FAQ 2 - Materials

Materials

  1. What can/can't I use ArtResin on?

    • What Materials Can I Or Can't I Use Epoxy Resin On?

    • ArtResin epoxy resin will bond well to every medium, with the exception of wax paper and plastics including silicone (i.e. materials that repel water). It works extremely well on wood, photographs, inkjet prints, acrylic, oil paint that has completely dried, watercolour, spray paint, ink, paper collage, oil pastel, sculpture, flowers, rocks, and other found objects. You may want to avoid pouring it over loose materials (this may include chalk pastels); anything that is not completely adhered to the surface of your work could potentially mix into the resin in its liquid form once it's poured and float around. Some lower quality papers absorb resin rather than allowing it to sit on top, in which case a sealant should be used over the paper first to avoid seepage. The best thing to do is experiment and have fun!

  2. Can I use ArtResin over oil paintings?

    • Yes, you can use ArtResin epoxy resin over oil paint once it has dried thoroughly. It will fully bond to and seal in any dry oil painting.

  3. Can I use ArtResin over acrylic paint? 

  4. Can I use ArtResin over watercolor?

    • How To Resin Watercolor
    • Yes, you can use ArtResin epoxy resin over watercolor. Usually watercolor paper is very thick and high quality in order to be able to stand up to water which makes it the perfect paper to apply resin to. Some papers can absorb resin, but watercolor paper typically does not.

  5. Can I use ArtResin over spray paint?

  6. Can I use ArtResin over inkjet prints?

    • Yes, you can use ArtResin epoxy resin over inkjet prints. There are many different kinds and brands of ink and paper, all of which will behave slightly differently. Glossy printed paper tends to work better than matte paper in allowing the resin to sit on top of the print without absorbing in. Glossy prints done at your local print shop will typically work great with ArtResin epoxy resin.

  7. Can I use ArtResin over printed photographs?

    • How To Resin A Glossy Photo
    • Yes, you can use ArtResin epoxy resin over photographs for a finished, frameless modern look. Printing on glossy paper typically yields the best result.

  8. Can I use ArtResin over paper?

    • How To Resin A Paper Collage.
    • Can I Use Epoxy Resin Over Paper?
    • Yes. ArtResin epoxy resin will seal in all kinds of papers, including photo paper, tracing paper, linen paper, origami paper, Yupo paper, etc. Resin isn’t like water—if you pour it on paper, it doesn’t necessarily soak into it provided you are using good quality paper. If you apply wet resin on dry paper, you will be able to touch the other side of the paper and it will be dry. Low to medium quality papers can absorb the resin making colors appear darker, however this can be corrected by first applying a sealant such as Mod Podge before using ArtResin epoxy resin. Glossy paper works best for photos. If you are curious or hesitant as to what the outcome will be, simply conduct a test on a small piece of scrap paper first.

  9. Can I use ArtResin over Yupo synthetic paper?

  10. Can I use ArtResin on a puzzle?

    • How To Resin A Puzzle
    • Can I Use Resin On A Puzzle?
    • Yes, you can easily use ArtResin epoxy resin over a puzzle. Cut a piece of MDF board to the exact dimensions of your puzzle and adhere your puzzle to the board with white glue. It's always best practice to pre-treat your puzzle with a sealant first, as the resin may soak into the paper and make it look darker, especially around the perimeter of each puzzle piece.
      Measure, mix and apply the ArtResin epoxy resin. Often puzzles require 2 coats because air is released from between the pieces in the puzzle which tends to create pitting in the first layer. A second layer will take care of any surface imperfections. Always remember to sand in between layers to encourage proper adhesion. 

  11. Can I use ArtResin over wood?

    • How To Resin Wood
    • Can I Apply ArtResin Epoxy Resin To Live Edge Wood?
    • Yes, ArtResin epoxy resin looks great over wood! It brings out the wood's natural colors and grain, protecting it for the longterm. Always ensure your wood is thoroughly dried before applying ArtResin and it's a good idea to seal it prior to resining to avoid off-gassing air bubbles.

  12. Can I use ArtResin on aluminum prints?

  13. Can I use ArtResin over marker? 

    • How To Resin Marker
    • Yes, you can resin over water-based or permanent marker once dry, however in most cases you will need to use a sealant over the marker first to prevent bleeding and/or discoloration. Always test first before you pour ArtResin over your masterpiece. 

  14. Can I use ArtResin over chalk pastels?

    • How To Resin Chalk Pastel.
    • Yes, but be aware that chalk pastel is made up of loose particles that could mix with the resin. If you are applying a large quantity of resin, you may be able to tilt the surface (e.g. your canvas or board) in order to spread the resin around—much like batter in a cake pan—(instead of using a spreader) to help prevent unwanted mixing.

  15. Can I use ArtResin over sculpture?

  16. Can I make jewelry with ArtResin ?

    • Making Jewelry Pendants with ArtResin Epoxy Resin
    • Yes, however ArtResin epoxy resin is best for certain types of jewelry making where the resin is poured into/onto a support (e.g. pendants). It may not be appropriate for pieces that are meant to be worn without a substrate (e.g. a bangle). Try experimenting with colored pigments and dyes, pouring it into silicone molds and into bezels. Add attachments like hooks, pins, beads and gems either as the resin is curing, or afterward using a strong adhesive.

