In our company, one of the main sources we use to assemble and form our products, is resin. Therefore, here is everything you would need to know about resin all from what it is to every safety precaution measure needed.
What is Resin
If you love arts and crafts, the glossy finish of a surface, the different coloured pigments, or perhaps a clear smooth touch to a masterpiece, then resin is all you need! Resin is made up of two parts (The Epoxy Resin and The Hardener), and when mixed together, it creates this chemical reaction that hardens the mixture into solid plastic when left to dry over a preferred surface, and therefore leaves a clear, lustrous, smooth finish.
Is Resin Safe To Use?
Yes. Resin is extremely safe to use as it is a non-toxic material. However, it is dangerous to breathe in the fumes and we highly recommend purchasing a mask beforehand. Thus, after everything has completely dried and ready to be projected and shown off, resin is completely safe of use and touch.
What Are Some Safety Measures I have To Take Before Using Resin?
- Make sure to have a window nearby as you cannot be trapped with all the fumes in a small place, so have a window open to let it out, and fresh air in
- Wear protective gear (apron or full bodysuit, gloves, masks, goggles if needed, and if you have long hair then make sure to put it up)
- Clean up spills immediately as if you leave it for long periods of time, it will harden
- Try not to touch it as it is very hot
- Have a big surface area to lay down project and materials; don’t overcrowd
- Minimize amount of people in work environment
How To Safely Use Resin (For Beginners)
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- Mix The Epoxy Resin And Hardener Together; measure out equal parts epoxy resin and hardener (1:1 ratio) and mix for about 4-5 minutes
- Add Ons’; if you would like to add things like glitter, colour, gold leaf, pigments etc.., this is where you should begin to do so, remember not to rush and to do it slow for best results
- Make sure mold is dried off and clean with nothing inside them(If not using a mold then make sure the surface you’re putting it on is dried off, whether it is a painting, a picture, wood, etc..)
- Pour Epoxy Resin; try to get it in the mold without overflowing, if there isn’t enough scrape the sides to pour in more, if there are bubbles at the top you can remove them with a blow torch or heat gun (We supply some in our website; feel free to make a purchase)
- Allow to harden inside mold
- When hardened 24 hours later, carefully peel off from mold
In the end, you should have a clear, glossy, hardened, masterpiece of your choice!
Is Resin Affordable?
Yes. Resin is affordable and comes in packages of all sizes. When buying resin, it is important and mandatory to know what project you’re working on to know approximately how much you need as prices vary depending on amount and brand. Some you can also get in kits.
What Can I Do With Resin?
Here are only a few things you can do with resin or apply resin on:
- A finishing shiny layer on a canvas
- Pendants
- Paperweights
- Coasters
- Trays
- Keychains
- Magnets
- The back/side of handles of objects like: cutting boards, mirrors, hairbrushes
- Tables
- Pins/pinbacks
- Marbles
- Mosaic
- Frames
- Paint Acrylic Pours
- Creating Shapes Like Crystals (In Molds)