Working with resin can be fun but, it’s also at times tricky and can be hazardous if handled incorrectly. Here’s some tips for resin beginners which details what NOT to do when working with resin:

Health & Safety

🚫 Don’t skip protective gear – Never work without gloves, safety glasses, and a respirator/mask (for fumes and dust from sanding). Read more about resin safety here.
🚫 Don’t work in a poorly ventilated space – Resin gives off fumes that can be harmful; avoid small, closed rooms. If you don’t have access to windows or doors that open, consider using a purifier. Read our recommendations.
🚫 Don’t touch resin with bare hands – It can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. You’ll need to use nitrile gloves like these.
🚫 Don’t sand resin without protection – Resin dust is toxic if inhaled.

Mixing & Pouring

🚫 Don’t eyeball measurements – Always measure resin and hardener precisely (usually 1:1 or 2:1 ratio, depending on type). Incorrect measurements will mean your resin does not cure.
🚫 Don’t mix too fast – Stirring aggressively traps bubbles. Use slow, steady mixing.
🚫 Don’t pour too thick at once – Many resins overheat or crack if poured in large volumes. You also risk a flash cure (read about that here). Work in thin layers.
🚫 Don’t use dirty or damp tools – Moisture can cause cloudy resin or prevent curing.

Workspace & Materials

🚫 Don’t use resin on unprotected surfaces – It sticks permanently; always cover your workspace.
🚫 Don’t use containers that melt – Resin generates heat; avoid thin plastic or flammable containers.
🚫 Don’t eat, drink, or smoke while working – Risk of accidental ingestion or contamination.
🚫 Don’t leave mixed resin unattended – It can heat up and cure rapidly, creating a fire hazard.

Curing & Finishing

🚫 Don’t rush the cure – Don’t touch, move, or demold resin before it’s fully cured; it can stay sticky or distort.
🚫 Don’t expose curing resin to dust or moisture – Keep it covered with a box or dome.
🚫 Don’t throw liquid resin in the trash – Always let leftovers cure solid first before disposal.