Do you have trouble deciding which resin kit to use? With so many types ofresinavailable from Just Resin, you may not know where to begin. We will guide you through the selection process and help you choose the perfect epoxy resin.
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Project Helper Guide
How To Choose A Resin Kit
First and foremost, it is important to consider the purpose of your project. Are you creating a piece of art, or do you need a strong and durable resin for functional items such as coasters or tabletops? Resin kits have unique properties that make them suitable for specific applications.
Think about the size and scope of your project. Some resin art kits are better suited for larger projects due to their longer curing times. While other resin art kits may be more practical for smaller pieces that require a faster cure time. Another factor to consider is if you want a clear or coloured finish. Just Resin offers both transparent and opaque pigments that can be added to the clear resin to achieve different effects. This allows for endless customisation options depending on your desired outcome.
It's also worth noting the level of experience you have working with epoxy resin. Choosing a beginner friendly kit with all necessary materials and detailed instructions may be the best way to begin using this medium. Budget may play a role in your epoxy resin kit decision making process. Kits vary in price depending on the resin art kit size and features. Just Resin offers resin kits at different price points so you will find one that fits within your budget without compromising on quality. Our goal is to make the process of creating with resin accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their skill level or financial constraints. So if you're a seasoned resin artist or beginner, Just Resin has everything you need to bring your artistic vision to life.
What Is The Best Epoxy Resin To Use?
There are many factors to consider when choosing the best resin art epoxy. Considering the purpose of your project and what you want to achieve with resin should be your first step. For coating projects, you will need a thicker and more viscous resin that can create unique effects and provide a protective layer over your object. On the other hand, casting projects require a thinner viscosity resin that can flow easily into moulds and harden into a durable final product. In addition to considering the type of project, you should also think about the curing time and temperature requirements for different types of resin art epoxy kits. Some may cure faster or require specific temperatures for optimal results. It's important to carefully follow instructions and use any necessary safety precautions when working with these chemicals. You must also decide if you want clear epoxy resin or coloured resin. Clear resins are great for preserving objects without altering their appearance, while coloured resins allow for more creative possibilities in terms of design. Coating epoxy resin systems are a good place to start if you're new to art resin epoxy. Once you have some experience with coating epoxy, you can try out casting objects.
Take a look at some of our projects using art resin epoxy in the Learn section to better understand how you can use art resin. And don't forget to practise and experiment with different techniques until you find what works best for you.
What is Epoxy Resin?
Epoxy resin is a type of synthetic polymer that is created through the reaction of two main components, an epoxy resin and a curing agent. There are many industries in which this versatile material can be applied, including construction, aerospace, marine, automotive, and art. In recent years there has been a rise in the use of epoxy resins in artistic creations. Manly due to its ability to form clear castings with minimal air bubbles. Artists use it as a medium for creating unique jewellery pieces or even larger sculptures. From clear gloss coatings to vibrant pigmented hues, this material offers plenty of options for artistic expression. Various types of epoxy resin exist, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
To better understand what epoxy resin is we look at the four main types of epoxy resins: High and Low viscosity also Slow and Fast setting.
High viscosity epoxy resins have a thicker consistency, making them better suited for filling gaps or bonding uneven surfaces. They also provide stronger and more durable bonds. High viscosity epoxy resins are ideal for projects where you want the finished piece to have depth. Low viscosity epoxy resins, on the other hand, have a thinner consistency and are primarily used for coating and laminating applications. They can penetrate deeper into porous materials to create a strong bond.
High viscosity epoxy resins have less movement and require more heat for the resin to be more fluid. While low viscosity epoxy resins are very fluid and require little to no heat to move and by nature have a better air release. The downside is the epoxy will tend to drip off the surface and incur more waste and will take a lot more coats to achieve the same thickness.
Slow setting epoxy resins take longer to cure, typically 24 hours or more. This gives users more time to work with the resin before it hardens, making it ideal for larger projects or beginners who may need extra time. Fast setting epoxy resins cure much quicker, usually within a few hours. This is great for small projects that require immediate results. Or when working with materials that cannot be clamped or held in place for an extended period of time.
