General Usage
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What makes ArtResin safe?
What Makes ArtResin Safe To Use?
ArtResin has been evaluated by a certified toxicologist and conforms to ASTM D4236 , ensuring it is non-toxic when used as directed. Made from the highest quality materials, ArtResin produces no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or fumes.Our formula is a clean system with no solvents or non-reactive diluents, meaning nothing becomes airborne to cause health issues. ArtResin is non-flammable in liquid form, classified as non-hazardous, and can be shipped by air. Additionally, unlike many epoxy resins, ArtResin has a low odor, making it more pleasant to work with.
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Is ArtResin food safe?
ArtResin Passes Food Safety Tests
Yes, once fully cured, ArtResin is inert and can be safely used as a food contact surface.ArtResin has been rigorously tested by a third party for leaching and migration across worldwide standards and passed every test: when used as directed, cured ArtResin will not transfer any substances into food.
For more details, please refer to ArtResin's Safety Data Sheet.
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What safety precautions should I take?
What Safety Precautions Should I Take When Using ArtResin Epoxy Resin?
ArtResin conforms to ASTM D-4236, indicating it has been evaluated as non-toxic and safe for home use when used as directed. Here are some common-sense safety precautions to follow:- Wear Gloves: Protect your skin from a sticky mess and potential irritation. If resin contacts your skin, clean promptly with soap and water.
- Eye Contact: If resin gets in your eyes, flush with water repeatedly without rubbing and seek medical attention immediately.
- Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area. Wear a respirator if ventilation is poor.
For detailed health information, please see ArtResin's Safety Data Sheet. -
How much resin do I need?
See our Resin Calculator or Circle Calculator for your specific coverage needs.
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What's the best temperature and humidity for working with epoxy resin?
Where Should I Epoxy Resin My Work?
Warm and dry conditions are best when working with ArtResin. Aim for an ideal temperature range of 75-85°F (24-30°C) and ideally with 50% humidity, or below 80%. It's important to maintain stable temperatures during the first 24 hours to avoid dimples in the cured resin. -
How do I prepare and apply resin correctly?
How To Measure and Mix Resin And Hardener
How To Pour and Spread Epoxy Resin- Measure Properly: Measure equal amounts of resin and hardener by volume, not weight. Altering the ratio will prevent proper curing.
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir for at least 3 minutes, scraping the bottom and sides of the container to ensure thorough mixing. Inadequate stirring will result in sticky, uncured resin.
- Remove Bubbles: If bubbles appear, don’t worry - use an Artist's Torch after pouring to eliminate them.
- Pour Carefully: Avoid scraping the sides of the container when pouring, as unmixed resin or hardener stuck to the sides will cause sticky spots.
- Coat Your Piece: Pour in the center and spread with a reusable spreader or an old credit card. ArtResin will naturally self-level to about 1/8" or 3 mm.
- Resin the Sides: To resin the sides of your piece, use a disposable foam brush or your gloved hand, or dome the resin by nudging it to the edge without going over the sides. ArtResin's thick texture helps it stay in place!
Follow these steps for a flawless resin finish!
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How thick can I apply ArtResin?
3 Ways To Get A Thick Layer Of Resin
ArtResin was formulated as a surface coating for artwork to be poured in thin applications. It naturally self-levels to 1/8" (3 mm). You can apply ArtResin as thick as you want, as long as you pour in multiple 1/8" layers. There are two methods for pouring multiple layers:1. Gel-Like Stage Method:
- Pour the initial 1/8" layer.
- Use a torch to remove bubbles.
- Cover and wait 3-5 hours until the ArtResin reaches a gel-like stage.
- Pour the next 1/8" layer, remove bubbles, cover, and wait another 3-5 hours.
- Repeat these steps until you reach the desired thickness. This method is ideal for molds or dams.
2. Dry Layer Method:
- Allow the first layer to dry completely.
- Wearing a dust mask, lightly sand the surface. Remove sanding dust.
- Pour the next 1/8" layer, remove bubbles, cover, and let it dry.
- Repeat these steps as needed to achieve the desired thickness.
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What's the working time of ArtResin?
What Is The Working Time Of ArtResin?
ArtResin epoxy resin has a working time of about 45 minutes before it starts to cure and becomes too stiff to work with. To ensure the best results, apply the resin immediately after mixing it for 3 minutes.
Note on Temperature:
Heat affects the working time of the resin. If the resin is warmed in a water bath, the working time decreases by about 10 minutes. Additionally, the cure time may also be shortened in temperatures above 85°F (25°C). Be mindful of your workspace temperature for optimal working time and curing results. -
What's the best way to remove bubbles from epoxy resin?
Tips To Prevent Resin Bubbles
Why Use A Torch With Resin?
The most efficient way to remove bubbles from epoxy resin is with a flame torch. Whether you use a butane Artist's Torch or a propane torch, the flame warms the resin surface instantly, thinning it out and allowing bubbles to escape easily. Heat guns can also work, especially with silicone molds; however they are less precise and tend to blow wet resin around. The flame also burns off tiny dust particles. Use caution with any torch or heat gun.Additional tips to prevent bubbles:
- Seal your work, especially wood or paper that might release air.
- Ensure your resin is at room temperature or warmer.
- Stir slowly instead of whipping your resin.
- Pour slowly.
- Pour in 1/8" (3 mm) layers to allow bubbles to escape.
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How long does ArtResin take to cure?
What's The Cure Time Of ArtResin Epoxy Resin?