  17. Can I embed an object in epoxy resin (e.g. a penny)?

  18. Can I use ArtResin with glass?

    • How To Resin Glass Mosaic
    • Yes, you can apply ArtResin epoxy resin as an adhesive for glass tiles and mosaics (i.e. like clear grout), and you can also pour it overtop of shard glass to make sure sharp edges are not exposed.

  19. Can I use ArtResin over organic material and natural objects?

    • Can I Use Epoxy Resin Over Natural Objects?
    • How To Resin Rocks
    • Can You Resin Leaves?
    • Yes, ArtResin epoxy resin can be used over organic material such as butterfly wings, rocks and leaves. The resin will seal it in, protecting it from the air and preserving its natural brilliant color. Be aware that resin can make some items look as they would when wet - test first so you know exactly what to expect.  Make sure natural items are thoroughly dried or they may rot under the resin.  Some natural objects can off-gas trapped air into the resin in the form of bubbles - you may want to seal first as a precaution. Choose items that are fairly flat so the resin is sure to cover them completely, or you may need to pour multiple coats to cover areas of high relief. Use caution when pouring and spreading over delicate areas of your artwork and be aware that the resin is thick and can be heavy if a large amount is used. Because of this, you may wish to apply the resin in thin coats.

  20. Can I use ArtResin over gold leaf?

  21. Can I use ArtResin over textured artwork?

    • How To Resin Modelling Clay
    • Yes. Depending on how high the texture is, you may need to apply multiple coats if you want a perfectly flat resin surface on top. To apply multiple layers of resin, allow the first coat to thicken to a gel-like state (usually takes 3-5 hours), then pour a second coat overtop to cover any areas that are sticking up. Repeat as often as necessary, torching after each pour.

  22. Can I use ArtResin on fabric?

    • Can I Use ArtResin On Fabric?
    • Yes, ArtResin will make the fabric stiff and rock hard after it cures. Be advised that the resin will make the fabric look wet and may even make it look darker or alter its colour. Try testing with water on the fabric first to give you an idea of what it will look like once resined. You can use ArtResin on any fabric, but we always advise testing first so you know exactly what results to expect. 

  23. Can I use ArtResin with polymer clay?

    • Can You Put Epoxy Resin On Polymer Clay?
    • Yes, ArtResin epoxy can be used over polymer clay to seal, strengthen and give your sculptural piece a beautiful glossy look. Apply a thin coat with a disposable foam brush, gloved hands or small objects may be dipped into a cup of ArtResin.

  24. Can I use ArtResin to make coasters and hot plates?

    • Can I Use ArtResin To Make Coasters And Hotplates?
    • How To Make A Resin Coaster
    • ArtResin epoxy resin works very well as a coaster protectant; the heat generated from the bottom of a hot mug will not damage the resin surface. However, hotter temperatures such as that produced from a frying pan or casserole dish straight from the oven are typically too hot and could cause irreparable damage to the resin surface so we do not recommend using ArtResin epoxy resin for hot plates. It is recommended for use up to 120F/50C.

  25. Can I use ArtResin on ceramics?

    • Yes, ArtResin epoxy resin will bond to ceramic material. For ceramic tile, simply pour on and spread as usual. For ceramic sculpture, apply with a disposable foam brush in thin coats. For ceramic plateware, simply wait until the ArtResin epoxy resin has fully cured before serving food on it.

  26. Can I use ArtResin on plateware?

    • Yes, once cured, ArtResin epoxy resin is entirely inert meaning it will not leach anything in or out. Keep in mind that ArtResin cannot be exposed to temperatures higher than 120F/50C.

  27. Can I use ArtResin on food to preserve it as a decoration?

  28. Can I use ArtResin on countertops?

    • ArtResin epoxy resin can be used to coat kitchen countertops, but keep in mind that ArtResin was designed as a surface coating for artwork meant to be hung on the wall - it is considered scratch-resistant but not scratch-proof. You may want to add a polyurethane topcoat for an extra layer of protection against everyday wear and tear.  ArtResin epoxy resin is approved as food safe by the FDA.

  29. Can I use ArtResin on flooring?

    • ArtResin epoxy resin is very durable once fully cured but as it was designed as a surface coating for artwork meant to be hung on the wall, it is considered scratch-resistant, not scratch-proof. A polyurethane sealant will help to protect your floor against inevitable wear and tear. It should be noted that ArtResin epoxy resin may be slippery when wet as it is waterproof.

  30. Can I use ArtResin to make pen blanks?

    • Yes, ArtResin epoxy resin will work for relatively small casting projects such as pen blanks.

  31. Can I use ArtResin to coat fishing lures?

    • Using ArtResin Epoxy Resin on a Fishing Lure
    • Yes. ArtResin epoxy resin is very durable and waterproof. Once cured, the resin is inert and therefore does not pose a threat to aquatic life. Although it can be indented with a fingernail in the first few days after curing, it is not typically able to be indented after the first 72 hour window. ArtResin epoxy resin has been shown in third party lab tests to outperform other epoxy resins in terms of non-yellowing longevity, resulting in a realistic-looking lure that will last.