Epoxy kits that cure quickly tend to produce more heat and are best used for small projects. Once you’ve decided on the type of epoxy resin you need, the next step is to choose the right formulation. There are two things to consider when choosing a formulation: curing time and hardness. Curing time is the amount of time it takes for the epoxy kit to harden. The hardness is a measure of how strong and durable the finished product will be. Finally, you need to choose a size that’s appropriate. Epoxy resins come in small, medium, and large sizes. Small sizes are perfect for small projects, while large sizes are better for bigger projects and are a lot more cost effective.
Overall, understanding the different types of epoxy resin allows individuals to choose the best option based on their project needs and skill level. If it's repairing broken items around the house or creating intricate art pieces, there is an epoxy resin suitable for every task at hand. With its versatility and strength, it's no wonder why this material has become increasingly popular among DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Having Trouble Deciding Which Art Resin To Use?
We’re here to help you understand the different resins available from Just Resin. If you're new to art resin epoxy, the wide selection from Just Resin can be overwhelming. You may even wonder if all art resin epoxy resin is the same. But don't worry, we're here to help you figure out what resin is best for your project.
The Main Art Resin Kits
Four general resin kits are Coating Resin, Casting Resin, UV Resin and Acrylic Resin.
Coating resin is a popular choice for creating a glossy, durable finish on paintings,wall artand other flat surfaces. It's easy to work with and self levelling, making it perfect for beginners. Casting resin, on the other hand, is thicker and designed specifically for creating 3D objects such as jewellery,river tablesor paperweights. Its slower curing time allows for more intricate designs to be created without worrying about bubbles forming.
UV resin has gained popularity in recent years due to its quick curing time under UV light. Making it ideal for smaller projects that require faster results. However, keep in mind that this type of resin can only be cured using UV light so it may not be suitable for all projects.
Acrylic resin is a non toxic alternative to traditional artresin epoxy resin and is great for those who are sensitive to chemicals or have allergies. It also has a longer working time compared to most resins, giving you more time to perfect your project before it sets.
A good way to figure out what resin is right for your art is to experiment with various resin types. This will give you a chance to see how each type behaves and what results you can achieve with it. Learn more about how resin art epoxy is used to create art by visitingCreate Resin Art. Ultimately, the best art resin will depend on your specific project needs and personal preferences. Let Just Resin help you choose the best type of resin.
Understanding How Epoxy Resin Works
Epoxy resin comes in two parts that are made up of a resin and a hardener. When these two substances are mixed together, they create a chemical reaction that causes the mixture to harden into a strong, durable plastic. Commonly used in the construction and repair of boats, cars, and other vehicles such as formula one race cars. It can also be used to repair household items such as dishes and countertops. Epoxy resin's strength makes it an ideal adhesive for bonding dissimilar materials together. A variety of materials, such as metal, plastic, and ceramic, can be attached to each other with it. The hardening process of epoxy is exothermic, meaning it generates heat as the cross linking occurs. This can be beneficial in cold weather conditions, as the heat generated will speed up the curing process. However, in warm weather conditions, it is important to avoid exposure to direct sunlight or high temperatures. This can cause the epoxy resin to soften and can lose its bond.
Difference Between Epoxy Coating Resin And Casting Resin
Epoxy coating resin vs casting resin are used for two main types of resin art. There are many differences between these two types of resin, so you have to take that into account when comparing them.
Epoxy coating resins are higher in viscosity that is used to coat surfaces. Curing produces a hard, durable finish that won't scratch, stain, or fade. There are a number of surfaces that can be coated with epoxy resin, including wood, metal, glass, and plastic. Commonly used in the world or resin art. Epoxy coating resin is known for its high gloss and clarity, making it a popular choice for creating stunning and vibrant artwork.
Casting resin is generally very low in viscosity that is used to create castings and great for embedding objects. It cures to a harder, and more durable finish that is resistant to scratches, staining, and fading. Casting resin can be used insilicone mouldsto create a variety of objects such as jewellery, paperweights, and tabletops. It is also commonly used in the arts and crafts industry for creating unique pieces and sculptures. The versatility of casting resin allows for endless creative possibilities, making it a popular choice among artists and hobbyists alike. With its clear finish, it can be mixed with dyes orpigmentsto create vibrant colours or left transparent to give the appearance of glass.
