What does the Weather have to do with my Resin Epoxy?
The weather affects more than our moods - it affects our artwork as well. Some of us may have learned that the hard way.
What happens if your resin epoxy has frozen?
If your resin is being delivered during freezing temperatures, don't worry!
First, bring your bottles inside to get them to room temperature.
You may see some cloudiness inside or even some crystallization. Before you are ready to get to work, check if your resin looks smooth. If you think it needs a little warming up, no problem at all.
Place your tightly closed bottles in a warm water bath. Do not fully submerge them, you don't want any water to get inside the bottles. The warm water bath should get your resin to the optimum working temperature and consistency.
Do NOT place your resin in the sun to warm up or the microwave. Not everything that you read on the internet is a good idea!
Some of us live in warmer climates and are not affected by the extreme cold weather, but maybe something even worse.... HUMIDITY.
Resin's biggest enemy is humidity.
We know that moisture in our resin affects the curing process. We find moisture in flower preservations or other inclusions. Everything that you add to your resin project must be completely dry first. But what about the moisture in the air?
Optimal working environment is a room temperature between 77°F and 80°F with 50-60% humidity.
Heat can affect resin in a cured object too. Prolonged exposure to heat can make your resin artwork soften. Cured resin art should not be exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight for any length of time. If you are showing your artwork in an outdoor festival be careful not to stack or lean them against each other. This may cause bending or denting in your works.
A heater in cold temperatures. Air conditioning in warmer temperatures. If needed, a dehumidifier in humid climates!
Work with 2 part epoxy resin in a warm, dry environment throughout the curing process. During the first 24 hours it is important to keep the temperature in your working environment stable. Dips in temperature can create bumps, ripples, and imperfections on the surface of your piece. Stabilize your temps, this way you will create beautiful art that cures hard, shiny, smooth and crystal clear.