General Usage
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Is ArtResin safe to use?
What Makes ArtResin Safe To Use?
Yes. ArtResin is a low-odor epoxy resin designed with safety in mind.
It has been reviewed by a certified toxicologist and meets ASTM D4236 standards. This means it's considered safe for use at home when used as directed.
Unlike some epoxy resins, ArtResin contains no solvents or VOCs, and does not release harmful fumes during use. It's also non-flammable in its liquid form.You may notice a mild odor while working with it. That's normal for epoxy resin, but it's much less noticeable than many other resins.
We always recommend wearing gloves and working in a well-ventilated area where air can move freely, like near an open door, window, vent or fan.
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Is ArtResin food safe?
ArtResin Passes Food Safety Tests
Yes, when measured and mixed according to the label directions and allowed to fully cure, ArtResin is safe for use as a food contact surface.ArtResin has been independently tested to international standards for leaching and migration and passed all required safety tests. Simply put, when used as directed and fully cured, ArtResin will not transfer anything 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 meets ASTM D-4236 standards and has been evaluated as non-toxic and safe for home use when used as directed.Like any epoxy resin, a few simple habits will help keep your experience comfortable and safe:
- Wear gloves to protect your skin from a sticky mess and potential irritation. If resin gets on your skin, wash it off right away with soap and water.
- Avoid eye contact. If resin gets in your eyes, rinse immediately with water (don't rub) and seek medical attention right away.
- Work in a well-ventilated space that allows air to circulate, either through an open door, window, vent, or fan. If ventilation is limited, a respirator is recommended.
For detailed health information, please see ArtResin's Safety Data Sheet. -
How much resin do I need?
No matter the shape — square, rectangular, or round — you can figure it out easily using our Resin Calculator.
Just enter your project dimensions, and it will tell you exactly how much resin to mix so you don't waste material or come up short.
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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 a temperature between 75-85°F (24-30°C). This helps the resin flow smoothly and cure properly.
Keep humidity ideally at 50%, or below 80%.
It's important to keep conditions steady during the first 24 hours to ensure a smooth finish and proper cure. -
How do I prepare and apply resin correctly?
How To Measure and Mix Resin And Hardener
How To Pour and Spread Epoxy Resin- Measure Accurately: Measure equal amounts of resin and hardener by volume (not weight). Getting the ratio right is key for a proper cure.
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir slowly for at least 3 minutes. Scrape the sides and bottom of the mixing container as you go. This ensures everything is fully combined and prevents sticky spots.
- Pour & Spread: 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. Try not to scrape the sides of the container when pouring.
- Remove Bubbles: Don’t worry if you see bubbles after pouring. They're easy to remove with an Artist's Torch.
- Resin the Sides (if you want to): Use a gloved hand or foam brush to gently spread the resin over the sides. If you prefer clean sides, gently guide the resin to the edge and let it dome naturally without spilling over.
Follow these steps for a flawless resin finish! - Measure Accurately: Measure equal amounts of resin and hardener by volume (not weight). Getting the ratio right is key for a proper cure.
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How thick can I apply ArtResin?
How To Get A Thick Layer Of Resin
ArtResin was designed to be poured in thin layers. It naturally self-levels to about 1/8" (3 mm).
If you want more depth, you can absolutely build it up. Just do it in multiple thin layers rather than one thick pour.
There are two easy ways to do this:1. Gel Stage Method:
- Pour your first 1/8" layer.
- Remove bubbles with a torch.
- Cover and let it sit 3-5 hours until it 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. Fully Cured Layer Method:
- Let the first layer to dry completely.
- Lightly sand the surface (wear a dust mask) and remove all dust.
- Pour the next 1/8" layer, remove bubbles, cover, and let it dry.
- Repeat these steps as needed to achieve the desired thickness.
Both methods work. It just depends on how quickly you want to build your piece.
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What's the working time of ArtResin?
What Is The Working Time Of ArtResin?
Once mixed, ArtResin has a working time of about 45 minutes. After that, it will start to thicken and becomes more difficult to spread.
For best results, pour the resin right after mixing for 3 minutes.
A Quick Note on Temperature:
Warm temperatures will speed things up. If you warm the resin in a water bath, your working time will be a little shorter — about 10 minutes less.Higher temperatures can also speed up the curing process, so it's best to work in temperatures between 75°-85°F (24°-30°C) for the most predictable results.
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What's the best way to remove bubbles from epoxy resin?
Tips To Prevent Resin Bubbles
Why Use A Torch With Resin?
The easiest way to remove bubbles from epoxy resin is with a flame torch.A butane Artist's Torch or a propane torch gently warms the resin surface, helping bubbles rise and pop quickly.
Heat guns can also work, especially with silicone molds; but it's less precise and tends to blow wet resin around if you're not careful.Always use a light, quick pass and don't hover in one spot. Use caution with any torch or heat gun.
Additional tips to prevent bubbles:
- Seal porous surfaces like wood or paper so they don't release air into the resin.
- Make sure your resin is at room temperature or slightly warmer.
