as in, are there any? That aren't as scary? I want to use something similar for jewelry.

Depends on what you are trying to do.

I have a round depression in a ring that I'd like to fill with a clear substance so I can make it stronger and the picture won't be scratched or damaged through wear.

I'd like to know too! That ventilator stuff is super scary to me but I love what resin can do...

well if you don't mind rubberiness you could prolly really carefully fill a mold w/silicone rubber...i don't know how you'd go about doing that though and what kind of mold you'd use..

I use Envirotex instead of resin... you still need to use it carefully and in a well ventilated work space. But its not as dangerous as resin.

Sorry, Kittyblack. Envirotex is a brand name for a type of epoxy resin. I don't know why people think it's not resin (maybe because of the brand name?), but it is.

I think I've posted this before, but all resins (and for that matter, all polymer plastics) are hazardous to some degree. Here is the safety info on Envirotex:>http://www.eti-usa.com/MSDS/Envirotex%20Lite%20Resin.htm

OK, that said, the toxicity shouldn't scare you out of using resin! If you take the right precautions (at the very least proper ventilation and hopefully a respirator, eye protection and neoprene gloves) you won't have any problems. A respirator really shouldn't scare you. Yeah, they're not super cheap (I found an OSHA and NIOSH certified one online at Home Depot for about $40, but you may be able to find one for less at a local paint, hardware, or safety supply store--I wouldn't order one online anyway, because I'd probably want try it on for fit and make sure it's comfortable), but in the long run, the expense is worth it. Also, a respirator is really usefull when painting, sanding, using spray adhesives and fixatives, and when using things like ammonia-based liquid latex...anyhow, I'm a sculpture nerd, so a respirator is really handy for me. I think if you're using small quantities of resin and you don't want to buy a respirator, you could just work outside and cover your project while it cures.

I agree with Mz MonkeyRocker! The respirator is your friend! I bought one for 25 bucks at the hardware store, and replacement filters are not expensive. Painting the interior of your pad, using E6000 glue, Envirotex, really any product that now has that California Cancer warning on it... Craft is only fun if you are healthy and non-headachy.

Envirotex Rocks! Get a respirator.... -flip

I think if I'm going to use any of this stuff it'll be when I have a better place to live and work in. I guess I'll have to find another solution, I don't want to play with the chemicals by myself right now.