The Jesmonite AC100 Starter Kit is the most straightforward way to start working with Jesmonite's water-based acrylic resin: no solvents, no VOCs, and everything you need to make your first pieces from day one. This kit includes pigments, reusable silicone moulds and step-by-step instructions so you can cast coasters and decorative objects without needing any additional materials.
Kit contents
Component
Quantity
Jesmonite AC100 Liquid
240 g
Jesmonite AC100 Base (powder)
600 g
Liquid pigments (white, yellow, red, green, blue)
x6 units of 2 ml
Reusable silicone moulds
Included
Mixing sticks (spatulas)
x2
Nitrile gloves size M
x1 pair
Technical specifications
Property
Value
Base
Water-based acrylic resin
Solvents / VOC
None
Application
Casting and laminating
Fire resistance
Yes
Impact resistance
High
Weight (base material)
Lightweight
Mix ratio (AC100 reference)
1 part liquid : 2.5 parts powder (by weight)
What it is used for
Jesmonite AC100 is the reference material for creating cast decorative objects with a mineral or stone-like finish, without the hazards associated with polyester or epoxy resins. This starter kit is designed to help you take your first steps with the material in a guided way, with everything included.
Coasters and decorative home objects
Replicas of ornamental and architectural pieces
Boxes and moulded panels with mineral texture
Lightweight, impact-resistant prototypes and scale models
Props and set dressing pieces with a stone-like finish
Creative and workshop projects for beginners and semi-professionals
How to use it
Prepare the mould: the included reusable silicone moulds do not require a release agent, but make sure they are clean and dry.
Weigh the components: mix 1 part AC100 liquid to 2.5 parts base powder (by weight). For this kit, that means using the 240 g of liquid with the 600 g of powder.
Add the pigment: add a few drops of Jesmonite liquid pigment directly to the liquid before mixing with the powder, or into the already combined mixture.
Mix: combine the liquid with the powder using one of the included mixing sticks. Mix for approximately 2 minutes until you obtain a smooth, lump-free consistency.
Cast into the mould: pour the mixture into the silicone moulds slowly to minimise the introduction of bubbles.
Demould: leave to cure at room temperature. Once the surface has lost its wet sheen and the piece feels firm to the touch (approx. 30–60 min depending on temperature), demould carefully.
Final finish: leave to dry completely for 24 hours before sanding, painting or applying any surface finish.
Usage tips
Temperature and working time
Jesmonite AC100 sets faster at higher temperatures. In summer or in warm workshops, work quickly once mixing has started. If you need more working time for complex pieces or marbling techniques, you can look into using a retarder in compatible formulations.
Colour techniques and marbling
One of the great advantages of AC100 is how easy it is to create marble, stone or terrazzo effects. Prepare several small portions of mix with different liquid pigments and pour them into the mould alternately without mixing them fully together. The result is a very attractive natural veining effect. Practise with small amounts before tackling larger pieces.
How to avoid bubbles
Always mix slowly and with folding movements rather than beating. If you have access to a vibrating table or even a drill with a mixing attachment at low speed, use them carefully. Tapping the mould gently on the table a couple of times after casting helps surface bubbles rise and burst. For more complex laminates, consider using a thixotropic agent to control viscosity.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a release agent to use the moulds included in the kit?
No. The reusable silicone moulds included in the Jesmonite AC100 kit have natural non-stick properties, so no release agent is needed for AC100 castings. Make sure they are clean and completely dry before each use.
Is it safe to work with this material at home or in enclosed spaces?
Yes. Jesmonite AC100 is water-based and contains no solvents or volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making it much safer than conventional polyester or epoxy resins. Even so, it is recommended to wear the gloves included in the kit and work in a space with basic ventilation.
Can I mix several colours in the same casting?
Yes, and it is one of the most popular techniques with Jesmonite AC100. Prepare small portions with each pigment separately and pour them into the mould without mixing them fully to achieve marble, terrazzo or veining effects. The kit includes five colours (white, yellow, red, green and blue) that you can combine with each other.
How long does it take to cure and when can it be demoulded?
The Jesmonite AC100 mixture starts to set after 15–20 minutes at room temperature (20 °C). Demoulding is usually possible between 30 and 60 minutes after casting, once the surface has lost its wet sheen and the piece feels firm to the touch. For full cure and maximum strength, wait 24 hours before handling, sanding or applying finishes.
Can I make larger pieces with this material, or only coasters?
The starter kit is aimed at small pieces such as coasters to learn the technique, but AC100 is fully scalable. Once you have mastered the process, you can purchase Jesmonite AC100 in standard format to tackle wall panels, sculptures or larger architectural elements, even in combination with glass fibre reinforcement.
What happens if the mixture is too thick or too liquid?
The correct mix ratio is essential: 1 part liquid to 2.5 parts powder by weight. If you add too much powder the mixture will be difficult to pour and may trap more bubbles. If you add too much liquid, the final strength of the piece will be compromised and setting time will increase. Always weigh the components using a kitchen scale for consistent results.
Is this material suitable for outdoor use?
Jesmonite AC100 has good water resistance once cured, but for prolonged outdoor applications or constant contact with moisture it is advisable to apply a suitable sealer or protective varnish over the finished piece. Refer to the official technical data sheet for more details on environmental resistance.
Can I use this kit as an introduction before moving on to more advanced materials?
That is exactly what it is designed for. The Jesmonite AC100 starter kit allows you to get familiar with the mixing, casting and demoulding process using a safe material with no special equipment required. Once you have mastered the basic technique, you can expand with the mould making kit for resins or explore other material families.
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