A Step-by-Step Beginners Guide: How to Do Epoxy Resin Art?

Resin art has become very popular as a captivating way to express creativity. This amazing form of art uses resin as its main material, whether it's epoxy or casting. Resin can even be used in moulds along with special elements like dried flowers or shells to create unique pieces of art. When it comes to epoxy art, the resin acts as a strong varnish, making art pieces more durable and giving them a glossy finish. This type of resin can be combined with paint or alcohol ink, or it can be poured directly onto a finished painting. 

To grasp the core of epoxy resin in resin art, it's important to know a few key things. Epoxy resin is made up of two parts:

• The resin itself and a hardener
• Often called Part A and B
• The base and catalyst 

When these two parts are mixed well together, a chemical reaction happens, turning the liquid into a solid material. It takes around 24 to 72 hours for this curing process to be completed. Once the epoxy resin is fully cured, it transforms into an incredibly hard substance that is resistant to chemicals and moisture. Throughout the market, various brands and types of epoxy resin are available, each made for specific applications such as art, coating, or casting. It is important to select a resin specifically formulated for resin art for better results. Premium quality art and craft resins, known for their clarity and user-friendliness, often include light stabilisers to counteract any potential yellowing over time. You can learn how to do epoxy resin art through a resin art course. 

Master the Art of Epoxy Resin with 12 Easy Steps 

Step 1: Arrange Your Space

To get started, arrange your space for resin painting. Make sure you have enough room for the painting surface where the resin can flow off the edges. Remember to keep the area undisturbed for a couple of days until the resin is fully dry. If needed, you can use a different spot, like the kitchen table, and avoid eating meals there during this period. To safeguard your floor, cover it with a tarp.

Step 2: Find a Suitable Surface

Select a suitable surface to serve as the base for your resin art. Following are some of the surfaces you should consider as your canvas for epoxy resin art: 

• Wood: Epoxy works really well with surfaces that have tiny holes, and one of the best choices for that is wood. When epoxy and wood are used together, it's a great combination because each one benefits the other.

• Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is very common in construction and crafting projects. If you use epoxy with it and make sure the surface is clean and ready, you can expect a strong bond. 

• Bamboo: Bamboo is like a type of grass, even though it's often considered as wood in construction. It doesn't have a natural woody inside, but it can still work well with epoxy.

Step 3: Gather All Supplies

Have all the necessary supplies with you to avoid wasting time searching for them during the process. To complete your epoxy project, there are several essential supplies you'll need, including the following:

• Containers to accurately measure and mix the epoxy resin. 
• Stir sticks for proper blending of the resin and hardener. 
• A cordless drill equipped with a mixing drill bit will come in handy for this task as well.
• Seal coat brush for precise application of the epoxy resin. 
• A heat gun is essential. 
• A caulk will be necessary for sealing up any temporary dams or moulds.
• A spray cleaner and wax cleaner are essential for cleaning your epoxy tabletop, countertop, or bar top.

Step 4: Calculate the Resin Required

Now, it is time for you to calculate the amount of epoxy resin needed to cover your chosen artwork surface adequately. To do this, you have three ways.

• Option 1: Use Water

This is the easiest way to calculate how much resin you need. If you have a mould or bezel with sides, fill it with water and then pour the water into a measuring spoon or cup. Please keep in mind that you might not catch every drop of water, so it's a good idea to mix a little extra resin to compensate for this. 

• Option 2: Resin Calculator

Measure the length, width, and height of your item or flat surface, and input these measurements into an online resin calculator. It will calculate the exact amount of resin you need for your project.

• Option 3: Do the Math Yourself

For instance, if you have a mould cavity that is 1 inch square by 1/2 inch deep, the volume would be 0.5 cubic inches. Since 1 cubic inch equals 16.3871 millilitres, the mould cavity would hold approximately 8.2 ml (rounding up to the nearest ml). For other shapes like cylinders or spheres, you can use the formulas provided to calculate the volume. Remember, if you're only using half of a sphere mould, divide the volume by two.

Step 5: Get Your Resin Painting Surface Ready for Use

Prepare the back of your resin painting surface by using painter's tape along the edges. This will allow for easy removal once the pouring process is complete. To ensure the stability of your stretched canvas artwork, it is advisable to reinforce it at the back using cardboard. This will add strength and prevent any sagging or pooling of resin in the centre. Additionally, if you intend to apply resin on the sides of your artwork, it is recommended to tape off the bottom part with painter's tape. This will effectively catch any drips and ensure a clean and tidy finished result.

