FAQ 4 - Experimenting

Experimenting

  1. How do I apply epoxy resin to 3D surfaces?

    • Applying ArtResin Epoxy Resin to 3D Surfaces
    • How To ArtResin Driftwood
    • ArtResin epoxy resin has the viscosity of honey, so you can brush it on with a disposable foam brush. Repeat until everything is covered to your desired thickness. You may need to work in layers. If you are resining a cube, you can work in stages by coating one face of the cube at a time (i.e. resining the top flat panel of the cube, waiting for it to cure, then flipping the cube around so that a new face becomes the top flat panel, ready to be resined).
  2. How thick can I apply ArtResin?

    • How Thick Can I Apply ArtResin Epoxy Resin?
    • ArtResin was designed as a surface coating for artwork and formulated to be poured in thin applications. It naturally self-levels to 1/8". You can apply ArtResin as thick as you want, as long as you pour in multiple 1/8" coats.
    • You have two choices when pouring multiple layers:
      the first is to pour your initial layer, torch out the bubbles, cover and wait 3-5 hours until the ArtResin reaches a jelly like stage. At this point, you can pour on the next 1/8" layer, torch out bubbles, cover, wait 3-5 hrs and repeat until you reach the height you desire. This method is especially handy when pouring into a mold or a dam.
    • The second option is to allow the first layer to fully dry, then give the piece an overall light sanding and pour on the next 1/8" layer. Torch out bubbles, cover and let this layer dry.  Repeat these steps as many times as you'd like. 
    • Preparing A Resin Dam With Metal Tape
    • Can I Pour A Thick Layer Of Resin On My Artwork?
    • Keep in mind that our recommendation of a 72hr cure time is based on a 1/8" layer. The thicker your layers are, the longer the cure time will be. It could take up to 10 days for a full cure, depending on how many layers you've poured.
  3. Can I get a textured surface with resin?

    • Can I Get A Textured Surface with ArtResin?
    • Yes, a textured surface not only looks great but can cover up imperfections in your piece.
    • If your work is textured to begin with, apply ArtResin with a foam brush, in and out of the areas of relief, to provide an even layer of resin.
    • If you have a flat surface, you can create texture in the resin by using a ragging technique with a gloved hand or a rag to create a perfectly imperfect finish.
    • You can also apply two coats of resin to achieve a textured surface. Apply the first coat as usual and use a rag to apply the second one. 
  4. Can I use epoxy resin on walls?

    • Yes, you can resin walls. Be aware that ArtResin has the consistency of honey, so will travel down the wall with gravity before it cures. Keep in mind the 45 minute working time before starting any large project.
  5. Can I drill into epoxy resin after it cures?

    • Can I Drill Into ArtResin After It Cures?
    • Yes, if you use caution. Wear a respirator to avoid breathing in drilled cured resin particles. Start with a small hole first, drilled with a tiny drill bit. Work your way up from there to avoid the risk of the resin cracking. Do not drill close to the edge.
  6. Can I Pour Multiple Layers With ArtResin?

  7. How do I create cells and lacing in my epoxy resin flow art?

    • Create cells and lacing in flow art by pouring different colors of resin alongside one another. While the piece is still wet, use a heat gun or hair dryer to gently push the resin around to create cells, lacing and other cool effects.
  8. How can I resin both sides ( front and back ) of an object?

    • Resin each side separately, allowing the first side to fully cure before moving onto the second side. Then use a hand sander on the edges and smooth them out. Brush on thin coats of resin over the edges.
  9. How can I use epoxy resin over a curved surface?

    • Can I Resin Over A Curved Surface?
    • Usually it is important to make sure the piece you're resining is level, but in the case of a curved surface, simply brush on multiple thin layers of ArtResin epoxy resin with a foam brush or apply with gloved hands.
  10. What will happen if I do not spread ArtResin once it's poured?

    • Is ArtResin Epoxy Resin Self-Leveling?
    • ArtResin is self-leveling, so it will spread itself out to approximately 1/8" without anyone touching it. Most people, however, use a flat object to spread ArtResin exactly where you want it to go ( our reusable spreaders are the perfect thing to spread ArtResin evenly and efficiently! ) You'll have about 45 minutes to spread ArtResin before it starts to cure and gets too thick to work with.
    • You can also use a disposable foam brush if you only want to apply the resin to specific areas of your piece: this technique is known as Selective Embellishment and you can learn more about it in our blog How Can I Selectively Embellish My Artwork With Epoxy Resin? 
  11. Can I use epoxy resin as a glue?

    • Can I Use ArtResin As A Glue?
    • Yes, epoxy resin can be used as a glue. In fact, it may be the strongest glue you will ever use! Mix and stir as usual, and apply as necessary with a brush or foam brush.
  12. Should I immerse the ArtResin in a water bath before mixing?

    • Should I Warm My Epoxy Resin In A Water Bath?
    • What Is The Perfect Temperature For Working With Epoxy Resin?
    • Yes, if your ArtResin is colder than room temperature, we recommend using a water bath to warm your resin because epoxy resin is generally easier to work with and has far less bubbles when it's warm. Immersing the tightly capped bottles in a warm ( not boiling ) water bath for 10-15 minutes will help to mitigate this issue. Be advised that warming will decrease the 45 minute working time by about 10 minutes so time yourself accordingly. Be cautious not to get any water into the mixture - even a single drop can cause your resin to cure cloudy.