looking for tips on how to make your own dice with resin, you do not yet have the necessary supplies. We have selected our two top recommendations for resin dice molds to help you get started. Both of these options are of very high quality and you will be able to use them time and time again to make any number of beautiful resin dice. You will also need to purchase some deep pour resin to make your own resin dice, and we have listed our suggestion below.
The Best Beginners Dice Casting Molds: SHYNEK Resin Dice Molds
If you are new to resin casting altogether and you do not have any of the necessary supplies, then this set is perfect for you. The set includes 19 silicone dice molds, five plastic droppers, one 100ml measuring cup for resin, gold acrylic paints, one paintbrush, ten mixing sticks, and 20 finger cots. With this set, you can jump right into learning how to make your own dice with ease! This set of dice casting molds includes two variations of each dice shape, one with numbers and one with letters. The silicone is of high-quality making the molds durable, soft, and easy to de-mold and clean.
- Includes 19 unique shaped dice molds and additional tools
- Easy to use molds that can be easily de-molded and washed
- Are engraved with numbers and letters for unique dice
- Versatile set
- Soft and durable silicone
- Includes many helpful additions
- Two variations of each dice shape
- Perfect for beginners
- The lids of the molds can be tricky to use correctly
The Best Professional Dice Casting Molds: SZECL Resin Dice Molds
The szecl dice casting molds are made with high-quality silicone that is easy to use, de-mold, and clean. The set includes the 7 primary dice shapes with numbers. The dice molds offer a large space that allows you to add a range of embellishments, like crystals, stones, dry flowers, and a range of glitters and colors. After your project is fully cured, you can easily pop the dice out of the mold. You can easily clean the molds with clean water after use to preserve their longevity.
- Top-quality silicone molds
- Easy to use
- Large space for embellishments
- Easy to clean
- Only has 7 molds
The Best Deep Pour Resin: INCREDIBLE SOLUTIONS Deep Pour Resin
When it comes to deep pour resins, this Incredible Solutions product is by far the best. Not only is this resin perfect for dice casting, but it can also be used for other casting and embedding applications, like jewelry or river tables. This resin is very easy to use, with comprehensible instructions. The formulation reduces the likelihood of bubble and crater formation, and it can be easily colored with dyes and powders.
- Thick pours up to 2" per application, low viscosity and long working time
- Super clear results, compatible with pigments and dyes
- 2 : 1 mix ratio by volume (100 A to 44 B by weight)
- Self-leveling formula
- Reduces bubble and crater formation
- Easy to use
- Can be colored easily
- Versatile
- Sold in bulk
How to Make Dice Molds Yourself
You must have an original or master dice to begin your project. To find out more about how to make your dice mold, continue reading this article. We have also created a complete tutorial about how to make molds for resin. By making your very own dice casting molds, you can create unique, one-of-a-kind dice like the one below.
Preparation
First things first, you need to prepare your working area. Make sure that you have a clean work area with no distractions. You now need to decide whether you are going to make a single or double part mold for pouring. In this tutorial, we are going to be making a basic one-part mold. This one-part mold will have no open sides, just a small opening where you will pour the resin into.
The last thing you need to have before you begin making your own resin dice mold is the original dice that you want to replicate.
Materials needed
Before you can begin learning how to make your own dice mold, you will need to gather together the necessary supplies. Here is a brief list of the tools that you will need to make your own resin dice mold:
- Silicone resin material
- Cups or containers to place the original into
- Mixing cups or containers for the silicone
- Master or original dice
- Mixing spoon or tool
- Clay or plasticine
- Silicone gloves for protection of your hands
- Goggles protect the eyes when pouring and sanding
Molding Material
The molding material that is most suitable for creating resin dice molds is silicone rubber. Silicone rubber is strong, durable, and re-usable. Silicone rubber is also soft and flexible, making de-molding very easy.
Silicone rubber is non-toxic and harmless, typically used in the making of baby pacifiers and making molds.
Mixing and Pouring Your Silicone Mold
To begin with, you need to place a pin in your master dice. Heat the tip of the pin with a flame, and push it into one of the sharp corners of the dice. Next, add a small amount of plasticine or clay to the bottom of the container that you are using. We suggest using a small container so that you do not waste any silicone. Use your mixing cups to measure the correct ratios of the silicone, following the instructions on the packaging very closely.
Silicone has different curing ratios and times, so it is important to make sure that you have the correct measurements. Once your mixture is mixed thoroughly, pour it over the master dice in the cup. Cover the master dice up to 5mm above. Tap the cup lightly to release any air bubbles, and leave your silicone to cure for at least 24 hours before removing the mold from the cup.
