How To Make Your Resin Project A Success

How To Make Your Resin Project A Success – Most Common Art Resin Mistakes

Resin casting is a lot of fun. Its versatility gives you room to be as creative as you can. However, using it is not easy, especially for beginners. Here are some common mistakes that you can avoid on your next project:

1.   Not measuring the resin and hardener accurately

It is very important to measure the resin and hardener accurately. To get the exact amount, use measuring cups with graduated lines, spoons, and other measuring tools. Trusting your personal judgment as to how much you need will not do you any favors. Use measuring tools to get the right amount for the project at all times. 

2.   Not mixing the resin and hardener properly

Proper mixing of resin and hardener is important to prevent bubble formation and achieve the expected hardness and curing time. When you mix, make sure that the container is big enough for the solution to move freely. Don’t forget to scrape the bottom and the sides to fully incorporate both parts the resin. Mix for about 3 minutes. Do not overdo it. Mixing too fast and too long also has an adverse effect on the resin.

3.   Not reading the label

Not all resins are created the same. Never assume that the resin you are using now is the same as the brand that you’ve been using. Read the label carefully to learn how to use it. Check the website to understand more about the product. Learn its application, technique, proper storage, and other information from the company’s website. Or visit their Facebook group where you can find helpful information.

4.     Not having enough time to work on the project

Never start a resin project when you only have 30 minutes to an hour to spare. You need plenty of time to prepare the materials, to mix the resin, color it, add glitters, get the bubbles out, and smoothen up the surface. You need a lot of patience waiting for hours until the resin cures before you can proceed to the next step. Great resin art is a product of hours of labor, and there is no shortcut to it.

5.     Not preparing the materials you need before mixing the resin. 

It is a mortal sin to mix the resin first before you prepare other materials that you need!  By the time you get your things ready, your resin has been sitting there and starts to thicken and there is no way to bring it back to its original consistency. You need to start all over again, and that’s a waste of time and effort.

6.     Choosing a project that is way above your skill level

Start working on smaller and easier projects. Don’t get too excited and choose complicated artworks created by seasoned artists. Take your time to develop the skills that you need to do more advanced crafts. It takes a lot of experience before you can do complex art at a satisfactory level. Remember that the artists showing their works on YouTube and Instagram are experts in their field.

7.     Not focusing on what you do

When you start doing resin art, be committed to finish it. You can’t mix the resin then call your friends and ask where to hang out for dinner. 

8.     Choosing the wrong resin

There are so many resins in the market today, and not all of them are equal.  There are pros and cons in choosing one brand over the other. For example, you cannot substitute a resin for home artwork with another resin intended for industrial use. It will not work. Do your research on the best resin for your project.  

9.     Using other additives than what is recommended

Resin is very specific that it tends to reject additives/colorants that aren’t intended for use with resin. When you put something in it aside from the recommended products, don’t expect the same result on the finished piece. Colorants designed for resin works best to assure you get the color and finishes you expect.

We have a Facebook group where you can find advice from the Counter Culture DIY team and our wonderful customers.