Why Does My Resin Art Bend & Flex?

Why Is Resin Art Bendy or Flexible When Cured

Resin art is becoming increasingly popular as a unique and creative way to make beautiful pieces of artwork. However, one common issue that many artists encounter with their resin pieces is that they can be bendy or flexible when cured. 

This can be frustrating for artists who are looking for a strong and sturdy finished product. So why does this happen? 

The main reason is due to its chemical composition and curing process. Resin is a liquid polymer that hardens through a chemical reaction with a catalyst or hardener. During this process, heat is generated which causes the resin to shrink slightly as it solidifies. This shrinking can create stress on the surface of the piece, causing it to warp or bend. Additionally, the thickness of your resin layer can also play a role in its flexibility. Thinner layers tend to be more flexible compared to thicker layers because they are able to move more freely without breaking apart. This means that if you pour too much resin onto your surface at once, it may lead to bending or cracking as it cures.

There are a few potential reasons for this, including the type of resin used, the curing process, incorrect mixing ratio and even external factors such as temperature and humidity.

Environmental factors such as humidity and temperature can affect the curing process and result in a bendy or soft resin finish. To avoid this issue, it is essential to carefully follow the instructions for your chosen resin brand and ensure that you are working in optimal conditions to achieve a sturdy and rigid final piece.

What Are The Main Reasons For Bendy Resin?

The main culprit behind bendy resin art is the type of resin being used. Many beginners tend to use cheaper, low-quality resins which do not have the same strength and durability as higher quality ones. Unlike quality Australian Made JR Resins. These lower grade resins may also contain more solvents, making them softer and less rigid when cured.

One of the main reasons for bendy resin is improper mixing. When mixing your resin, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and ensure that both parts are thoroughly combined. If there are any unmixed spots or streaks, this can lead to a flexible and bendy final product. 

Another factor that can contribute to bendy resin is using too much hardener. Resin requires a precise ratio of resin to hardener in order for it to properly cure and become solid. If too much hardener is used, the resin may remain soft and pliable. If there is too little hardener, it can remain wet on the bottom, normally in the center of the project. This is due to excess epoxy that will not cross-link in the curing phase.

The curing process also plays a significant role in determining how bendy your resin art will be. Curing time refers to how long it takes for your resin piece to fully harden and cure. Rushing this process by applying heat or using fast-curing resins can lead to weaker bonds within the resin, resulting in a more flexible and bendy end product.

Temperature also plays a role in how well resin cures. If it is too cold, the curing process will be slowed down, resulting in a softer end result. It is recommended to work with epoxy resins at room temperature (around 25°C) for best results. 

Certain types of resins are naturally more flexible than others due to their chemical composition. For example, polyurethane resins are known for their flexibility due to the presence of long chains of molecules called "soft segments." These soft segments allow the resin to bend and stretch without breaking. On the other hand, epoxy resins tend to be more rigid because they contain shorter chains of molecules and have a higher cross-linking density. This makes them better suited for applications that require strength and stability rather than flexibility.

How To Fix The Bend & Flex?

So how can you fix bendy resin? The first step would be identifying what caused the issue - was it incorrect mixing ratios or low temperatures?

Some things to consider:

• Curing time

• Thin pour levels

• Incorrect measurements

• Not Mixed Thoroughly

• Too Much Colour Pigment

If it was due to incorrect mixing ratios, then unfortunately there is not much that can be done. The resin has already cured and the chemical reaction cannot be reversed. However, if low temperatures were the cause, then there are a few things you can try to fix the bend in your resin. It's important to note that these methods may not always completely fix a bend in resin, especially if it was caused by incorrect ratios or poor quality materials.

One option would be to place the resin in a warm environment, such as a heated room or using a heat gun on low setting, to help soften and straighten out the bent areas.

Another method is to apply pressure on the bend while heating it up, for example by placing heavy books on top of the resin piece. This will help reshape and flatten the resin as it becomes more pliable with warmth. 

If these methods do not work, you can also try sanding down the bent areas until they are smooth and even with the rest of your project. However, keep in mind that this may alter the overall appearance of your finished piece. Sanding: In some cases, sanding down the affected area may also help fix a bend in cured resin. Use fine grit sandpaper and gently work on the surface until it becomes even again. 

Epoxy Top Coat: If the above methods do not work, you can try using a clear epoxy resin to coat your bendy piece. This will add extra strength and rigidity to the piece, making it less likely to bend in the future.

Prevention Is Key

Make sure to follow proper mixing instructions and use high-quality resins for best results. While there are ways to attempt fixing a bendy resin piece after curing, prevention is always better than cure when working with this material. Be mindful of temperature conditions and resin mixing ratios to avoid any issues with your resin projects. And remember, practice makes perfect! Keep experimenting and learning from any mistakes along the way. The Just Resin team is here to help.