Are you familiar with all the possibilities of working with epoxy resin? Read on to find out more.
Its use has become so widespread in recent years that it is used in all kinds of fields, from aeronautics and electronics to food preservation and decoration. It is one of the most powerful thermosetting polymers on the market and is mainly used as an adhesive due to its strength. However, its versatility is also making it popular for creating three-dimensional artistic figures.
There are many different types of resin, each used for specific tasks: epoxy, polyurethane, acrylic and ultraviolet, to name a few. Today, we will talk specifically about the type most commonly used for handicrafts and small creations: two-component epoxy resin.
It is the most popular option thanks to its transparency, hardness and resistance, and it is suitable for all kinds of applications.
What is required for working with epoxy resin?
The components of this mixture are catalyst A and hardener B. It is vital that these two components are mixed in the precise proportions indicated by the manufacturer. Failure to follow these instructions could result in the mixture not working properly, or never hardening, breaking and losing its shine.
The working of the resin requires different materials:
- Epoxy resin.
- Silicone moulds. These must be non-stick.
- Alcohol and wipes. These will be useful for cleaning up any stains.
- Latex or nitrile gloves.
- Sticks or something else to stir with. Wooden, disposable or silicone options are best so that they can be cleaned easily.
- Plastic or silicone cups. These are needed to make the mixture, divide it and create different things.
- Precision scales. We recommend using these for much more precise measurements, although you can also use measuring cups.
- Any decorations you want, such as pigments, dyes, micas, glitter and sequins.
- Long lighters. Use these to remove bubbles.
Our kits have all the basics you need to get started: 2 jars of resin, measuring cups, sticks and gloves.
Step by step guide
Resin is a highly toxic and flammable material that can cause burns if it comes into prolonged contact with our skin. Therefore, it is very important to protect our skin and clean any stains off quickly.
Guide:
- Protect your workspace with a mat.
- Use Your scales or measuring cups to prepare the mixture in the correct proportions. In the case of Craftelier resin, the proportions are 50:50, making it much easier to calculate. You will need to mix an equal amount of Component A and Component B.
- Once they have been poured into the same glass, mix them together thoroughly.
- It is essential to stir thoroughly in all directions for at least 90 seconds to ensure the components are fully integrated and the necessary chemical reaction occurs.
- You will see that the mixture becomes cloudy and bubbly; this is called 'flocculation'. You may also notice that the mixture's temperature changes slightly. If the resin becomes too hot, gives off vapours or smells strong, it should be discarded immediately.
- Once mixed thoroughly, the mixture will become transparent again. Leave it to stand for a few seconds while you prepare the materials needed for the next step.
- Divide the mixture between several glasses and add your chosen decorative materials. You can either add them directly to the glass with the resin or work in layers. The important thing is that everything you add is well encapsulated.
- Then, pour the mixture into the moulds. It is best to fill the moulds slightly over the recommended level, while maintaining the surface tension to avoid spillage. During the curing process, the resin shrinks slightly, so if the moulds are not filled properly, we may end up with sharp edges and indentations that will need to be worked on again later.
- Use the long burner to apply heat to any bubbles that appear on the surface. Pass the flame over the resin lightly, without applying too much pressure, as resin is flammable and excessive pressure could cause it to catch fire.
- Repeat this process four or five times at five- or ten-minute intervals until no further changes are visible. It is normal for them not to all disappear completely.
- Now it is time to leave it to dry for 16 and 24 hours. This time can vary depending on the ambient temperature. The hotter it is, the shorter the time required.
- After this time, carefully remove the pieces from the mould without pressing them too hard. If they are still slightly flexible, the curing process may not have been completed, which could result in fingerprints or deformation.
- We can finish our pieces by sanding their edges to make them smoother or adding a band, for example.
- Leave the pieces on a flat surface for a few more hours to allow them to harden completely on the inside.
- Ready! Enjoy your creations!
Remember to dispose of cups, sticks, and napkins properly in the bin, and never pour resin down the sink. To clean up, use paper and alcohol, then throw the paper away in the rubbish bin and take it to your nearest cleaning point. This product is toxic and irritating. It is not suitable for children without adult supervision.
If you have any questions about using epoxy resin, check out our YouTube tutorial.
Did you know epoxy resin? If not, just give a go, youāll love it!
Products related to this post
Do you want to unleash your creativity? Do you want to know which products we have mentioned in this post? Here they are:
