Resin tools for beginners

When you decide to start working with epoxy resin, it’s crucial to have the right tools. Since each resin tool is used for a very specific task, you should ensure you use the correct tool to save you time, effort and money. Let’s look at where to begin getting your resin tools together.

You can buy resin supplies online from a reputable supplier like PoxyArt. They have a comprehensive selection of resin tools and are happy to share advice with beginners.

But first, a note on the importance of plastic resin tools. Epoxy resin doesn’t adhere to plastic, so using plastic tools makes for an easy clean-up. To clean your plastic tools, you can spritz wet tools with isopropyl alcohol, then wipe them dry with a paper towel. You might need to do this a few times to remove all the resin before washing the tools in hot soapy water. Then, allow your tools to dry thoroughly before you use them again.

Alternatively, you can lay wet tools on a plastic surface overnight for the resin to cure. Then, peel the resin off the next day.

Your resin tools must be clean and dry before using. Dirty tools can introduce dust and other debris into your mixture and ruin your project. And if oil or solvents make it into your mixture, it can prevent the resin from curing correctly.

Water, on the other hand, can cause a cloudy cure.

Now, on to the essential tools and resin supplies.

Old clothes or an apron

It is tough to remove resin drips from clothing, so make sure you cover up or wear old clothes while you work. Also, long hair should be tied up to keep it out of harm’s way.

Plastic drop sheets

Grab a couple of sturdy liners or a clear, smooth vinyl shower curtain to protect your floor and work surface from resin drops. As mentioned above, you can clean the resin mess away and use the same plastic covers repeatedly.

Masking tape

Much like you’d use masking tape for other art projects, it is ideal for catching drips for a neat finish on your artwork.

Stir sticks

Undermixed resin will not cure properly. The best stir stick for resin has a flat side that makes it easy to scrape the sides and bottom of the container to ensure every last bit of resin and hardener are combined. If you use wood craft sticks/tongue depressors, you should dispose of them after each use. Instead, opt for reusable plastic stir sticks.

Mixing container

Inaccurately measured resin and hardener will not cure. To prevent this, measure and mix your resin in a graduated plastic measuring jug.

Plastic spreader

A plastic spreader with a flat edge is ideal for distributing the resin evenly over your piece.

Torch

For a flawless, bubble-free, finish you can’t beat a flame torch. If you’re working with silicone moulds, a heat gun is a good option.

Toothpicks

Hard to believe, but toothpicks are indispensable resin tools. Once you’ve torched your piece, look at your project at eye level under a light. Then use your toothpick for popping stray bubbles and fishing out bits of dust or hair.

Isopropyl alcohol and paper towel

These items are essential for spills and clean up. A few important things to remember when cleaning up resin:

• Never pour resin down the sink.
• Never use alcohol to wipe resin from your hands. Because it breaks down resin, your skin may absorb some of it. 
• If you do happen to get resin on your skin, wash it off immediately and dry rub your hands with a small amount of salt and some liquid soap to remove the resin. Always rinse well with water.

Get the resin tools and start crafting

For more information about resin supplies and resin tools stocked by PoxyArt, contact us or browse through our website to see what else we offer resin artists.