How to Make Polyhedral Resin Dice
Standard molds, like the ones listed above, are all polyhedral dice. This is a dice with multiple flat surfaces, all equal in size. As there are quite a variety of resins available on the market, it will have to be trial and error to see what suits your needs.
If you are uncertain, stick to our recommendation and you cannot go wrong!
Needed Materials
Before starting the project, obtain all the required materials. Being prepared beforehand will prevent you from scrambling around halfway through making your dice and not having all the materials you need.
- You will need a mold, you will have to decide whether you are going to buy or make a mold
- The two-part clear casting resin (resin and hardener)
- 2 disposable mixing cups
- Wooden spoon or another utensil to mix the resin
- Use a toothpick to easily open the hole in the mold, which will allow the resin to flow into it. Remove air bubbles after pouring your resin
- Coloring
Mixing the Resin
On the package, you will find instructions that will help you. Only use the quantity as directed to make resin dice. After pouring your two-part resin into the disposable cups, mix it with the spoon or any other mixing tool (this could be anything that can be easily cleaned). Do not use expensive disposable mixing cups. A medicine cup or even a paper cup will work fine.
Should you plan to make a few dice at the same time, be sure to have more mixing cups available.
Make sure you mix the resin properly. Put the mold in a position that when you pour it, no air will get entombed in any of the depressions. Help to direct the resin into the hole by using a toothpick. The resin must then be left in the mold to harden. Work in a well-ventilated place or use a respirator, as the resin has a strong smell.
Adding Embellishments
Before pouring the resin, decide if it will be a clear dice or if you want to add something to the resin. You can add mica powders or alcohol inks to give color or even add glitter to the dice.
Always mix thoroughly before pouring. Small figures can also be used in your resin. Here are some examples of objects you can use in your dice:
- Small bracelet charms
- Paper
- Beads
- Plastic items
Allow it to Cure
It takes about 24 hours for the resin to harden, after which you can handle the mold. If the resin has cured properly, it will be hard and smooth to the touch, but if it is still tacky, the resin has not cured properly. This may be because you did not use the correct mixing method or it may be something you have added, which has then caused the resin not to cure correctly.
Slow curing resin takes between 48 and 72 hours, dependent on the type and brand of resin.
Demolding of the Dice
Demold your dice casting only once the resin has been fully cured. If proper curing hasn’t occurred yet, it will be sticky. In this case, put the casting in the refrigerator overnight. Hopefully, the stickiness will be gone the next day and your result will be a success. If it should remain sticky, you will have to discard it and make new dice. Remove the dice carefully. Should the silicone mold tear, you won’t be able to use it again.
Polishing and Finishing Touches
Should you see a small amount of extra material along the edges of the dice after you have removed it from the cast, it is a good sign. This is known as a sprue and happens because the polyhedral dice resin shrinks slightly during the curing phase. You need to carefully remove this with a utility knife or sharp instrument to enable the dice to roll properly. Sand down the dice with fine-grit sandpaper.
We suggest beginning with a P150-grit. Be careful when sanding down your dice that you don’t remove too much resin. Repeat sanding, using a P180-grit and after that a P220-grit. Continue with a P240-grit etc., until you obtain a smooth surface. To accomplish a fine, smooth finish, you may have to go up to P3000 grit sandpaper. To minimize dust, it is best to use water between each sanding.
Your dice will be nice and smooth but may still look cloudy. Use a microfiber cloth and resin polish to obtain a shiny finished product, ready to be used. Follow instructions as printed on the bottle, should you use a polish like Headlight Cleaning Polish.
Inspiration for your Resin Dice
As with all resin creations, there is so much room for experimentation and creativity when you are learning how to make your own dice. Allow your imagination to take flight and use the information in this article to make resin dice for yourself, family, or friends. Ideas you can use include:
- Personalize your dice by embedding objects in the resin.
- Get creative with colors.
- Make your DIY dice to use in a game you create yourself!
- You can make resin dice for special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, baby showers, or even for friends or colleagues at work.
- Try adding glitter and other powdered colors.
Now that you have read our tutorial, you have all the knowledge necessary to make your own resin dice very easily! Let your imagination run wild, and you can create unique and exciting sets of dice in only a few easy steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Make Your Own Resin Casting Molds?
Yes absolutely! If you do not want to buy resin molds, you can simply make your own with soft silicone. You can buy the silicone mixture and easily make your own dice mold using a dice that you already have. We outline this process in our tutorial so that you can begin immediately!
Is It Difficult to Learn How to Make Your Own Dice?
Learning how to make your own dice may seem like an intimidating process, but it can actually be very easy. All you need is some resin, some molds, and any fun embellishments. We guide you through the process of making your own resin dice in our tutorial!
