what do you need to make epoxy resin?

Do you want to make your own epoxy resin? It’s easier than you think! In this blog post, we will discuss the materials that you need to get started.

We will also talk about the different types of epoxy resin, and how to choose the right one for your project. Let’s get started!

What do you need to make resin?

Resin is a relatively easy material to use, but it is also important that you have all the right materials at hand.

Epoxy resin can be processed very well with the help of the following items:

– gloves, disposable or household gloves that you only use when processing resin (the resin will not come off the plastic)

– a mixing cup/container in which to mix the components A and B of the epoxy resin. Do not use metal containers because metals can react with the chemicals in epoxy resins.

Use a glass or porcelain bowl for example, or other non-reactive material such as wood, rubber, silicone, and some types of plastic.

You even have special mixing cups available made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

The material is hard enough to resist scratching from stirring devices but flexible enough to be squeezed out of tight corners once it has cured.

These are usually sold together with special mixing sticks that are strong enough to crush the hardening components, but flexible enough for easy cleaning and removal.

– a stirrer (such as a wooden stick), with which you can mix the two parts of the epoxy resin well together.

It is best to use disposable wooden stirring spoons or spatulas because it is not possible to remove all residual resin from these after processing.

In addition, it is wise to only use items that do not react with chemicals in any case.

Do this until there are no more lumps visible and you have achieved an even mixture of both components A and B. 

You should never use steel or metal utensils when working with resins; they will corrode over time due to the reaction with the chemicals in resins.

– a mold for your resin projects, such as silicone molds or siliconized paper or cardboard forms.

As mentioned earlier, you should never use metal containers to work with epoxy resin because they can react with it and cause unwanted chemical reactions. 

Silicone molds are available in many different sizes and shapes; you can use them over and over again until they wear out due to the aging of the material (in which case they become brittle).

You also have siliconized paper available that is heat resistant up to 240C degrees and will therefore not stick when working at high temperatures (such as when making jewelry).

These products are usually coated on both sides so that no additional preparation is required and you can easily remove the finished product.

– heat guns or hair dryers to evaporate any air bubbles that may have arisen during the mixing process.

These bubbles can form because of the chemical reaction between the two components A and B when they are mixed together, but also by pouring resin too quickly into a mold or onto other objects (causing air pockets in between).

You will see these tiny bubbles appear on the surface as soon as you start mixing; once your work is fully cured, they stay visible in your final project and make it look less attractive.

To prevent this from happening, use a hairdryer during processing to blow away all these unwanted bubbles before it starts curing completely!

Do I need a heat gun for resin?

No, you don’t need a heat gun for resin. However, if you’re working with a large batch or want to speed up the curing process, using a heat gun can be helpful.

Just make sure to keep the gun moving and avoid getting too close to the resin, or you could end up bubbling or scorching.

What materials do you need for resin art?

  • Epoxy resin
  • Silicone mat or plastic sheeting (to use as a work surface)
  • Oil-based paint and brush to create the background. The best oil paints to use with epoxy are acrylics, oils, enamels, and watercolors which have no water in them.
  • A palette knife for mixing up your resin if you’re using it in small batches (not pictured). You can also mix larger quantities by hand but this is messy – so gloves etc are recommended!
  • A disposable cup or bowl to mix your resin (not pictured). You can also use an old tin from something like tomato paste instead of having one just for resin mixing.
  • Something with which you’ll stir the epoxy – either a wooden stick, spoon, etc (not pictured) or if using larger quantities then you might want to invest in some kind of electric mixer attachment like these ones on Amazon.
  • Acrylic paint and brush to create any details. The best acrylic paints are water-based as they have less risk of reacting badly when mixed together with epoxy!
  • If possible choose colors that don’t contain metallic pigments since those tend not to be compatible.

How do beginners use resin?

To make resin, you will need a hardener and a resin. You can either buy them separately or in a kit.

The most important thing is to read the instructions carefully and mix the two substances properly.

If you don’t mix them correctly, the resin could end up being too brittle or too weak.

Once you have mixed the resin and hardener together, you can start using them.

Be careful not to get it on your skin or clothes, as it can be difficult to remove.

Always work in a well-ventilated area, and avoid breathing in the fumes.

How do you make resin molds for beginners?

To make resin molds for beginners, you will need to gather the following supplies:

– Resin (of course)

– Hardener

Mold release agent

– A disposable container in which to mix the resin and hardener

– Something to stir the mixture with (a popsicle stick or wood dowel will work)

– Gloves

– Safety goggles

Do you need a UV light for resin?

Epoxy resin is often used as a sealant or adhesive, and it can be cured with either heat or UV light.

If you’re using an epoxy resin that doesn’t require UV light to cure, then you don’t need to worry about having one of these lights on hand.

However, if your resin does need UV light to harden, then you’ll need to have a way to provide this type of curing.

Some people use special lamps designed specifically for this purpose, while others simply use a powerful flashlight.

Just be sure that the light is strong enough to penetrate the surface of the resin and cure it completely.

Photo of author

Martin Flood

Martin Flood has been working in the construction industry for over 20 years as a general contractor with expertise in remodeling projects that are large or small. He has furthered his career by specializing in epoxy resin flooring, providing excellent service to both commercial and residential clients. Martin’s experience enables him to offer professional advice on how to choose the right type of project based on your needs and budget.

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