Which Resin Is Best For Casting?
There are three main types of casting resin at Just Resin available for casting applications. Each type of resin has its own unique set of properties that make it better suited for certain casting applications than others.
In order to choose the best casting resin, you need to consider the following factors:
The type of object you are casting
The level of detail you need
The size of the object
The quantity you need to produce
The hardness once cured
Your budget
Once you have considered all of these factors, you can begin to narrow down your options and choose the resin kit best suited for your needs. If you are still unsure which resin to use, consult with the team atjustresin.storewho specialises in casting and can help you make the best decision for an art piece. Want to know more about casting objects, head over to ourCasting ResinProject page.
What About Clarity And Clear Epoxy Resin?
In epoxy resin, clarity is important both for aesthetic and functional reasons. You will want the resin art epoxy to be as clear as possible if you are going to use it as a clear coating or finish. Likewise, if epoxy is used for functional purposes, such as adhesives or sealants, it should be clear to appear eye catching.
There are several factors that can affect the clarity of resin, including the resin type, the curing process, and the addition of any fillers or colourants. In general, however, there are many types of resins and hardeners that are known for their clarity: epoxy/diamine (cycloaliphatic) and epoxy/polyetheramine. If you need a very hard and durable clear coating or a finish that will last for years? Then an epoxy/diamine (cycloaliphatic) resin and hardener is likely your best bet. However, if you want a very high gloss with great effects. Then epoxy/polyetheramine would be best. Just Resin recommends DiamondCote for high clarity top coats and ArtCoast Slow for casting projects.
Do You Need To Fill A Space Or Coat A Surface With Epoxy?
Casting and coating are the two main uses of epoxy resin. Each resin kit has its own set of challenges, so it's important to select the right one. Casting epoxy is often used to create jewellery, sculptures, river tables, and other small to large objects. It is great to be poured into moulds but not great at coating surfaces. It can cure very quickly or extremely slow depending on the casting system, it will be very strong once cured. Also, it is not really suitable for coating as its viscosity is very low. Typically, castings are less glossy and do not provide a flawless surface finish. Coating epoxy is perfect for filling very small gaps/voids and coating surfaces. You can pour, brush, or roll it on, and it cures slowly so you can adjust it before it sets. It's also easy to sand and polish once it's cured, a great option for furniture coating and tabletops.
The Safest Way To Use Epoxy Resin
When using epoxy resin, always follow the manufacturer's safety instructions. In general, you should:
Use PPE as directed by the manufacture
Follow manufacturer's instructions when mixing and ratios
Use mixed resin and hardener in well ventilated area
Apply the resin in a thin layer
Avoid skin contact with the resin
Use gloves and safety goggles when working with epoxy resin
Allow recommended full cure times before sanding or handling the piece
Store unused resin in a cool, dry place
Clean up any spills immediately with soap and water
By following these safety precautions, you can ensure that your experience with epoxy art resin is not only creative, but also safe. If you are using epoxy resin, always read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for the best results. It's important to properly prepare your workspace before beginning any project. Make sure you have adequate ventilation and protect your work surface from spills and drips. Follow the manufacturer's recommended ratios when mixing resin and hardener. Deviating from these ratios may result in an incomplete cure or improper bonding of materials.
Are You Measuring Resin Correctly?
When measuring resin, it's important to remember a few things. First, you'll need to know the ratio of resin to the hardener product. This will typically be 1:1 or 2:1, 3:1 and even 5:1 by volume or weight but it's always best to consult your specific product's instructions. Once you know the ratio, you'll need to know if this product is measured by volume or weight. Then you can measure out the appropriate amount of each component. For small to medium projects, this is a great option since measuring cups come in sizes large enough to fit the total volume in one cup. For large projects, such as river tables, it is much easier to measure by weight since any pail or bucket can be used. Head over to our Resin Calculator page to help measure all your resin pour projects.
How To Use Resin For Art?
