Epoxy/Resin is a liquid organic compound. At the time of purchase, resin often comes in two separate parts that must be mixed together to form the final usable product. These separate parts are the resin and the hardener. Mixing them together creates a reaction in the particles that allows the final product to harden and cure.
When working with epoxy/resin, several questions might surface! Listed are some questions I had when I first started working with epoxy/resin and a few tips I can offer when working with the unmixed components and final product.
- Q: How much of each component do I mix together to produce the final usable product?
- A: The best advice is to read the label for the particular brand of product which you have purchased. I tend to use brands that require a 1:1 ratio of resin to hardener.
- Q: Is this product food safe?
- A: Again – the best advice is to read the label for the particular brand of product which you have purchased. They will usually tell you in the product description if their brand is food safe. This is important when working with projects that come in contact with food and beverages.
- Q: Are these chemicals hazardous or harmful to my skin? How does it smell?
- A: The resin and hardener can be harmful in direct contact with your skin. It is HIGHLY recommended that you use PPE including gloves as well as a mask to protect your skin and your respiratory system respectively. Some people have allergies to some of the chemicals. Therefore direct physical contact can irritate your skin – and inhaling the components and/or final product can also cause irritation once inhaled. You might find that some brands have a stronger smell than others. It is highly recommended that you mask up and work in a very well ventilated area.
- Q: At what temperature should I keep my work space?
- A: Once again – I encourage you to read the label for the particular brand which you have purchased. The “working time” for the liquid form once the components are mixed varies depending on your brand. If you mix the resin too soon before you are ready to use it, the product will harden and become unusable. Please be sure to read all labels and use a small sample on a test product before you start working with your final project(s).
- Q: How much should I use?
- A: the amount you will use will vary by project. There are several guides available on the internet. Depending on the products “working time’, you can always mix more if you find that you initially did not mix enough to complete your project. Any excess leftover will become unusable as it is designed to harden once the components are mixed together. I encourage having small molds available so that no product goes to waste!
There are SOOO many gems to share when using resin. I am sure I will have more to share in the future. These are just a few basic tips for beginners. The bottom line is read, read and re-read your products labels and descriptions before you purchase and use your product. Good luck!
- Your Favorite Craft Artisan, Janna