WEIGHT OR VOLUME

Is mixing resin by weight or volume really that important?

Resin is a two part component that is mixed with a part A, resin and part B, hardener (catalyst). The correct ratio is required to obtain a full cure. The ratio required is determined by the chemicals used in the resin and hardener. If the ratio mixed is incorrect it can lead to your resin not curing properly, soft curing or a chemical reaction that creates cracking and shrinkage.

Depending on the resin used it can be mixed by weight or volume but its important to note that these measurements are different. As the density between resin and hardener changes, the ratio by volume will be different to the ratio by weight.

As the resin world goes of with a boom we has such a wide variety available. Some are mixed by weight and others by volume, there is no one size fits all.

If we take a look at the resin we stock at Australian Beach Resin we have ensured a uniform pattern and all are measured by volume. When measuring by volume it is very simple, providing you have the have the right tools. Measuring cups are so important and you will go through a bunch so keep a small supply handy. Here are some examples

1:1 by Volume means equal parts by measurement. So say you need 200ml for your artwork you will mix 100mls part A and 100mls part B.

2:1 by volume means 2 parts A and 1 part B by measurement. If pouring a river table and you need 3lts you will mix 2lts part A and 1lt part B.

If you are measuring those same resins listed above by weight the correct ratio will be measured on a scale. Its important to note that the resin you use should clearly state on the label if it is to be measured by volume or weight. If you take a look at our Australian Beach Top Coat it is recommended that it be mixed by volume but it can however be mixed by weight with some small adjustments in ratio.

As it is a 2:1 by volume you would take 200mls part A and 100mls part B and mix in a measuring cup by volume.

If you were to measure this same resin by weight you would need to take 100mls of part A and 43mls of part B by weight, on a scale.

As you can see it is totally different figures on paper. Put it all in a cup and it will be the same but if you were to take Australian Beach Top Coat and weigh it on a scale at 200mls part A and q00mls part B, your ratio would be completely out of wack and you would have major issues when curing.

So at the end of the day...YES it does matter if you resin is mixed via weight or volume. Take note and follow the label instructions. If it is unclear contact your supplier and ask questions. Make sure you mix the correct amounts and scrape down the sides multiple times when stirring.

There are so many variables when it comes to resin, this is just one. Keep an eye out to see what's in our next article.

Happy Pouring!

A how to guide to using epoxy resin!

Lets start at the very beginning....what is epoxy?

Epoxy resin, is a very versatile material that is increasingly being used in the artistic community. Even though Epoxy resin, is in many industries, Artists are now using it to create jewelry, ornaments, furniture tops, home decor items and artwork. Many moulds have been designed to create items such as crystal paper weights, leaves, insects and even dining tables. On the technical side, epoxy is an organic compound, that is made up of chains of carbon that are linked together with elements, such as hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen. Epoxy generally comes in 2 parts, that when mixed, create a chemical reaction known as curing. This happens due to exposure to air, heat or chemical additives.

What are artists doing with epoxy resin?

There are so many things artists are now doing with more and more possibilities coming to light everyday. Here are some of the most popular uses

1. WALL ART - Artists are creating mesmerising artwork, using epoxy resin to create amazing colour combinations, 3D art and beautiful seascapes.

2. JEWELRY - Using moulds, artists are creating pendants, rings, beads, charms and pins.

3. COATED ITEMS - Dining tables, chopping boards, bottle caps, pennies...even bathroom floors. So many uses.

4. MOULDS - Sculptor's are using moulds to create amazing pieces of artwork.

5. PRESERVE ITEMS - Bugs, flowers, leaves and other items are being preserved in epoxy resin to give one the ability to keep it forever.

What do you need in your epoxy resin toolbox?

I am only going to touch on the basic items that you will need to work with epoxy resin. I recommend purchasing your supplies from Australian business where possible. Below I have mentioned a few Australian suppliers however I am not affiliated with them or any other business other then my own.

1. Drop sheets and table covers. I recommending using a large thick sheet to cover the floor and you can use shower curtains for the table. The epoxy peels straight off once hardened.

2. A selection of paddle pop sticks. Large, medium and small

3. Isopropyl Alcohol or acetone (cleaning)

4. Respirator Mask (very important)

5. Plastic cups. Small, Medium and Large

6. Mixing cups. Small, medium and large (depending on the work)

7. Basic kitchen scales

8. Disposable gloves

9. Level

10. Heat Gun

11. Butane Torch

Powders, Pastes or Drops?

Every epoxy resin artist, has a different preference when it comes to pigments. There are several reputable companies in Australia that deal in pigments and I have tried them all. Colour Obsession, Just Resin and Art Tree Creations are my preferred suppliers. Pigments are what is needed to mix with your epoxy resin to create your chosen colour. The amount you add determines the transparency of the colour. There are 3 main options

1. PIGMENT PASTE - This pigment has been premixed with resin to form a paste.

2. PIGMENT POWDER - This pigment is in lose powder form and can be mixed with epoxy resin.

3. INKS - Can be mixed with epoxy resin to create a translucent or opaque colour.

There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to pigment choices. There are pros and cons for each option. You may end up using all of them.

Types of epoxy resin and there uses.

ARTIST RESIN - Very thick. Used for artwork and doming

CASTING RESIN - Medium thickness. Used for artwork and coating

DEEP POUR RESIN - Very thin, used for river tables and deep pours

There are many things to consider when purchasing epoxy resin. Here are a few questions you need to think about before choosing;

1. Does it need to be food safe? ie serving board

2. Does it need to be heat resistant? ie coffee table

3. Do you need alot of movement? ie artwork

4. Do you need minimal movement? ie jewelry

5. Do you need to pour a substantial height in one pour? ie river table

6. How much working time do you need with the epoxy resin? ie are you mixing to form art

These are all very important questions that need to be answered before choosing your epoxy resin. I would like to mention, that when an epoxy resin states that it is food safe, that does not mean, that the resin is able to be cut on. What it mean,s is that it is safe for spoilage or placing food on the top. In no way shape or form is a knife, or the like, to touch that epoxy. If you were to epoxy an entire chopping board and you were then to cut on it, the knife would cut off very tiny amounts of epoxy which would go in your food, unnoticed and lead to consumption and potentially make you sick. Food safety is a widely discussed topic and it is disagreed upon regularly. I have had many conversations with epoxy suppliers who make the epoxy on site and this is the opinion I have formed.

Make sure you sign up to receive newsletters, updates, specials, promotions and notifications of new blog items. In the next blog I will go more in to depth about the types of epoxy resin, working times, curing times and the secrets no one tells you!