- Stir slowly instead of whipping the resin.
- Pour slowly and close to the surface.
- Work in 1/8" (3 mm) layers so bubbles can escape more easily.
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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 after about 24 hours and fully cured in 72 hours.
For the best results, let it cure in a dry, room-temperature environment for a smooth, professional finish. -
How can I protect wet resin from dust as it cures?
Tips To Keep Dust Out Of Your Resined Artwork.
Have a dust cover ready before you start to resin. A clean plastic tote or a large cardboard box (with the flaps cut off) works well. That way, you can cover your piece right after you finish pouring.If you're working in a dusty space like a garage, mist the air with water in 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 Work With Epoxy Resin?
ArtResin works beautifully with most art & craft materials. It bonds well to wood, photographs, inkjet prints, fully dried acrylic, oil, and watercolor paintings, spray paint, ink, oil pastel, paper collage, metal, glass, sculptures, flowers, rocks, and other found objects.
Some materials don't work well with resin, including wax, oil, and plastics, and silicone since they repel the resin and prevent it from adhering properly —This is also why plastic and silicone tools are perfect for working with resin!Keep in mind that loose materials like glitter and chalk pastels may float in liquid resin. Soft or porous materials like paper can absorb resin so it's best to seal them first with a suitable sealer.
When trying a new material, a small test piece is always a good idea. Part of the fun of working with resin is experimenting and discovering new possibilities! -
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.
That said, sealing can help in a few situations.Sealing is a good idea for paper and other porous materials that could absorb resin, loose materials that might float, or natural objects like wood that can release air bubbles.
Choose a clear-drying brush-on or spray sealant that's suitable for your artwork.
If you're working with a new material, it's always smart to test first on a scrap piece. A quick test can help you avoid surprises and see exactly how your materials will react before you commit. -
What is ArtResin's heat resistance?
What Is ArtResin's Heat Resistance?
Once fully cured, ArtResin can handle temperatures up to 120°F (50°C). At this point, it may soften slightly, but will return to normal once it cools.Everyday heat, like a hot cup of coffee on a coaster, won’t damage the resin surface.
But higher heat can cause problems. Anything above 120°F (50°C), like a hot dish straight from the oven or a piece left in a hot car, can permanently damage the resin finish. For best results, keep cured pieces away from high heat sources.
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Can I apply a second coat or multiple coats?
Sanding Epoxy Between Coats
Yes, you can apply a second coat of ArtResin if you need to remove bubbles, hair or dust or if you simply like the look of a thicker coat.To repair imperfections, first sand out the problem area, then lightly sand the entire surface so the next layer can bond properly. Apply the fresh coat of resin just like the first. Don't worry — the scuff marks will disappear under the fresh layer.
You can also build up multiple layers of resin to cover raised areas, fill molds, or for a thicker coat. For best results, keep each pour around 1/8" (3 mm) thick to help avoid trapped bubbles. Repeat in layers until you reach your desired thickness.
There are two easy ways to layer:- You can pour a first layer, remove bubbles, cover it, and let it reach the gel stage (about 3-5 hours). Then pour the next layer and repeat as needed.
- Or, let the first layer fully cure. Once it's dry, lightly sand it (wearing a dust mask), clean off the dust, and pour your next layer. Remove bubbles, cover, and let it cure again. Repeat as needed.
- You can pour a first layer, remove bubbles, cover it, and let it reach the gel stage (about 3-5 hours). Then pour the next layer and repeat as needed.
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Can ArtResin be used on outdoor projects?
Can Resin Art Be Hung Outside?
ArtResin is made with advanced UV and Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers to protect the finish and slow down degradation, including yellowing caused by UV light exposure.That said, deliberately exposing it to UV light is not recommended.
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Can I use ArtResin on countertops and floors?
ArtResin epoxy resin is strong, durable and food safe once fully cured, but it's designed primarily as a coating for artwork and creative — not heavy use surfaces.
It's scratch-resistant, it’s not scratch-proof, so high traffic areas like countertops and floors can show wear over time.
For those type of projects, our Industrial Clear epoxy resin is a better fit. It's formulated specifically for tougher situations like counters and floors.
One thing to keep in mind: like most resin surfaces, epoxy can become slippery when wet. -
What is the shelf life of ArtResin?
Does Epoxy Resin Expire?
What Can You Do With Yellowed Hardener?
ArtResin stays fresh for about 1 year unopened, or around 6 months once opened, from the date of manufacture. You'll find the manufacture date on the label.Over time the hardener may start to yellow in the bottle due to natural oxidation. This only affects the liquid hardener - not the cured resin. It's much like how an apple browns when exposed to air.
Oxidation is not the same as UV yellowing, which happens to cured resin exposed to direct light.
Yellowed hardener looks worse in the bottle and once you mix the hardener with the resin (which remains clear), the yellowing will dilute significantly.
The yellowed hardener will still cure as expected. It may not be ideal for white or very light-colored artwork, but it still works well for darker pieces, wood, or when using tints.
General Usage