Step 6: Raise Your Painting Surface

To enhance your resin painting surface, raise it by placing cups or shims underneath. Make sure there is enough space for the resin to flow off the edges. This helps prevent the formation of unwanted puddles, which would then need more sanding to fix. By doing so, the resin will have a designated space to go, allowing it to move around and eventually drip off your canvas without causing any mess. This simple technique not only helps keep your work area clean but also ensures that your artwork remains intact and free from unnecessary smudges or smears caused by excessive resin.

Step 7: Use a Leveler

To make sure your surface is even, it's important to use a leveller. This step is crucial because if your surface isn't level, the resin you're working with may move around and mix colours in unexpected ways. A levelling board is a useful tool as it ensures a level surface for pouring resin or other mediums, enabling you to achieve perfect levelling of your products. A board allows you to attain a smooth and even surface, eliminating any potential distortions or unevenness. By using it, you can confidently pour your chosen material, knowing it will spread evenly without any unwanted pooling or unevenness.

Step 8: Follow the Instructions Provided

Follow the instructions provided and thoroughly mix the epoxy resin and hardener. Mix the resin and hardener in the right amounts and put them in a container made of plastic, metal, or wax-free paper. Don't use containers made of glass or foam because they can get really hot. It's important to have the correct ratio of resin and hardener, so don't try to change it to make the epoxy harden faster or slower. The epoxy needs to cure completely and gain its proper properties, and this can only happen with the right ratio. If you want to, you can make the resin more colourful by dividing it into different cups and blending in the shades you prefer.

Step 9: Mixing Resin

To accurately measure your resin liquids, make sure to use mixing cups that have visible lines to guide you. It's important to work in a warm crafting area but not excessively hot. To blend the colours on your artwork surface:

• Start by pouring the coloured resin slowly and gradually.
• Pour it into ribbons to initiate the blending process.
• Pour the resin and hardener into separate cups, taking care to measure precisely.
• Combine the two parts and stir thoroughly, scraping the sides of the cups and stirring the stick regularly.

While you are still learning how to do epoxy resin art, it is advisable to set a timer to stay focused and complete the process before the resin starts to cure. Initially, the mixed resin may appear wavy, but as you continue to stir, the streaks will vanish.

Step 10: Erase All Bubbles

To ensure a smooth outcome, remember to pour the resin or hardener down the side of the measuring cup instead of pouring from a high height, as this can create air bubbles. It is crucial to maintain a precise 1:1 ratio of resin to hardener by volume, so double-check your measurements. To further prevent air from entering the mixture, press the stirring utensil firmly against the bottom of the cup while mixing. After pouring the resin and hardener, allow it to sit for approximately two minutes. To eliminate any remaining air bubbles, you can use various tools such as an artist's torch, heat gun, kitchen torch, lighter, toothpick, or straw. Keep an eye on the mixture for the next 1-2 hours to ensure no additional bubbles appear.

Step 11: Cover Your Final Product

Cover your epoxy art to shield it from dust, hair, and other particles that could compromise the final result. Allow the resin to dry for approximately 24 hours, although a complete cure may take up to seven days. 

To keep resin pieces free from dust, proper ventilation is crucial. However, circulating air can cause dust particles to float around your workspace. Once you've mixed the resin and it's degassing, turn off the AC and let the dust settle. For an extra step, you can mist the air with a water-filled spray bottle to help bring the dust down to the ground and prevent it from stirring up as you work. Don't forget to cover both the mixed resin and your project before using the spray bottle.

Step 12: Frame Your Art Piece

After your resin art has fully dried and hardened, please put it in a frame and display it in a suitable spot. It's essential to keep it away from direct sunlight and vents that blow hot or cold air, as these can affect its long-lasting charm and colour intensity. Now, take a moment to relax and appreciate your unique epoxy masterpiece for many years ahead.

Conclusion 

Epoxy resin art is a captivating and creative way to express your artistic vision. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, mastering how to do epoxy resin art requires patience, practice, and attention to detail. By following the 12-step guide provided, you can confidently create stunning resin artwork that will leave a lasting impression. Remember to choose a suitable surface, calculate the amount of resin needed, prepare your workspace, and mix the resin and hardener correctly. Take your time to blend the colours and remove any bubbles, then allow the resin to cure fully before framing and displaying your masterpiece. With the right materials, techniques, and a touch of imagination, resin art offers endless possibilities for creating unique and eye-catching pieces that are sure to amaze. To learn how to do epoxy resin art, contact us today!