The Jesmonite AC100 Starter Kit Portavelas is the most straightforward way to start working with water-based acrylic resin without having to buy materials separately. The kit includes everything needed to produce high-quality decorative candle holders: resin, base liquid, silicone moulds, pigments and accessories. A solvent-free, VOC-free material that is fire resistant and surprisingly lightweight for the finish it delivers.
Kit contents
| Component |
Quantity |
| Jesmonite AC100 Base Liquid | 240 ml |
| Jesmonite AC100 Base Powder | 600 g |
| Silicone moulds (different sizes) | 3 units |
| Pigments (2 ml each) | 6 colours |
| Dosing pipette | 1 unit |
| Mixing sticks | 2 units |
| Protective gloves | 2 units |
| Step-by-step instructions | Included |
Material technical specifications
| Property |
Value |
| Base | Water-based acrylic resin |
| Solvents | Solvent-free and VOC-free |
| Fire resistance | Yes |
| Cured material weight | Lightweight |
| Impact resistance | High |
| Application | Casting in mould |
| Colour compatibility | Specific pigments for AC100 |
What it is used for
Jesmonite AC100 is a decorative casting material particularly suited to interior objects that require a clean, lightweight and durable finish. This kit is specifically aimed at creating candle holders, but the techniques learned are directly transferable to other similar projects.
- Decorative candle holders in different sizes
- Decorative home objects (plant pots, trays, bowls)
- Ornamental cast replicas
- Low-cost prototypes and scale models
- Wall panels and decorative cladding
- Educational or training workshop projects using safe materials
How to use it
- Prepare your work area: cover the surface with paper or plastic. Wear the included gloves throughout the entire process.
- Measure the components: mix the AC100 base liquid with the AC100 powder in the ratio indicated in the kit instructions (generally 1 part liquid to 2.5 parts powder by weight).
- Add the pigment: incorporate the AC100-compatible pigment into the liquid mix before adding the powder, or mix directly into the mass. Use the pipette to dose precisely.
- Mix until homogeneous: stir with the mixing stick for at least 2–3 minutes until you obtain a lump-free, evenly coloured mass.
- Pour into the silicone mould: slowly cast the mix into the chosen mould. Tap the mould gently against the work surface a few times to remove air bubbles.
- Allow to cure: the material starts to set in 15–20 minutes. Wait at least 45–60 minutes before demoulding to avoid deformations.
- Demould carefully: the silicone moulds in the kit allow demoulding by gently flexing them without the need for a release agent.
- Final finish: sand or smooth the base if needed to achieve a stable footing. You can apply a coat of wax or decorative sealer if desired.
Usage tips
Temperature and working time
Jesmonite AC100 works best between 18 and 25 °C. Below 15 °C the cure slows considerably and the surface may take on a chalky appearance. In summer or in warm conditions, prepare smaller quantities if you are not experienced, as the working time shortens. Never use hot water for mixing: it accelerates setting in an uncontrolled way.
Colour control
The pigments included in the kit are formulated to be compatible with the AC100 acrylic base. Start with small amounts (1–3 drops per 100 g of mix) and build up gradually until you reach the desired shade. If you want to create marble or veining effects, add different colours without fully mixing them and pour with a circular motion. For more advanced projects using additional pigments, always make sure to use pigments specifically compatible with water-based acrylic resins.
Mould reuse and cleaning
The silicone moulds included in the kit are reusable. Clean them with warm water and mild soap after each use. Do not use solvents or acetone on the silicone: they degrade it. If material remains stuck, wait until it is fully cured and remove it with a flexible plastic spatula. For serial production with these moulds, you can apply a light coat of release wax spray before each casting to extend the mould's service life.
Frequently asked questions
Is this material safe to use at home?
Yes. Jesmonite AC100 is formulated without solvents or volatile organic compounds (VOC), making it suitable for use in domestic spaces with normal ventilation. Use the gloves included in the kit and avoid direct contact with eyes. It does not require a vapour mask as other resin systems do.
Can I use the candle holder with real lit candles?
Jesmonite AC100 has inherent fire resistance, but it is not intended for direct contact with flames. Use it to hold tealight candles in their metal container or candles in a glass. Avoid placing candles without a container directly on the cured piece for prolonged periods.
How many pieces can I make with the kit material?
With 600 g of powder and 240 ml of base liquid you can obtain approximately 3 to 5 candle holders depending on the size of the chosen mould. Larger moulds consume more mix per piece. If you want to scale up production, you can purchase Jesmonite AC100 separately in a larger format.
Can it be mixed with other fillers or aggregates?
Yes. Jesmonite AC100 accepts fillers such as fine sand, marble powder, mica or decorative aggregates to modify the appearance and weight of the final piece. Add them to the powder before mixing with the base liquid. Do not use wet organic fillers or materials that react with water, as they may interfere with curing.
Can I slow down the setting time if I need more working time?
The working time of AC100 is around 10–15 minutes depending on ambient temperature. If you need more time for decorative techniques or for pouring into complex moulds, work in a cooler environment or use the retarder for acrylic resins, which is compatible with this type of material. Do not add extra water to extend the time: it weakens the final piece.
Is it necessary to use a release agent with the kit's silicone moulds?
Not for the first uses. The included silicone moulds have enough flexibility to demould without release agents. If you reuse the moulds intensively or work with mixes heavily loaded with pigments or aggregates, a light coat of release wax helps extend the mould's life and makes demoulding easier.
Can the cured piece be sanded, painted or sealed?
Yes. Cured Jesmonite AC100 can be sanded, painted with water-based acrylic paints and sealed with water-based or solvent-based varnishes. If you want a smoother surface, start with 120-grit sandpaper and finish with 400. For a glossy finish, apply an acrylic sealer or a coat of wax. No primer is required before painting.
What is the difference between this kit and buying Jesmonite AC100 separately?
This kit is designed for beginners: it includes ready-to-use silicone moulds, pre-selected pigments, accessories and a step-by-step guide. Buying Jesmonite AC100 separately makes sense once you have mastered the process and need larger quantities of material for ongoing production.
