How To Use Acrylic Resin

An Introduction To Acrylic Resin

Acrylic resin is a versatile and popular material in the art and design world. Acrylic resins have many names and are commonly referred to as Eco Resin, Gypsum Resin or Jesmonite. One of the main uses of acrylic resin is in casting and moulding projects. It is made from a combination of acrylic liquid and mineral powder, making it a water-based product that is non-toxic and safe to use.

Acrylic resin, also referred to as eco resin, is a multi-functional and eco-friendly substance that has gained popularity in recent years. Its composition includes a mineral powder base, typically made from gypsum or plaster of Paris, and an acrylic liquid that is water-based. While it can be cured with water alone, the resulting strength may not be as high as traditional plaster. However, when combined with the water based acrylic resin, it becomes much stronger. The acrylic liquid acts as a binding agent to unite all the components. This material produces an opaque white to off-white finish with a semi-gloss or gloss appearance, but it should not be confused with epoxy resin. This makes it an ideal choice for artists, craftsmen, and DIY enthusiasts who are looking for an alternative to traditional resins.

Just Resin's acrylic resin Composite ARC, is a two-component system consisting of a water-based acrylic liquid and a mineral powder base. ARC is proudly made in Australia. Casting and moulding applications including decorative cast objects, rigid moulds, and many other moulding projects are suitable for this system. One of the key benefits of using ARC is its low odour and non-toxic nature. Unlike traditional resins, it does not emit harmful fumes during the curing process, making it safe to use in any indoor setting without the need for special ventilation or protective gear. Its water-based formula also means that clean-up is a breeze – no more harsh chemicals needed to remove sticky residue from surfaces. Just Resin's acrylic resin Composite ARC offers artists and craftsmen a high-quality alternative to traditional resins while being environmentally friendly. Its ease of use, versatility in finishes and colours, fast curing time and non-toxic nature make it an ideal choice for all types of casting projects.

Preparation Is Important For Eco Resin

Before starting any project, please ensure a clear and safe working environment, solvent-based chemicals are not to be used within the work area. All mixing containers & tools should be clean and dry before use. Please review the TDS or SDS if needed. Work area should be out of direct sunlight, ideal temperature between 20 - 25c with less than 80% humidity. ARC is measured by weight; it is essential to use accurate scales and suitable mixing tools to ensure that the compound performs within its specification. Failure to follow this user guide can lead to lumpy mixtures, change to curing time, strength loss and reduced durability.

Eco Resin Mixing Ratio

Recommended mixing ratio is 2.5 parts Powder base to 1 part Liquid. Other mixing ratios from 2.5:1 to 3:1 can be used if faster curing or a thicker medium is required, please refer to product description. Adjustments can be made to the ratio to accommodate for sand, stone, metal and other fillers.

Mixing & Colouring Eco Acrylic Resin

When mixing ARC, please ensure the mixing container is a suitable size for the total volume of base powder, liquid and fillers. For best results, weigh the powder base in the final mixing container and weigh the liquid individually. With a gloved hand, inspect the mineral powder base to ensure its lump free. For a solid colour casting, ARC pigment can be added to the liquid or once mixing has been completed. Ensure the pigmen is mixed until liquid is uniform and to the desired colour, a maximum pigment loading of 2% total weight is recommended. Please note if pigment load exceeds the recommended loading, this may prevent ARC from curing correctly and result in weak/breakable casts. Incorporate approximately 80% of the liquid to the powder base, mix until smooth and lump free, it will form a thick paste. Add the remaining 20% of the liquid to the powder base, mix until you have achieved uniformity throughout. Please note pot life starts once liquid is added to the powder base, work time is 20 mins +/- 2 mins at 25c.

Casting Eco Resin

For simple castings pour a small amount of the mixture into a silicone mould and coat the mould surface evenly. To avoid air bubbles getting trapped on the mould surface, use a small clean brush or mixing stick to ensure all edges & corners have an even coating. A gentle tap whilst filling mould will encourage air bubbles to rise to the surface, a gentle blowtorch across the surface can also help release trapped air bubbles. Please note when applying heat to ensure constant movement, we recommend avoiding direct contact to moulds as heat may cause damage. Leave the casting to set approximately 30 - 40 mins, this can vary depending on weather condition, size of casting and amount of pigment used. Demoulding can be performed once mixture has completely set, please note ARC requires 8 - 10 hours to gain 80% of its strength. ARC will continue to harden while all the moisture evaporates from the casting, this can take up to 6 - 8 days depending on weather conditions.

Now you know what is involved with art casting using an eco casting resin, let's get creative!

Making Acrylic Resin Art

Step 1 Weigh out ARC powder & liquid, at a mixing ratio of 2.5 parts powder to 1 part liquid. Refer to our calculator online if needed.

Step 2 Pour approx 80% of the liquid into the powder, mix slowly until a thick paste forms, ensuring its smooth & free of lumps. Scrape sides & base of container.

Step 3 Pour the remainder of the liquid, and mix until a uniform mixture is achieved.

Step 4 Divide into smaller cups, and add ARC pigments to the mixture. Start with a couple of drops and increase as desired, without exceeding a 2% of total weight.

Step 5 Pour the mixture into the mould in your chosen design.

Step 6 Gently tap the sides of the mould, whilst the mixture is still liquid. This will aid in releasing unwanted bubbles.

Step 7 Leave your project to set for 40 minutes, in a cool dry area. Time To demould your water based resin project!

Step 8 Once you have taken it out of the mould, it will require 8-10 hrs to gain 80% of its strength. ARC will continue to harden while all the moisture evaporates out of the casting.

Step 9 Once your project is fully cured, you can sand, wax and polish as desired for a smooth finish.

If you're a beginner or an experienced artist looking for new ways to express yourself creatively, acrylic resin art is definitely worth trying out. With just a few simple steps and some basic materials, you can create beautiful pieces that will impress everyone who sees them. So go ahead and let your imagination run wild with this exciting form of art available from Just Resin!