Our Project Helper does just that help you determine how to use resin for art. A resin epoxy is a great medium for creating beautiful and unique works of art. But if you choose the wrong type of resin, it can be a bit difficult. As epoxy is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of purposes. Besides being an adhesive, it can also act as a coating, an embedding agent, and a sealant. A resin art kit comes in two parts, the resin and the hardener. Mixing these two parts causes a chemical reaction that hardens the mixture. Our Resin Project Helper will walk you through the basics of using Just Resin epoxy resin for art. It will also help guide which resin art kit suits each type of project. You will be able to create stunning works of art that are sure to impress even as a beginner. Although working with epoxy resin may seem intimidating at first, our Project Helper will guide you through the process from start to finish. We provide detailed instructions on how to properly mix the two parts together. We guide you to achieve different effects with colour additives and techniques such as layering and marbling. The possibilities are endless when it comes to using Just Resin epoxy resin for art projects. If you're an experienced artist or just starting out in the world of crafting, we have everything you need.
Each Epoxy Resin Kit Is Different
Each type of epoxy resin kit has its own unique set of properties and characteristics. What resin to use for your project can be a daunting task. There are many types of art resins online from Just Resin and they range from coating resin, casting resin, thick, thin, fast, slow, cells or no cells, soft and hard and everything in between. Most epoxy resin kits will be great at one project and not for others. For example products that are great for topcoats that are thick, very slow curing but will not create cells and unique effects, or like deep casting resin that is ideal for river tables but take weeks to cure. Coating resin systems are ideal for topcoats from bench tops, wall art and even cheese boards at Just Resin we have designed our systems to be very universal. Just Resin offers epoxy resin kits that are ideal for topcoats that are fast curing and will create amazing cells and unique effects. Please check our Characteristic Guide to help you choose what epoxy resin to use.
How Can Just Resin Help With My Resin Art?
Just Resin is a great resource for finding the right type of art resin. With so many types of resin available choosing the right resin can be challenging. Just Resin can help you with your resin art project by providing expert advice and tips. Just Resin produces high quality epoxy resin kits that are perfect for a variety of different art projects. Consider what type of project you're working on. Will your project be indoors or will it be subjected to sunlight? Most epoxy resins are crystal clear with a glossy finish. Over time this can change as weather and sunlight can have a major impact on the life of your project. Because not all artistry epoxy resin systems have built in UV protection to prevent yellowing and brittleness over time. Using a resin kit that has great UV stability is a must. Just Resin uses HALS UV protection in all our premium epoxy resin systems. HALS UV protection is regarded as one of the best UV additives in the industry. This means that your artistic creations will not only maintain their clarity and shine, but they will also be protected from the damaging effects of sunlight. Our epoxy resin kits are also incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various techniques such as casting, coating, and embedding. Beginners and experienced artists alike can easily create stunning pieces using the instructions included in each kit. Plus, our kits come in a variety of sizes enabling you to choose the perfect amount for your project without wasting excess product. Our resin starter kits come with all the necessary tools and materials, that way you can get started right away without having to purchase additional supplies. No matter if you're a professional artist looking to top up your resin tool kit or just starting out on your creative journey. Just Resin's epoxy resin kits are the perfect choice for achieving beautiful, long lasting results in your artwork.
Why Do I Want A Fast Curing Epoxy Resin?
Fast curing epoxy is ideal for very small castings and coating projects when multiple layers are needed. If you need a fast curing resin for a quick turnaround project, then a fast curing epoxy resin like ArtCast Fast is the best choice. The best epoxy resin for large areas and thicker pours is a slow curing epoxy resin like ArtCast Slow or RiverPour is the better option.
Why Do I Want A Slow Curing Epoxy Resin?
When working on a project requiring a lot of detail, you will want to useArtCast Slow a slow curing epoxy resin. Due to the longer hardening time, it is easier to work with, so you can take your time and make sure your masterpiece is perfect. Slow curing epoxy resins are also great for projects that require thick multiple layers, embedding and very large pours. It's best to use a fast curing epoxy resin system such as ArtCast Fast if you need to apply a lot of thin layers quickly. Created purely for large deep pours RiverPour has low exothermic reaction and is the best option on the market for pour depths measuring up to 50mm.
The Best Art Resin For Art?
