Resin adds strength when it hardens, but the cloth is actually the structure. Almost like the cloth is the skeleton and the resin is the muscle and skin. The resin holds it in place and adds a buffer, but when applied to the mat or cloth, it stiffens and acts as a support.
For the visor, I would reccomend flourescant acrylic. It is just plexiglass that has a color and glows in light. A good place to see it in action is in punishedprops samus helmet build video, and odinmakes dragonball z scouter. I know someplaces have it cheaper than others, and I was planning to purchase some from this site since it looked better and was alot more budget friendly.
Fluorescent Transparent Acrylic SheetFluorescent Acrylic Sheet is a specialized type of sheet, with the unique ability to glow at the edges in natural light. A certain type of manufacturing allows these sheets to catch and disperse sunlight or ambient room light to the edges to create a distinct...
www.delviesplastics.com
I havent done an extensive amount of research though, and there may be a reason why it is cheaper, but if for whatever reason you do use this product, let us know how it goes