You've watched our tutorials and heard us say how easy it is to use ArtResin epoxy resin. The truth is, it IS easy... but it's not foolproof. Here are the top 3 things people do wrong when they first try using resin... follow along so you don't have to learn the hard way!
You first need to know that epoxy resin comes in 2 parts: a resin and a hardener. When these two parts are mixed according to directions, a chemical reaction occurs which causes the liquid mixture to cure. When this chemical reaction is somehow prevented or disrupted, a perfect cure is no longer possible, and the result is a sticky mess! Below is what not to do! :)
1. Not Measuring Accurately
ArtResin is a 1:1 mixing ratio and was formulated to be measured by volume, not weight. It's important to be accurate when measuring both parts to ensure the ratio is indeed equal, because any material that cannot catalyze properly will remain uncured and sticky.
2. Not Mixing Thoroughly
Once you've ensured your mixing ratio is accurate and equal, it's important to mix
both parts together thoroughly. Again, if any material cannot catalyze properly by
any means, including not being blended well enough, it will not be able to cure
fully. Mixing vigorously for three to four solid minutes, scraping the sides and
bottom of the container, should ensure everything can thoroughly catalyze.
both parts together thoroughly. Again, if any material cannot catalyze properly by
any means, including not being blended well enough, it will not be able to cure
fully. Mixing vigorously for three to four solid minutes, scraping the sides and
bottom of the container, should ensure everything can thoroughly catalyze.
3. Trying to Cheat the Cure Time By Adding More Hardener
ArtResin cures mostly (to 95%) within 24 hours, with it's fullest cure in 72 hrs.
Sometimes people think they can speed up this cure time by adding more
hardener to the mixture, however this only throws off the delicate 1:1 mixing
ratio and causing curing issues. The best way to encourage curing is to
increase the room temperature, since curing is accelerated by heat.
Sometimes people think they can speed up this cure time by adding more
hardener to the mixture, however this only throws off the delicate 1:1 mixing
ratio and causing curing issues. The best way to encourage curing is to
increase the room temperature, since curing is accelerated by heat.
If you follow our simple how-to instructions and simply measure and mix your ArtResin properly, you will have no difficulty using and applying ArtResin to your project!
If however you have made these mistakes already and need to know what to do to fix them, see our video on applying a second coat of ArtResin.
If however you have made these mistakes already and need to know what to do to fix them, see our video on applying a second coat of ArtResin.
