Resin statues are alternatives to traditional figures made from cast stone. Resin is a synthetic polymer material lighter in weight than stone. A statue made of resin costs less that a traditional cast stone piece, sometimes due to its much lower shipping weight alone. Resin statues range from life-size garden pieces to small figurines made to fit into planters or flower pots. Do-it-yourself aging techniques can give a statue made of resin the look that very old stone statues have.
There are instruction books available online and in craft stores on painting and distressing resin statues to look like old stone. The resin paint-aged statues may be dented and then hand painted in an antique finish. Different metal and stone faux finishing looks can mimic chrome, marble, stone or brass. In some cases, it can be very difficult for resin lightweight statues to be distinguishable from the traditional cast stone type if the finishing is applied well. Craft stores may sell resin indoor or outdoor statues ready for painting along with instruction books for paint techniques.
Craft supplies for making resin statues should include silicone molds. Silicone gives the best finished result for the statue mixture. The resin mixture to pour into the molds is usually sold in powdered form. If fiberglass is added, it may be sold as glass-fiber polyester resin.
Finished resin statues can be purchased at many home improvement stores as well as some statuary supply companies. The subjects available cover a wide range from religious to whimsical. Everything from angels and saints to animals can be purchased in a statue made of resin today. Resin statues that are also a fountain, bird bath or planter are very popular for decorative use in yards and gardens. Finished statues can also decorate indoor planters in sun rooms.
By examining their yards and planning the placement of each statue to enhance landscaping, homeowners can often create an attractive yard in the style they love. Resin garden statues should definitely be used sparingly to avoid a cluttered or cheap look. Deciding on a theme, such as an enchanted forest, fairyland or heavenly angels scene, is a good idea when planning for a yard to contain resin statues.
A disadvantage of resin statues is that they may crack in below-freezing temperatures. For this reason, it's best to store resin figures inside during very cold weather. Typically, statues refer to large or life-size figures, while smaller pieces are sold as figurines or statuettes.