When used for art projects, artresin epoxy resin provides a clear, glossy finish. Epoxy resins come in different viscosities, hardnesses, and with various additives. All of these factors can affect the way the resin behaves and how it will interact with your project. For art resin projects, you want to choose a resin that is clear and that will stay vivid and true when colourant is added. You also want a resin that is great at self levelling so that your artwork will have a smooth, professional finish. As many art resin kits have little to no UV inhibitors. Over time all your hard work can go to waste as your project can dull, yellow and go brittle. That's why having UV inhibitors will help protect your artwork from going dull or yellowing over time. Consider using our Art Resin from Just Resin for best results. When choosing an art resin, it is important to consider the type of art project first. If you need a strong, durable finish, then you will want a harder epoxy resin. For projects that require flexibility, like mirror and glass pours or coasters, then you will want a softer artresin epoxy resin. Additives can also affect epoxy resins and change the way they behave. Some additives can make the resin thicker or thinner, and can also change the cure time. Just Resin can help you better understand the different types of epoxy resins available and what each one is best for.
As an expert in the field of epoxy resins, I bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to guide you through the intricate world of resin kits. My expertise is rooted in a deep understanding of the properties and applications of various epoxy resins, including those offered by Just Resin. I've worked extensively with different types of resins, experimenting with their unique characteristics and applications, and staying abreast of the latest trends and developments in the field.
Now, let's delve into the concepts used in the provided article:
Purpose and Considerations for Resin Kits:
1. Project Considerations:
- Art vs. Functional Items: Resin kits have unique properties suitable for specific applications, whether it's creating art or functional items like coasters or tabletops.
- Project Size and Scope: Consider the size and scope of your project as certain resin kits are better suited for larger or smaller projects.
2. Resin Characteristics:
- Curing Times: Some resin art kits have longer curing times, suitable for larger projects, while others cure faster for smaller pieces.
- Clear or Colored Finish: Just Resin offers both transparent and opaque pigments for customizing the finish.
3. Experience Level and Budget:
- Experience Level: Consider your experience level; there are beginner-friendly kits with detailed instructions.
- Budget: Kits vary in price, but Just Resin provides options at different price points without compromising quality.
Types of Epoxy Resin:
1. Choosing the Best Epoxy Resin:
- Consider Project Purpose: Whether it's coating or casting, the choice of resin depends on the project's purpose.
- Curing Time and Temperature: Different resins may have varying curing times and temperature requirements.
- Clear vs. Colored Resin: Decide if you want a clear epoxy resin or one with added color for creative possibilities.
2. Understanding Epoxy Resin:
- Epoxy Resin Types: High and low viscosity, slow and fast setting epoxy resins offer different characteristics for various applications.
3. Casting vs. Coating Resin:
- Casting Resin: Thicker viscosity, ideal for 3D objects, slower curing time for intricate designs.
- Coating Resin: Thinner viscosity, suitable for coating surfaces, faster curing time.
4. Clarity and Clear Epoxy Resin:
- Importance of Clarity: Clarity is crucial for aesthetic and functional reasons in epoxy resin.
- Types for Clarity: Epoxy/diamine and epoxy/polyetheramine are known for their clarity.
Safety and Usage Guidelines:
1. Safety Precautions:
- PPE Usage: Always follow manufacturer instructions for using personal protective equipment.
- Ventilation: Work in well-ventilated areas and avoid skin contact with the resin.
- UV Protection: Consider UV stability, especially for projects exposed to sunlight.
2. Measuring and Mixing:
- Ratio Knowledge: Understand the resin-to-hardener ratio, whether measured by volume or weight.
- Resin Calculator: Utilize tools like the Resin Calculator for accurate measurements.
3. Choosing the Right Kit:
- Kit Varieties: Different kits like Coating Resin, Casting Resin, UV Resin, and Acrylic Resin cater to specific project needs.
- Expert Assistance: Just Resin provides expert advice to help choose the right kit for your project.
Conclusion:
Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner, understanding the nuances of epoxy resins and selecting the right kit is crucial for successful projects. Just Resin stands out as a reliable resource, offering a diverse range of high-quality epoxy resin kits to meet various artistic needs.
