How to measure Epoxy Resin
Are you lost with how to measure and mix epoxy resin?
There’s a few ways it can be done. Our blog talks you through the best measuring and mixing techniques and gives you some essential tips.
Why do I need to measure my resin carefully?
Every resin brand will come with their own instructions and it is vital that you follow these to make sure:
- Your resin is safe to use
Incorrectly mixing your resin parts can lead to dangerous reactions and potentially flash cures. You must follow safety instructions to ensure you are working safely with your resin. It will have been carefully tested and not following instructions can lead to unpredictable results. - Your resin cures properly
Not using exact measurements can mean that your resin will not cure properly. As epoxy resin relies on precise measurements of two parts to create a chemical reaction which will cause your resin to cure, you must follow the instructions as provided with your chosen resin. - Your resin reaches its full strength
Resin that is not measured correctly might look like it has cured well but over time and with exposure to heat or humidity, it could weaken, warp and even crack. You really don’t want your time and effort to be wasted. Even more so if you are gifting or selling your resin.
How do I work out how to measure my epoxy resin?
Number one rule: FOLLOW YOUR INSTRUCTIONS
Every resin brand will come with its own instructions and these should be followed exactly. The chemical compound of each resin brand will vary. As listed above, there’s a number of reasons why you need to ensure you mix your resin correctly.
TIP: Some resin will be 1:1 ratio whereas others can be 2:1 or even 3:1 depending on the type and brand. Always double check before you pour and mix.
Mixing epoxy resin by volume
Many epoxy resins will be required to be mixed by volume. The best way to do this is using accurate measuring cups. You will want to use the same type of cups for measuring all parts to ensure they are equal. We like to add part A to one cup, part B to another cup then add both to a third cup. This means that you can:
- be certain that you are measuring each part correctly
- re-use the cups a number of times without risk of curing between mixes (you will need to cover of clean thoroughly between crafting sessions to avoid the resin being exposed to dust and other conditions)
- label each cup so that there is no risk of adding two lots of one part (we’ve all been there before!)
We often these silicone cups from Amazon which are clearly labeled and easy to clean.
These plastic cups are great value too if you’re looking for a disposable option too.
Mixing epoxy resin by weight
You will also find epoxy resin that is to be measured by weight. When this is the case, we like to use a good set of kitchen scales and a silicone cup. Place your cup on the scales and set the measurement to zero. Next add your part A, make note of the measurement, set your scales to zero and add part B.
TIP: Covering your scales in saran wrap / clingfilm can protect them from inevitable resin spills.
Once you’ve got your measurements sorted, you might want to check out our blog on how to remove bubbles from your resin.
