generic UV resin for finishing

[j0eman]

My brother and I just started a new woodworking project, and we're looking at finishing options. That fancy UV curing finish look (like Clean Armor or Solarez) is incredible, but man, those pro brands are easily over $150 a quart!
That's just too rich for a hobby budget. We've seen generic UV craft resin on Amazon for like, $25 a quart, it's more suitable.
Has anyone here actually tried using that cheap Amazon UV resin for a woodworking project?
how is it, did it hold up, or is it a total disaster? Spill the beans!

 

[dennisandco]

I’ve tried the cheaper UV craft resin on a small side table, and honestly, it looked amazing at first, crystal clear and glossy. But after a few months, it started yellowing a bit and scratched pretty easily. So I would say it’s fine for decorative pieces or low wear surfaces, but I wouldn’t trust it on something that sees daily use

 

[f0ndu]

They’re nowhere near as tough as the pro stuff, I second. Me and my dad have witnessed this before

 

[kortana01]

I agree with @f0ndu , but for hobby projects, they’re a budget friendly way to get a glossy finish

 

[Mntgmry]

Another option is looking at water based poly or somethingif you want durability without the crazy price tag. Not as fast as UV cure but way cheaper than $150 a quart and proven results