ArtResin is dry to the touch within 24 hours and reaches its full cure in 72 hours. Ensure that the resin cures in a stable, room-temperature environment for optimal results. -
How can I protect wet resin from dust as it cures?
How Can I Protect My Resined Work From Dust?
How To Reduce Dust Before You Resin
Before you start resining, prepare a protective covering, such as a clean plastic tote or a large cardboard box with the flaps cut off. This way, it's available as soon as you finish applying the resin.If you're working in a garage or other dusty area, mist the air with water using a spray bottle to keep the dust down.
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How do I clean up epoxy resin?
How To Clean Up Epoxy Resin
Wear disposable gloves to protect your hands. Line your work surface with a plastic liner or a vinyl shower curtain, and use drop sheets on the ground for easy clean-up.Important: Do not pour leftover epoxy resin down the drain!
For cleaning:
- Wipe containers and reusable plastic tools with paper towels.
- Clean with isopropyl alcohol or acetone to remove all residue.
- Once all traces of resin are gone, wash with hot soapy water and air dry.
Alternatively, place wet tools on your plastic-lined work surface, let the resin cure, and peel it off the next day. -
What does resin stick to? What does resin not stick to?
What Materials Can I Or Can't I Use Epoxy Resin On?
ArtResin epoxy resin bonds well with most mediums, excluding materials that repel water such as wax, oil, and plastics, including silicone. It adheres well to wood, photographs, inkjet prints, fully dried acrylic, oil, watercolor, and spray paint, ink, oil pastel, paper collage, metal, glass, sculptures, flowers, rocks, and other found objects.Avoid pouring resin over loose materials such as glitter or chalk pastels, as they may float in the liquid resin. Soft papers may absorb resin; apply a sealant first to create a barrier. It's a good practice to test your materials with resin before beginning your project. Enjoy experimenting!
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Should I seal my work before I resin?
Should I Seal my Artwork Before I Resin?
In most cases, you don’t need a sealant before applying ArtResin. However, sealing is recommended for materials like paper that could absorb resin, loose materials that might float, and natural objects like wood that could off-gas air. Use a clear-drying brush-on or spray sealant appropriate for your artwork.
If unsure, apply a sealant first and test on a scrap piece so you know exactly what results to expect. -
What is ArtResin's heat resistance?
What Is ArtResin's Heat Resistance?
Cured ArtResin can withstand temperatures up to 120°F (50°C). At this temperature, the resin may become slightly flexible but will harden again once cooled. Placing a hot cup of coffee on a coaster typically won’t damage the resin surface. However, exposing cured resin to temperatures exceeding 120°F (50°C), such as placing a hot dish from the oven on it or leaving it in a hot car, can cause irreversible damage. -
Can I apply a second coat or multiple coats?
Sanding Epoxy Between Coats
Yes, you can apply a second coat of ArtResin. To repair imperfections like bubbles, hair, or dust, first sand out the imperfection and then sand the entire piece to create a rough surface for the new layer to adhere to. The scuffed marks will disappear under the fresh coat. Prepare and apply the second layer just like the first.
You can pour multiple layers of ArtResin to cover high relief areas, fill molds, or achieve a thicker coat. The ideal thickness for each pour is 1/8" (3 mm) to avoid trapping bubbles. Layer ArtResin in increments of 1/8" (3 mm) until reaching the desired height.
There are two methods for pouring multiple layers:- Pour the first layer, torch out bubbles, cover, and wait 3-5 hours until it reaches the gel stage. Pour the next layer, torch out bubbles, cover, and repeat until repeat as needed.
- Alternatively, let the first layer fully dry. While wearing a dust mask, sand the surface with coarse sandpaper, clean up the dust, and pour the next layer. Torch out bubbles, cover, and let it dry. Repeat as needed.
- Pour the first layer, torch out bubbles, cover, and wait 3-5 hours until it reaches the gel stage. Pour the next layer, torch out bubbles, cover, and repeat until repeat as needed.
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Can ArtResin be used on outdoor projects?
Can Resin Art Be Hung Outside?
ArtResin epoxy resin contains advanced UV and Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers to protect it from degradation, including yellowing caused by UV light exposure. However, deliberately exposing it to UV light is not recommended. -
Can I use ArtResin on countertops and floors?
ArtResin epoxy resin is durable and food safe once fully cured, but keep in mind that it was designed as a surface coating for artwork. While it is scratch-resistant, it’s not scratch-proof.
On the other hand, our Industrial Clear epoxy resin was specifically formulated to handle tough situations and high-traffic areas like counters and floors.
It’s important to note that epoxy resin may be slippery when wet. -
What is the shelf life of ArtResin?
Does Epoxy Resin Expire?
What Can You Do With Yellowed Hardener?
ArtResin remains fresh for about 6 months in opened bottles or 1 year unopened from the date of manufacture. The manufacture date can be found on the ArtResin label.After this time, the hardener may yellow in the bottle due to oxidation. It's important to note that this yellowing effect occurs only to the hardener in the liquid state; it's much like the browning of an apple or avocado once cut and exposed to oxygen. Oxidation is not the same as UV-induced yellowing, which occurs after cured resin has been exposed to direct sunlight.
While it may appear worse in the bottle, once you mix the hardener with the resin (which remains clear), the yellowing will dilute significantly. The yellowed hardener will still cure as expected. While it may not be ideal for light-colored artwork, it’s suitable for darker pieces of art, over wood, or for use with tints.