Common Mistakes for Resin Art Beginners
Have you just begun to venture into the world of resin art? An exciting and colourful new hobby for any art enthusiast, the possibilities for artworks you can create using these products are endless. From jewellery pieces, wall art, to everyday homewares like tabletops, coasters and more, we appreciate the individuality that can come out of every DIY task.
Just getting started? We know how overwhelming the world of epoxy can seem at first. From mixing specific products, to preparing your workspace to ensure it’s safe, there are a few common mistakes we see from most beginners.
Here is our run-down of the most common problems you may run into.
The Most Common Resin Art Pitfalls
Has your first project not turned out as you hoped? Here are some of the most common challenges beginner artists run into or forget to check.
Working on an Unlevelled Surface
Have a specific vision in mind? Your products may not be able to layer the way you wanted if your surface isn’t 100% level. As epoxy is applied in liquid form before hardening to a solid compound, a non-level surface will have your epoxy resin running in all sorts of directions.
Proper Product Ratios
Accurate measuring is essential either by volume or weight depending on your product specifications, you can run the risk of your mixture curing with sticky spots normally on the bottom when too much resin is added, or your mixture can cure soft and malleable when too much hardener is added. Is your art still a sticky mess after three or more days of curing? Consider any other liquids you have added to the mixed epoxy.
Mixing Additives into Epoxy
We only recommend using products intended and designed for epoxy resin, a rule of thumb is you shouldn’t exceed more than 10% of any additive (tinters, powders & pastes) to your epoxy mixture. Never add large amounts of harsh liquids such as Acetone, Isopropyl Alcohol or Ketones to epoxy, as this may give different effects to your artwork but it will alter the curing process and degrade the UV, colour and longevity of your finished product. Keep in mind that this doesn’t apply to a couple of drops of products such as Alcohol Inks.
Air Bubbles
Bubbles will form during the mixing and pouring steps, and can cure as is. Make sure to eliminate any bubbles found on your work before setting it aside to cure – so you don’t end up with a shiny finish with pockets of air dotted everywhere.
Dust and Other Foreign Particles
Just like with air pockets, dust, insects and hair will dry right into your masterpiece. Make sure to tweeze out any foreign pieces so you’re not left staring at impurities for the rest of time.
Not Enough Curing Time
Although many resins will feel cured to the touch after one day, most products will not be completely cured for three to seven days. Instead of risking the life and longevity of your piece, we recommend leaving it alone for a little while longer. You’ll thank us.
Getting Started
Mastering epoxy art projects can take a little time, patience and lots and lots of practice. Fortunately, with a basic understanding of how all the blended ingredients work together, and a safe, well-prepped workspace, it doesn’t have to be too challenging.
Want more insight into this art-form before taking the leap? Keep an eye on our blog for more How To guides and basic 101s for beginners. Ready to take the plunge? Check out our extensive range of products to get inspiration on your next DIY task.
