How to use epoxy resin? (complete beginner’s guide)
Do you want to learn how to use epoxy resin easily, without making mistakes? You’ve come to the right place.
Epoxy resin is currently one of the most widely used materials for creating:
- jewelry
- river tables
- decorative objects
- DIY creations
But for a beginner, there are many questions:
👉 what dosage should I use?
👉 how do I avoid bubbles?
👉 why isn’t the resin hardening?
In this complete guide, you will discover all the steps to use epoxy resin correctly, with simple and effective tips.
Equipment for using epoxy resin
To use epoxy resin properly, you will need:
- Epoxy resin + hardener
- A precision scale (1 gram)
- Graduated mixing cups
- Stirring sticks
- Silicone molds
- Protective gloves
- Respiratory protection
- Colorants for epoxy resin
How to mix epoxy resin
Mixing is the most important step for successful epoxy resin projects.
Proportions to follow
Most resins use a ratio of:
- 1:1
- or 2:1
👉 Other ratios also exist. It is therefore essential to always check the instructions indicated on the resin and hardener bottles.
Simple steps
- Pour the resin (A)
- Add the hardener (B)
- Mix slowly for 2 to 3 minutes
- Scrape the sides and bottom well
❗ Poor mixing = sticky resin or resin that doesn’t harden
How to color epoxy resin
You can customize your resin with:
- liquid pigments
- mica powders
- alcohol inks
👉 Always add colorants after mixing
How to pour epoxy resin without bubbles
The pour must be precise to avoid defects.
Best practices:
- Pour slowly
- Aim for the lowest point
- Work on a flat surface
- Do not exceed the maximum recommended thickness
How to remove bubbles in epoxy resin
Bubbles in epoxy resin are a very common problem, especially for beginners. Fortunately, there are several simple solutions to obtain a smooth and transparent surface.
Effective solutions for removing bubbles
- Blowtorch (fastest method)
- Heat gun (more precise and controllable)
- Toothpick or needle (ideal for finishing touches)
👉 Quickly pass a heat source over the surface to pop the bubbles.
Warning: the flame must not come into contact with the resin.
👉 Use a toothpick to:
- pierce small visible bubbles
- delicately bring them to the surface
- correct hard-to-reach areas
💡 Tip: work gently so as not to create new bubbles.
Drying time for epoxy resin
The time depends on the product, but generally:
- 24h for pours less than 2 cm
- 48 to 72h for thick pours up to 10 cm
❌ Common mistakes with epoxy resin
- Incorrect dosage
- Mixing for less than 3 minutes
- Poor ventilation
- Too much humidity
- Temperature below 18°C
💡 Tips for successful epoxy resin projects
- Ideal temperature: 20–25°C
- Use silicone molds
- Run tests before a big project
- Work in a clean, dust-free area
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Some resins use a ratio by weight or by volume, which allows you to dose with a graduated cup without a scale.
The ideal temperature is between 20°C and 25°C during the entire application and drying process.
Yes, light sanding improves adhesion between two coats of hardened resin (after 24h)
A second coat can be applied when the resin has started to harden but remains slightly sticky to the touch (“tacky” phase). Otherwise, wait about 12 to 24 hours depending on the product.
The resin adheres very well to wood, metal, and glass, provided the surface is clean and dry.
