Top 5 Resin Art Tips
Here are my top 5 MOST helpful and simple tips when working with resin.
Tip #1 - Preparation
For the BEST consistency, uniform curing and fastest curing times. Having the right equipment and materials is a must. Moisture and ambient temperature also play an important role in the resin casting process. At a minimum a scale, mixing cups (the curing process generates heat so use a cup that can handle moderate heat.) wooden mixing sticks, molds and gloves are all one needs to get started with resin.
Tip #2 - Bubbles
An unfortunate side effect of the chemical reaction between the resin base material and the hardener once mixed, are bubbles. They could be tiny to large and the key to fixing these imperfections is a heat source. We use a high temperature heat gun for this.
As soon as the resin is thoroughly mixed, we poor it into the mold. After the poor, let it settle for 30 seconds or so and lightly pass the heat gun over the surface of the casting until it starts to solidify. It is very important that we don’t rush this step. The nozzle of the heat gun should be 2 inches above the surface. To close and you will damage the casting. Always remember to keep the heat source moving and not to stay in one spot for more then a few seconds at a time.
Tip #3 - Warning
Resin crafting is very messy. It is sticky, hard to clean up and your work area, if unprotected will get ruined quite quickly. Starting off as a small drip, it can turn into a sticky nightmare if some basic steps are skipped.
Cover your table with a disposable wax sheet. we tape ours down. Have plenty of gloves and a trash can near by for easy access and this will limit the mess. Getting a liquid solvent from the local hardware store. like mineral spirits or Acetone. (refer to the resin product you use for the correct thinning agent.) Incorporating these basic steps will drastically reduce clean up time and make the resin life a bit less sticky.
Tip #4 - Alternate Pigments
Make-up products make for some great looking results. My favorite black pigment is eye shadow. Mix your pigments in after you mix the resin base and hardener. A little goes a long way here.
Tip #5 - Polishing
The best part of resin is the ultra durable and glossy properties this material has. For that showroom finish basic sanding skills and a little bit of time is all that is needed. Once the casting has fully cured, the wet sanding can begin. Grab these wet/dry sandpapers 320, 600, 1000, 2000, use a bucket of water with a few drops of dish soap. After you finish the 2000 grit paper, then we move into the liquid polishes. Take your time here and make sure to look from every angle to make sure your ready for the next step.
