How To Use Resin For Beginners: Basic Steps
Interested in making your own show-stopping art?
Epoxy resins have become a popular choice in craft projects lately for good reason. Resin is a fascinating material that allows for the creation of both functional and visually appealing objects, with its glass-like or plastic-like properties making it versatile for various crafts.
The liquid resin gradually hardens to a solid plastic, making it suitable for floors, tables, industrial purposes, and art.
Unlike traditional plastics and glasses, resin products can be easily and affordably made at home.
Developing skills in working with resin can be particularly beneficial when it comes to creating unique gifts for friends or crafting special pieces, especially ones tailored towards children.
In this article, we will guide you through the basics of working with epoxy resin and provide tips for creating your very own resin project.
Although some care needs to be taken when setting up your workspace, a bit of guidance and practice can have you creating your own artwork in no time.
First things first: it’s important to understand that these are chemically-made products, with the potential to emit fumes and irritate the skin. However, as with other common household products, handling your new art supplies isn’t a problem with a few safety precautions.
The first thing you’ll need to do is decide what kind of project you want to make. Resin art can take many forms, from jewellery and coasters to larger pieces like wall art and furniture.
Once you have an idea in mind, you’ll need to gather your materials.
What Epoxy Resin Supplies Do Beginners Need?
Choose the right workspace: Resin can be messy, so it’s important to have a designated workspace that is well-ventilated and easy to clean up. Avoid working in areas with high humidity, as this can affect the curing process.
Epoxy resin and hardener: These are the two main components of epoxy resin. They come in a liquid form and must be mixed together in specific ratios creating a chemical reaction to activate the curing process. These are the two components that make up epoxy resin. They are usually sold together in a kit, and it’s important to use the recommended ratio of resin to hardener for best results. For Australia’s best art resin check out Just Resins range of epoxy resins.
Mixing cups and sticks: These are essential for measuring and mixing your resin. It’s important to use separate cups and sticks for each batch of resin, as any leftover residue can affect the curing process. When mixing resin, ensure you stir thoroughly each mixing cup to avoid any unmixed portions that could affect the final product.
Protective gear: This includes gloves, a respirator mask, and safety glasses. These personal protective equipment will help protect you from any potential fumes or skin irritation.
Moulds: These can be silicone moulds, plastic moulds, or even objects like coasters or frames. Silicone moulds are particularly important as they determine the shape of the finished project and are widely available at craft stores, online retailers like Amazon and Etsy, and even local grocery stores. Make sure your mould is clean and dry before pouring in the resin.
Add-ins: This could be anything from glitter and pigments to dried flowers and shells. These add-ins will give your whole resin piece of art a unique touch. You can also use alcohol ink as a colouring option to create vibrant ribbons and squiggles in your resin projects.
You can also experiment with different techniques, like layering and swirling, to create different effects. It’s a good idea to do some research and watch tutorials before starting your project to get an idea of the techniques you want to try.
Once you have all your materials, it’s time to get started!
Beginners 101: Things to Know Before You Begin A Resin Project
Resin art has gained immense popularity due to its versatility and the stunning results it can produce. The primary material used in most resin crafts and art is synthetic resin, an artificial, more affordable version of natural resin.
Synthetic resin, particularly epoxy resin, requires a hardener to transform into a solid. This chemical reaction creates a hard, durable, and shiny solid, making it ideal for various resin projects.
If you're creating jewellery, coasters, or abstract art pieces, the possibilities are endless with resin.
Resin Versus Epoxy Resin
Resin is the common, colourful coating you see applied to artwork, jewellery, tabletops and more. It’s also known as ‘epoxy resin’, which is a solution of two chemical materials blended together – a resin and a hardener.
The hardening additive allows this to take on a unique, solid form. Casting resin, on the other hand, is typically used to create dimensional objects such as paperweights, moulds, figurines, and jewellery. It is ideal for crystal-clear mould projects and river tables.
It is commonly used in art to create a glossy, glass-like finish, as well as to seal and protect various surfaces. Epoxy resin is also known for its durability and resistance to heat, water, and chemicals.
Product Quality
The quality of the materials you source can be the difference between creating a long-lasting piece of art and something that may discolour and/or deform over time.
It's important to invest in high-quality resin and hardener from a reputable supplier like Just Resin. This will ensure that your final product has a professional finish and will stand the test of time.
When investing in epoxy materials, look for products that support UV protection (especially in Australia) to prevent discolouration due to sun exposure.
Also consider what types of projects you might create before investing in your supplies. Some materials are better for creating a number of layers, while others are better suited to a single coat or castings.
Common Uses
This method has definitely taken off as a trend in art, homewares and jewellery. We love that more people are getting interested in this form of art, then displaying their creations in their homes.
You're likely to see this colourful material used in jewellery (necklaces, pendants and earrings), wall art, homewares (cheese boards, coasters, tumblers) and more.
You can also use resin to seal and protect wooden surfaces like tabletops and countertops.
The possibilities are endless, and it's a great way to add some unique, personal touches to your home decor.
Make sure to do your research and experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you.
Protecting your Clothes, Skin and Workspace
As with any chemical products, we need to point out some of the steps you should take to keep yourself and your workspace safe. (Even organic compounds have the potential to irritate the skin).
When using Epoxy Products there is a potential of irritation to the skin, it can be toxic if ingested, or irritate the airways if you inhale fumes.
We always recommend wearing durable nitrile gloves, and a respiratory mask to be used in a non-well-ventilated area when mixing and using epoxy products. It’s also a good idea to wear old clothes or an apron to protect your clothes from any spills.
Additionally, promptly cleaning up any resin drips is crucial to avoid issues and maintain a safe workspace.
