Common Resin Mistakes for Art Beginners

Have you just begun to venture into the world of ? An exciting and colourful new hobby for any art enthusiast, the possibilities for artworks you can create using these products are endless. From jewellery pieces, wall art, to everyday homewares like tabletops, coasters and more, we appreciate the individuality that can come out of every DIY task.

It's crucial to understand that the curing process relies on a chemical reaction between the resin and hardener. Following directions and mixing thoroughly are essential to ensure proper curing.

Just getting started? We know how overwhelming the world of epoxy can seem at first. From mixing specific products, to preparing your workspace to ensure it’s safe, there are a few common resin mistakes we see from most beginners.

Here is our run-down of the most common problems you may run into.

The Most Common Resin Mistakes & Art Pitfalls Beginners Make

Has your first project not turned out as you hoped? Here are some of the most common resin mistakes and challenges beginner artists run into or forget to check.

Working on an Unlevelled Surface

Have a specific vision in mind? Your products may not be able to layer the way you wanted if your surface isn’t 100% level. Pouring resin onto a level surface ensures complete and even coverage. As epoxy is applied in liquid form before hardening to a solid compound, a non-level surface will have your epoxy resin running in all sorts of directions.

To avoid this problem, ensure your workspace is level before you begin your project. If needed, use a spirit level to check and make any necessary adjustments. This will help your resin to dry evenly and prevent any unwanted pooling or unevenness in your artwork.

Choose The Wrong Epoxy Resin For Your Projects

Not all resins are created equal. Some are better for specific projects than others, and it's essential to know which type of resin you need before starting. Some resin products may not be suitable for casting, while others are designed specifically for coating.

Make sure you do your research and choose the right type of resin for your project.

Not Measuring Proper Product Ratios

Accurate measuring is essential for a proper resin cure, either by volume or weight depending on your product specifications. You can run the risk of your mixture curing with sticky spots, normally on the bottom, when too much resin is added, or your mixture can cure soft and malleable when too much hardener is added.

Is your art still a sticky mess after three or more days of curing? Consider any other liquids you have added to the mixed epoxy.

Not Mixing Resin and Hardener Well Enough

Thoroughly mixing your resin mixture is critical. The most common mistake beginners make is not mixing the resin and hardener long enough, leading to a sticky or tacky surface that never fully cures. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing time and technique thoroughly.

Consider using a timer and mixing until the mixture is clear and streak-free. If you’re using a coloured resin, mix for an additional minute to ensure the colour is fully dispersed.

Mixing Additives into Epoxy

We only recommend using products intended and designed for epoxy resin, a rule of thumb is you shouldn't exceed more than 10% of any additive (tinters, powders & pastes) to your epoxy mixture.

Never add large amounts of harsh liquids such as Acetone, Isopropyl Alcohol or Ketones to epoxy, as this may give different effects to your artwork but it will alter the curing process and degrade the UV, colour and longevity of your finished product.

Keep in mind that this doesn't apply to a couple of drops of products such as Alcohol Inks.

Not Reading The Resin Or Pigment Instructions

Not all resin products are the same, and neither are pigments. Each manufacturer will have specific instructions for their products, including ratios of mixing, curing times and temperatures. Make sure you read and follow these carefully to ensure the best results. 

This also applies to pigments, as some may require different ratios or mixing techniques to achieve the desired effect. 

Air Bubbles

Bubbles will form during the mixing and pouring steps, and can cure as is. Make sure to eliminate any bubbles found on your work before setting it aside to cure – so you don’t end up with a shiny finish with pockets of air dotted everywhere.

It is important to move the torch in a back and forth fashion across the entire surface to prevent over-torching. There are a few methods of removing bubbles, depending on your project.

One way is to use a heat gun or blowtorch to gently heat the surface and pop any bubbles that have formed. Another method is to lightly blow over the surface using a straw or your breath. You can also use a toothpick or small stick to gently stir the surface and release any bubbles.

Wrong Temperature For Working With Epoxy Resin

 Epoxy resins have specific temperature ranges for working and curing, and it's essential to follow these guidelines. Working in temperatures that are too cold can cause the mixture to cure too slowly, while working in temperatures that are too hot can  cause the resin to cure too quickly, leading to a cloudy or uneven finish.

Make sure you work in a temperature-controlled environment to ensure the best results.

Dust and Other Foreign Particles

Just like with air pockets, dust, insects and hair will dry right into your masterpiece. It is crucial to protect the resin as it cures to prevent dust from settling on the surface. Make sure to tweeze out any foreign pieces so you’re not left staring at impurities for the rest of time.

You can also use a clean cloth or compressed air to remove any dust particles before pouring your resin. Make sure to work in a clean and dust-free environment to avoid this issue.

Not Enough Time For Curing Process

Although many resins will feel cured to the touch after one day, most products will not be completely cured for three to seven days. Resin cures over several days, and during this time, issues like stickiness, loss of shine, and air bubbles can occur.

Instead of risking the life and longevity of your piece, we recommend leaving it alone for a little while longer. You’ll thank us.

Letting Resin Sit Too Long After Mixing

Once you’ve mixed your resin and hardener, the clock is ticking. Unmixed resin can lead to sticky patches, improper curing, and a subpar finish for your project. Most products will have a working time of 20-30 minutes, so make sure you’re ready to pour and work with the mixture as soon as it’s combined.

Letting it sit too long can cause it to thicken and become difficult to work with, leading to an uneven finish. If you do need more time, consider using a larger mixing container to spread the mixture out and slow down the curing process.

Moulds Are Too Big or Deep

When working with epoxy resin, it’s important to consider the size and depth of your moulds. Issues with resin surfaces, such as air bubbles and uneven curing, can arise if the moulds are too large or deep.

Make sure you choose moulds that are the appropriate size and shape for your project to ensure the best results.

How To Start Doing Resin Art With Just Resin

Mastering epoxy art projects can take a little time, patience and lots and lots of practice. Fortunately, with a basic understanding of how all the blended ingredients work together, and a safe, well-prepped workspace, it doesn’t have to be too challenging.

Just remember to read and follow all manufacturer instructions, work in a temperature-controlled environment, and take your time when working on your projects. To ensure proper consistency and prevent issues like cloudiness and micro bubbles, warm the resin bottles in a warm water bath before use.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be creating stunning resin art pieces in no time!

Want more insight into this art-form before taking the leap? Keep an eye on our blog for more How To guides and basic 101s for beginners. Ready to take the plunge? Check out our extensive range of products to get inspiration on your next DIY task.