Fixing Common Issues and Perfecting Your Resin Projects

Resin Craft Troubleshooting

Resin crafting can be incredibly rewarding, but even the most experienced artists encounter occasional setbacks. If it’s bubbles, uneven finishes, or unexpected soft spots, every resin artist should know how to troubleshoot common issues effectively. With resources from Just Resin, including their FAQ page and expert blog posts, you can tackle these challenges head-on and turn resin mistakes into masterpieces.

Bendy or Flexible Resin

Encountering bendy or overly flexible resin is a common issue, often resulting from incorrect mixing ratios or using low-quality products. It’s crucial to ensure accurate measurements and thorough mixing to achieve a rigid, durable finish.

Solution:

• Measure resin and hardener precisely as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.

• Use high-quality resin products, such as those available at Just Resin.

• For added rigidity, consider applying an extra topcoat after sanding the surface.

If the resin is still bendy, it may not be fully cured. Keep the piece in a warm, dry area to allow additional curing time.

Tacky or Soft Spots

After dealing with flexibility issues, another common resin mishap is encountering tacky or soft spots. This often stems from improper mixing or low ambient temperatures during curing.

Solution:

• Scrape away uncured areas and sand down the surface.

• Re-pour a thin layer of properly mixed resin.

• Maintain a temperature between 21°C to 27°C in your workspace to ensure optimal curing conditions.

For more on temperature management, check out Just Resin’s guide on resin pouring.

Bubbles After Cure

After resolving tackiness, the next issue that may arise is bubbles trapped beneath the resin surface. These can disrupt the clarity and finish of your piece.

Solution:

• Sand the surface smooth to eliminate raised bubbles.

• Apply a new topcoat of resin, taking care to mix slowly and use a heat gun to eliminate any air pockets.

To prevent future bubbles, refer to Just Resin’s blog on reducing bubbles.

Fixing Colour Issues

If bubbles weren’t the issue but your resin has uneven or patchy colour distribution, improper pigment mixing could be to blame.

Solution:

• Sand down the discoloured area to smooth the surface.

• Reapply resin, ensuring pigments are thoroughly mixed before pouring.

• Consider using resin-specific pigments for more consistent dispersion and vibrant hues. Check out Inks, Pastes & Powders - Resin Pigments for high-quality pigment options.

Surface Dust or Debris

Once the colour is corrected, you may still notice dust or debris marrying the resin’s surface. Dust contamination is a common issue, especially if pieces aren’t properly covered during curing.

Solution:

• Lightly sand the affected area to remove surface dust.

• Apply a fresh, thin flood coat to restore clarity.

• To prevent future contamination, always cover pieces with a dust-free lid or container while they cure.

Uneven Finish

After dealing with dust, another finishing issue is uneven surfaces. Uneven resin pours can result in ripples, dips, or inconsistent gloss.

Solution:

• Sand the surface to level any high spots.

• Polish the area to restore its shine.

• If needed, apply a final thin coat of resin to achieve a flawless, glass-like finish.

Crystallisation of Resin

If you’re still facing issues, crystallisation can be the underlying problem. This occurs when resin is exposed to cold temperatures, resulting in a grainy or lumpy texture.

Solution:

• Warm resin bottles in a hot water bath before mixing.

• Ensure the resin is fluid and clear before use.

• Maintain a consistent, warm temperature in your workspace during pouring and curing.

For more on preventing crystallisation, see Just Resin’s guide on resin crystallisation.

Overheating and Cracking

Mixing large volumes of resin can generate excessive heat, causing the resin to overheat, crack, or cure unevenly.

Solution:

• Mix smaller batches to reduce heat buildup.

• Allow layers to cool before applying additional resin.

• Keep your workspace well-ventilated and at a stable temperature. Read more in The Process Of Cooling Down Epoxy Resin.

Glitter Settling or Clumping

Glitter can settle or clump during curing, especially when not mixed thoroughly or when using low-quality glitter.

Solution:

• Use resin-specific glitter to prevent settling.

• Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

• Apply in thin layers, allowing each to cure before adding more glitter. Visit Glitter - Shop Glitter For Epoxy Resin Art & Crafts for the best resin-friendly glitter.

Embedding Objects in Resin

Embedding objects like flowers, charms, or photos can lead to air bubbles, discolouration, or poor adhesion.

Solution:

• Ensure all items are fully dried and sealed before embedding.

• Apply a thin sealing layer before the main pour to prevent floating or movement.

• For more insights, read What You Can & Can't Embed In Resin.

Working Time Constraints

Delays in working with resin can lead to premature curing, resulting in a thickened, unusable mixture.

Solution:

• Prepare all materials and workspace before mixing.

• Work quickly and efficiently, adhering to the resin’s working time.

• Avoid mixing large batches if you’re new to resin crafting. Check out Common Resin Mistakes for Art Beginners.

Stay ahead of resin crafting challenges by exploring Just Resin’s FAQ page and blog, where you’ll find in-depth guides, troubleshooting tips, and product recommendations to help you master the art of resin.