Resin art is a rewarding creative outlet, but beginners often hit a few snags when getting started. Whether you’re pouring coasters, casting in molds, or trying your first geode design, learning from others’ missteps can save time, money, and frustration.
Here are the top 10 mistakes beginners make in resin art—and how to avoid them.
1. Not Measuring Resin and Hardener Accurately
Mistake: Eyeballing the amounts or using inaccurate measuring tools.
Solution: Always use a digital scale or marked measuring cups to get the exact 1:1 or 2:1 ratio (based on your resin type). Incorrect ratios lead to sticky, soft, or uncured resin.
2. Mixing Too Quickly
Mistake: Stirring fast to speed things up.
Solution: Mix slowly and thoroughly for at least 3–5 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom of your cup. This reduces air bubbles and ensures the resin cures properly.
3. Ignoring Temperature & Humidity
Mistake: Working in a cold or humid environment.
Solution: Work in a room between 70–75°F (21–24°C) with low humidity. Cold temps slow curing, while moisture can cloud your resin or cause surface issues.
4. Pouring Too Thick at Once
Mistake: Doing one large pour to save time.
Solution: Follow manufacturer guidelines for maximum pour depth per layer. Deep pours generate heat and can crack, yellow, or never fully cure.
5. Not Using the Right Resin for the Project
Mistake: Using coating resin for molds or vice versa.
Solution: Use casting resin for deep molds and coating resin for thin surfaces like trays or artwork. Each type behaves differently.
6. Skipping Bubble Removal
Mistake: Leaving bubbles that rise during curing.
Solution: After pouring, use a heat gun or torch to pop surface bubbles. Pre-warming your resin and molds also helps prevent trapped air.
7. Adding Too Much Pigment
Mistake: Overloading with color or additives.
Solution: Keep pigment load to under 10% of the total resin mix. Too much color can stop resin from curing fully and cause surface flaws.
8. Demolding Too Early
Mistake: Trying to pop your piece out before it’s fully cured.
Solution: Wait the full cure time (usually 24–72 hours) before demolding. Even if it feels solid, early demolding can warp or dent your project.
9. Forgetting Safety Gear
Mistake: Not protecting yourself or the space.
Solution: Always wear nitrile gloves, eye protection, and work in a well-ventilated area. Some resins release fumes that can irritate skin or lungs.
10. Not Testing Before a Big Project
Mistake: Jumping into a large piece without practice.
Solution: Do small test pours when trying new molds, colors, or resin brands. It helps you get familiar with curing times, mixing behavior, and final results.
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