Alumilite Clear Slow vs. JB Royal Original: Which Casting Resin is Right for You?

When it comes to casting resin pen and project blanks with vibrant swirls and crystal-clear finishes, two names consistently stand out in the woodworking and resin artistry world: Alumilite Clear Slow and JB Royal Original. At Cross Cut Creations, we’ve worked with both, and each brings unique strengths to the table. So how do they compare—and which might be the better fit for your next project?

Key Similarities

While these two resins have subtle differences, they also share a lot in common, making both ideal choices for pen turners and resin artists:

1. Crystal Clarity

Both Alumilite Clear Slow and JB Royal Original produce clear, glass-like finishes that make pigments, mica powders, and embedded objects pop.

2. Low Viscosity

Each resin flows easily into mold cavities, reducing the risk of air bubbles and improving detail retention in pen blanks and other intricate designs.

3. Pressure Pot Compatibility

These resins cure best in a pressure pot, minimizing microbubbles and ensuring a professional-grade finish for your final product.

Crucial Differences

Where these resins really distinguish themselves is in their working properties. Choosing the right one often depends on your project needs and workflow.

1. Working Time

• Alumilite Clear Slow: Offers around 12 minutes of open time, which is great for quick pours and layered designs.

• JB Royal Original: Boasts a longer working time—around 30 to 40 minutes—giving you more flexibility for detailed color work and large pours.

2. Mix Ratio

• Alumilite Clear Slow: Requires a 1:1 ratio by weight, which demands precise measurement for a perfect cure.

• JB Royal Original: Mixes 1:1 by volume, simplifying the measuring process for casual or large-batch pours.

3. Cure Time

• Alumilite typically demolds within 2 to 4 hours under pressure.

• JB Royal takes longer to cure, often requiring 12 to 24 hours to safely demold, especially for deep pours.

4. Pigment Compatibility

Both resins work well with mica powders and dyes, but JB Royal’s extended working time gives artists extra freedom to manipulate pigment distribution for swirls, fades, and effects.

Which Resin is Best for Pen Blanks?

If you're all about quick turnaround with consistent results, Alumilite Clear Slow is a trusted classic. But if you're experimenting with more complex or artistic pours, JB Royal Original gives you the time to finesse every detail.

At Cross Cut Creations, we’ve used both to craft stunning pen and project blanks—and we’re constantly exploring new resin mixes to elevate our designs. Whether you're a hobbyist or seasoned maker, the resin you choose can transform your final piece.

Want to see the results up close? Browse our latest resin mixes or sign up for our newsletter to get behind-the-scenes casting tips, exclusive deals, and sneak peeks at upcoming drops.

Happy casting!