ArtResin can be applied to a variety of paper including photo paper, watercolor paper, cardboard, drawing paper, tracing paper, tissue paper, linen paper, origami paper, stickers and Yupo paper.
Why Is It Necessary To Seal Paper?
Sealing paper before applying epoxy resin prevents issues such as dark, wet spots or your artwork bleeding. Paper varies widely in quality, sheen, porosity, and whether it’s coated, so it’s essential to test your paper first to determine if sealing is necessary.
Types of Paper and Sealing Needs
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Coated Paper: This type is manufactured with a sealant on the surface, giving it a smooth, shiny finish. It usually does not require additional sealing.
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Porous Paper: Papers like newsprint, construction paper, or uncoated fine art paper are more absorbent and need to be sealed to prevent resin from seeping in.
To test if your paper needs sealing, drop a small amount of water on a scrap piece. If the water is absorbed, the resin likely will be too. Depending on the paper, you may need to apply more than one coat of sealant.
Additional Considerations
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Loose Materials: If your paper has materials like charcoal, chalk pastel, or glitter, sealing is necessary to prevent these items from floating away when the resin is poured.
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Trapped Air: Paper can trap air that might release as bubbles in the resin. Factors such as the dryness of the paper, the amount of trapped air, and whether the paper is layered in a collage can affect bubble formation. Sealing can help reduce the occurrence of air bubbles.
What Type Of Sealant Is Best For Paper?
- Choose a sealant that dries clear, is non-yellowing and appropriate for your artwork.
- A brush on sealant may damage delicate artwork, in which case a spray sealant might be a better choice.
- Allow the sealant to dry before you apply your resin coat.
- Always test first before you resin your final piece to make sure there is no reaction between the sealant and resin.
Best Practices for Resin Application
When working with resin, keep these best practices in mind:
- Ensure Complete Dryness: Make sure your paper is fully dry before applying resin. Moisture can lead to unsightly stains and affect the final appearance.
- Accurate Measurements: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing resin and hardener. Precision is vital for achieving the desired consistency and curing properties.
- Ventilation is Essential: Work in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to fumes. Consider wearing a mask for added protection.
- Protect Your Hands: Use nitrile gloves to shield your skin from potential reactions with the resin.
Challenges to Anticipate
While resin can create beautiful effects, be aware of the following challenges:
- Discoloration Risks: Untreated paper can yellow when resin is applied. Always seal your paper to avoid this issue.
- Air Bubbles: Bubbles may form during the pouring process. To reduce this, pour slowly and use a heat gun or torch to eliminate any bubbles that appear.
- Material Compatibility: Not all materials are suitable for embedding in resin. Always test additional items to ensure they won't react negatively with the resin.
Can I use any type of paper with resin?
While most paper types can be used, thicker papers and cardstock tend to hold up better against resin.
Conclusion
Combining resin with paper opens up a world of creative possibilities. By understanding the techniques, challenges, and best practices outlined in this guide, you can confidently embark on your resin art projects. Remember to experiment, have fun, and let your creativity shine!
Do you want to learn more about using ArtResin epoxy resin? Read our guides below and get informed:
- How To Use ArtResin
- How To Apply Epoxy Resin
- Can I Use Epoxy Resin On Fabric?
- Can I Use Epoxy Resin As A Glue?
- What Materials Can I Use Epoxy Resin On?
- Why Should I Use Support Blocks When Using Epoxy Resin?
- Can I Embed Objects In Clear Resin?
- Can You Put Epoxy Resin On Polymer Clay?
- Can I Use ArtResin To Make Coasters & Hotplates?
- Can I Use Epoxy Resin Over Organic Materials & Natural Objects?
- How To Use The 10 Gallon Pro Bulk Kit
ArtResin: The Original Epoxy For Resin Art.
