Resin - a small guide!

Today’s post is dedicated to “liquid glass” or the so-called “resin”.

“Liquid glass” is the commercial term for two-components- epoxy resin (resin + catalyst-hardener), which, after its solidification, acquires an appearance and texture, that resembles that of glass, on whatever surface it is applied.

At SnP, you will find Artists Grade Clear, ArtResin, UV resin that dries very quickly when exposed to UV radiation or the sun, and AmazinCast, ideal for casting, in white color and ready to be painted.

Here, we should also note that ArtResin is suitable for creating household items (always following the instructions for use).

Liquid glass uses are many and can be applied in two ways:

-By casting in molds, in which all kinds of decorative elements can be encased at the same time.

Here we should remind you that any type of material or object that is to be encased in crafts with liquid glass, e.g. flowers, sand, shells, paper, photos, metal-wooden elements, glitter, beads, etc. should be absolutely dry without the slightest trace of moisture or dust.

-With coating on objects-surfaces, such as tables, metal trays, clay bowls, glass, and many others. Here the resin can also act as a varnish.

Basic process

Whatever you decide to create, keep in mind that since this is a chemical product, wearing gloves is essential. Also, it's a good idea to protect your desktop. But if your surface gets dirty while the resin is still wet, then you can clean it with acetone or alcohol. Otherwise, if it dries and stabilizes then you will need some solvent and sandpaper.

The two components to create liquid glass are mixed in disposable utensils or plastic measuring mixing cups or sticks with a small wooden or plastic spatula, which is also used to "spread" the material during creation.

Of course, you can color the resin as well! It needs a minimal amount of color, either in liquid form i.e. alcohol inks and art resin tints, or in powder i.e. pigments! Pour drops of color or an equivalent amount of powder into the prepared liquid glass mixture and mix very well until it is completely incorporated into the mixture.

Then and while the liquid glass is still fluid you can intervene with a spatula, a toothpick, etc., depending on the object size, to create patterns with the colored mixtures.

Finally, depending on the object size, the solidification time varies. However, the average solidification time for small-medium simple crafts ranges from 1-2 up to 48 hours. We must mention here that it is safe to let your creation solidify on a level surface and certainly protected from dust!

So, the basic guidelines are these! But I'm sure that if you try it, you'll be so addicted because the possibilities are endless!

 Now, it’s your turn!

Until next time,

Artistic kisses