Common Resin Troubleshooting Questions
How To Get Started – Making Your Epoxy Artwork
Once you have sourced the base supplies needed to begin your projects, the process is fairly straightforward:
Prep your workspace.
Mix the products to create the resin mixture according to specific product ratios.
Add tints, pastes, powders, or even objects.
Create your piece of art.
Check for dust or particles.
Let your project cure to the product's recommended time.
Interested in learning more? Check out our coming articles to give you further insight into this stunning, creative world. Let us help you get started today.
Is resin easy for beginners?
Yes and no. The process of mixing and pouring resin is fairly simple, but there are a few things to keep in mind as a beginner.
It's important to follow the product instructions carefully and make sure your workspace is well-ventilated. You may also want to practise on a small project first to get a feel for the material before attempting larger, more complex pieces.
As with any new skill, it takes practice and patience to master the art of resin.
But with the right materials and techniques, anyone can create beautiful resin artwork.
Which resin is best for beginners?
Choosing a resin can be overwhelming for beginners, as there are many different types and brands available.
However, the best resin for beginners is typically a low-viscosity (thin) epoxy resin. Beginners should use epoxy resin because it is versatile and suitable for various art and craft projects. These resins are easier to mix and pour, making them less likely to create bubbles or uneven surfaces.
They also have a longer working and cure time between, allowing beginners more time to work on their project before the resin starts to cure. Just Resin recommends the Art Resin kit both for value and ease of use.
Consider using a beginners resin starter kit, which will better guide you through your first resin art project.
Is it hard to learn resin art?
Learning any new art form takes time and practice, but resin art is not necessarily difficult to learn. With the right materials, techniques, and guidance, anyone can create beautiful resin artwork.
It's important to do your research and understand the basics of resin mixing and pouring before attempting more complex projects. It's also helpful to experiment with different techniques and materials to find what works best for you.
With patience and determination, you can become a skilled resin artist in no time.
Is resin an expensive hobby?
Resin can be an expensive hobby, as the materials needed to create artwork can add up quickly. However, there are ways to save money and make resin art more affordable.
For example, purchasing materials in bulk or using alternative items for mixing and pouring can help cut costs. It's also important to consider the value of your finished artwork and the joy it brings you.
Many artists find that the cost of resin is worth the investment for the beautiful pieces they create.
What materials do you need for resin art?
The materials needed for resin art can vary depending on your project, but some essential supplies include:
- Epoxy resin and hardener
- Mixing cups and stir sticks
- Protective gloves and apron
- Pigments, pastes, or powders for colour
- A level surface to work on
- A heat gun or torch for removing bubbles
- A mould or surface to pour the resin onto
- Optional: glitter, dried flowers, or other decorative items.
It's important to read the product instructions carefully and make sure you have all the necessary materials before starting your resin art project.
Top 5 Common Resin Beginner Mistakes
As a beginner, it’s common to make mistakes when working with resin. Here are some of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:
Not measuring correctly: Measuring resin and hardener is crucial for a successful project. Make sure to use the correct ratio as stated in the instructions and measure accurately using a scale or measuring cups.
Not mixing thoroughly: Properly mixing the resin and hardener is important for the chemical reaction to occur and the resin to cure properly. Make sure to mix thoroughly, scraping the sides and bottom of the container, to avoid any unmixed resin.
Pouring too quickly: Pouring resin too quickly can create air bubbles, which can ruin the final result. Take your time and pour slowly, using a stir stick or toothpick to help move the resin around. You can also use a heat gun or torch to remove any bubbles that do appear.
Using the wrong type of resin: As mentioned before, using a beginner-friendly resin is important for a smooth and successful project. Make sure to research and choose a resin that is suitable for your project. For example, some resins are better for coating surfaces while others are better for creating thick layers or casting.
Not preparing the surface properly: Before pouring resin onto any surface, make sure it is clean, dry, and free of dust or debris. This will ensure a smooth and professional finish.
Dealing with excess resin: To avoid overfilling moulds, use a mixing stick to guide the resin into the mould and gently scrape away any excess resin. For small moulds, a stirring stick can help remove excess resin, and for flat areas, you can peel it off after curing.
Resin Art Problems Most Starting Out Face
While making resin art can be a fun and rewarding hobby, it’s not uncommon to encounter some problems along the way.
Here are some common issues that may arise and how to solve them:
Bubbles: Bubbles are a common problem in resin art, but they can be easily solved by using a heat gun or torch to remove them. Simply pass the heat gun over the surface of the resin, being careful not to hold it too close to remove bubbles, or for too long in one spot. The heat will cause the bubbles to rise and pop, leaving a smooth surface.
Sticky or tacky resin: If your resin is still sticky or tacky after the recommended curing time, it may be due to incorrect measurements or not mixing clear resin thoroughly. Make sure to measure accurately and mix thoroughly to avoid this issue.
Resin not curing: If your resin is not curing, it may be due to incorrect measurements, mixing, or using the wrong type of resin. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and use a beginner-friendly resin for best results.
Uneven surface or lumps: This may occur if the surface was not level when pouring the resin. To avoid this, make sure to work on a level surface and use a level to ensure it is even.
Resin not sticking to surface: This may happen if the surface was not prepared properly. Make sure to clean and dry the surface, and if necessary, lightly sand it to create a rough surface for the resin to adhere to.
Resin running off the edges: This can happen if the surface is not level or if too much resin is poured. To avoid this, make sure to work on a level surface and pour the resin in stages, allowing a thin layer of it to spread evenly.
Pour resin: When you pour resin, ensure you do it slowly and steadily to avoid creating bubbles and uneven surfaces. Pouring resin over items like cutting boards, spoons, boards, canvas, and coasters can create a beautiful, painting-like result. Always work on a level surface and use a spreader to help the resin flow evenly.
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