ArtResin 101: Step 1 - Prep

Welcome to our new series, ArtResin 101 - the ultimate guide on how to use clear ArtResin Epoxy Resin!

So, we all know the expression, it's all in the prep work ...
Well, this is true for ArtResin too!

Getting your work surface, artwork and tools ready to go means you won't lose precious working time trying to find a tool ... or abandoning your wet artwork while you run around trying to find a cover.

To get started with ArtResin, the first step is to prep your workspace and your artwork. Here's how:

GATHER YOUR TOOLS:
- a few garbage bags
- stands to prop up your piece ( use pyramid stands or even large lego blocks )
- painter's tape
- a level
- a measuring cup
- a mixing container
- a mixing stick
- a spreader
- a disposable brush
- a pair of disposable gloves
- toothpicks to fish out bits of dust or hair
- ArtResin
- your artwork
- a box big enough to cover your artwork

PREP YOUR ARTWORK:
Make sure your work is completely dry and free of any dust or debris before applying ArtResin

REINFORCING A LARGE CANVAS:
If your work is on a large canvas, you'll want to reinforce it at the back with some cardboard. Resin is heavy! Reinforcing the back will prevent the canvas from sagging and prevent the resin from pooling in the centre.

SEALING:
If your artwork involves ink, paper, or anything that has the potential to bleed or absorb wet ArtResin, we always recommend erring on the side of caution and pre-sealing your piece.

TAPING:
If you plan to resin the sides of your artwork, tape off the bottom of your artwork with painter's tape to catch any drips

PREP YOUR WORK SURFACE:
Lay out a few garbage bags, or a clear, vinyl shower curtain, or a vinyl tablecloth over your work surface

Next, prop your piece up on stands and make sure it's level ...

Now you're ready for step 2 - Measuring Your ArtResin!

[CarlosEmilioSantos]

Did you remove the pieces of cardboard that you put behind the large canvas or did you leave them there permanently? I'm asking you because I want to put resin on a large canvas and I'm afraid that it will pool in the middle.

[musicbymark]

I'm pouring epoxy into a 1.25" wide painted channel around a picture frame, filled with different bottle caps. I want to pour epoxy into that channel about one quarter inch deep, to just cover the bottle caps around the perimeter of the frame.

My concern is that since the bottle caps are hollow underneath that I might get unpleasant bubbles throughout the poor as the air escapes while it cures, even though the channel itself was painted.

Any suggestions? Is this likely to be a major problem and possibly ruin my project? Thanks for the video.

[armoniard]

I got pits when resin cured
How do I avoid this?