  32. Can I use ArtResin on a guitar body?

    • Yes, you can resin over a guitar. Work in multiple thin layers to avoid dripping. You may want to try hanging the guitar from a wire so that the drips gather at the bottom where you will drill in the strap peg.

  33. What is the difference between ArtResin epoxy resin and varnish?

    • ArtResin Epoxy Resin vs. Varnish
    • ArtResin epoxy resin is much thicker than varnish. ArtResin is poured on like clear honey and spread out, whereas varnish is typically painted or rolled on.
    • ArtResin's cure time is 24 hours until dry to the touch and 72 hours for a full cure. Varnish has a much quicker dry time.
    • ArtResin epoxy resin protects against the damaging effects of UV light, whereas varnishes typically do not.

  34. What is the difference between ArtResin epoxy resin and Mod Podge?

    • ArtResin Epoxy Resin vs. Mod Podge
    • ArtResin epoxy resin is a two part mixture, whereas Mod Podge is one part. ArtResin epoxy resin is poured on like clear honey and spread out, whereas Mod Podge is typically painted on with a brush in several coats. ArtResin epoxy resin is thicker and typically glossier than Mod Podge. Both act as sealants. ArtResin epoxy resin is protected against the aging (i.e. yellowing) effects of the sun by UV and HALS stabilization additives.

  35. What is the best supportive surface to use resin with?

  36. What materials will ArtResin NOT stick to?

    • ArtResin epoxy resin does not adhere well to disposable plastic paint tarps, plastic sandwich/grocery bags, silicone molds, and the non-sticky side of shiny tape. Artists can use these properties to their advantage when creating their pieces (e.g. jewelry made from resin poured in silicone molds). 

  37. Is cured epoxy resin paintable?

  38. How hard is ArtResin once cured?

    • ArtResin epoxy resin is very firm and hard once cured and is heat resistant and scratch resistant.

  39. Will ArtResin shrink?

    • Does ArtResin Shrink?
    • No, shrinkage will not occur with ArtResin epoxy resin. Shrinkage only occurs in products that have solvents, cheap fillers or non-reactive diluents included, which ArtResin epoxy resin does not. 

  40. Will ArtResin crack?

    • Does ArtResin Epoxy Resin Crack?
    • No, cracking does not typically occur. ArtResin epoxy resin is very hard and durable once cured. It has been formulated with a bit of flexibility to it to prevent cracking and brittleness.

  41. Is cured ArtResin waterproof?

    • Yes, ArtResin epoxy resin is a permanent application that seals in whatever it is poured overtop of and protects the work underneath from water.  

  42. What happens if ArtResin freezes?

    • What Happens If ArtResin Freezes?
    • If ArtResin epoxy resin freezes in its liquid state, it should be moved to a warmer place and will return to normal functioning once it reaches room temperature.
    • Once it has cured, however, you want to avoid letting it freeze. This is due to the expansion and contraction that can happen to the substrate, which adds stress to the resin coat and can cause it to crack.

  43. Can ArtResin artwork be hung outside?

  44. Should I seal my work first?

    • Should I Seal my Artwork Before I Resin?

    • In most cases you don't need to use a sealant before applying ArtResin; however, there are some situations when sealing first makes sense:  sealing over paper which may otherwise absorb the resin, sealing over loose materials that may float away in the resin, and sealing over natural objects that may off-gas, such as wood. Use a brush-on or a spray sealant that dries clear and is appropriate for your particular artwork. If in doubt, it never hurts to use a sealant first, but we always recommend doing a test on a scrap piece before you resin your masterpiece. 

  45. Will magazine clippings fade under ArtResin?

    • Usually magazine clippings will typically hold true to their colors—it depends on the quality of ink and paper they're printed on. It helps to paint the surface underneath white, then resin as usual overtop. Clippings should be sealed first before resining. Some magazines pages can become translucent and show the images on the opposite side when resin is applied.

  46. What type of glue should I use to hold paper to a surface prior to using ArtResin?

    • What Type Of Glue Should I Use To Mount Paper To A Surface Before I Resin?
    • There are lots of different types and qualities of glue available - choose one that dries clear and that doesn't contain much water so it doesn't ripple the paper the paper you're using.  A spray adhesive and a glue stick work very well.  To mount your paper evenly and securely, apply the glue of your choice over the entire back of your paper.  Starting with the edge closest to you, line the paper up evenly with the edge of the substrate and roll it back slowly, making sure no air pockets are trapped underneath. Next, take a clean piece of paper and a brayer and roll evenly on top of your piece making sure any air pockets are out the piece is adhered securely.  Allow enough time for the glue to dry thoroughly before you apply ArtResin over top.

  47. Can I apply ArtResin with a paint roller or an air gun?

    • Yes you can use a paint roller to spread ArtResin epoxy resin, however the roller will be unusable afterward. An air gun is not recommended for use with resin because it will clog the passageway as it cures. The easiest way to apply ArtResin epoxy is by dragging the resin across the surface with an ArtResin spreader.