5 Mistakes to AVOID as a beginner in Resin Art!
Let's get started with the primary question - what is resin art?
Resin art refers to all the things that can be made using resin including jewelry, paintings, coasters, trays, etc. Art made using resin is generally glossy and resembles glass.
To make resin art, there are two types of resins Casting resin and Coating or Laminating resin. Casting resin is commonly known as Epoxy resin.Epoxy resin is created by an exothermic reaction when two components, resin and hardener, are mixed in a ratio of 1 part resin and 1 part hardener (1:1), 2:1 etc.,.It depends on the configurations mentioned by the manufacturer on the resin bottle label.
Now that you know what resin art is, let's look at the 5 most important mistakes from my experience to avoid as a beginner.
- Inaccurate proportion of Epoxy Resin vs Hardener
Some resins are measured by weight while some are measured by volume. So, knowing what type of epoxy resin are you using can save you from unnecessary wastage. An accurate measurement is another factor that will decide the fate of your resin project. The measurement matters more in small projects like making resin jewellery. An ounce here or there can make a big difference.
This is the resin I use. Highly rated on amazon. The proportion is 1:1 for this resin brand.
Link to the below Resin & Hardener pair - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08V5N83Z7/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- Not mixing resin and hardener mixture properly
This is one of the most common mistake people make when working with resin. When you mix the resin and hardener in the disposable cup make sure to scrape the sides and the bottom of the cup too.If not, it will result in an uncured resin.
- Not Working in a Ventilated Area
It is strongly recommended to do any resin work in a ventilated area. Resin is a chemical. It emits fumes while mixing, pouring and for the next 24 hours, even after you have poured resin. You may not see the fumes, but inhaling fumes can have health hazards. Ensure that your workspace is well ventilated and that you have all of your resin containers, resin, some paper towels, mixing instruments, and that you’ve laid down a tarp or other protective coverings over the surfaces you don’t want your resin getting on to.
- Not Wearing Proper Respiratory Gears When Working With Resin
If you think the DIY resin project you are doing is small, so it is okay to not wear your safety gears, like a mask and gloves, you are highly mistaken. Remember, resin is a chemical. It emits harmful fumes and has a pungent smell. Avoiding wearing your safety gears can be damaging. Be careful when working with resin, however small the project you are working on is. I use an affordable highly rated respiratory cover mask from Amazon. This safety mask face cover for dust adopts double filtration system that can effectively obstruct 90% of organic vapor / gas, smoke, pollen, dust and other particles in the air. It is the ideal respiratory protective device for your life and work.
Link to the above mask - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08Z9YGNMZ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- The Air bubbles
Once the resin has been poured onto the mold surface, there will be air bubbles popping up after couple min. Nobody wants resin jewelry / home decor piece with air holes in it. They have to be removed and there are so many ways to pop the bubble!
- Use a hot air gun to break the surface tension and burst the bubbles. This should be done as soon as possible after pouring.
- Use a propane torch to burst the bubbles. Use the same motion as the hot air gun and be careful not to move the flame too vigorously. This highly rated torch is on Amazon and it's very compact to hold and use. Link to the below torch - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07L8YPYQK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- Use a fine mist spray of denatured alcohol (methylated spirits) over the surface.
Link to the above isopropyl alcohol - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08L6YZS6Q/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&psc=1 - Swirl the bubble onto the toothpick and quickly wipe it off on a paper towel.
In my experience, the propane torch and toothpick have worked best to get rid of air bubbles. Isopropyl alcohol gives a very cloudy appearance to the resin after its sprayed on. Spoils the work that has been done.
Now, get on with resin art and create some amazing DIY stuff! :)
