Mixing Epoxy Resin: Tips and Tricks for a Successful Pour
In today’s tutorial, Steve with Upstart Epoxy shows you what to be aware of when working with and mixing epoxy resin, whether its our table top epoxy or deep pour.. You’ll learn what temperatures to keep your epoxy in, how to work with them once you’ve poured, basic mixing techniques, and more!
Skill Level: Beginner/Intermediate/Expert
Estimated Working Time: N/A
What You’ll Need:
Upstart Epoxy Table Top Resin
Upstart Epoxy Deep Pour Resin
Mechanical Mixer
Spreader (Included)
Mixing Epoxy Resin: Deep Pour
Let's start this off by talking about mixing deep pour epoxy resin. Remember that this formula has a 2:1 ratio, meaning that ideal usage should have two parts of epoxy resin (Part A) and one part of Part B, which is hardener. This ensures that all parts will mix well together and you achieve your desired results.
One of the biggest differences between deep pour and table top epoxy is that deep pour has more of a watery consistency. The formula cures at a slower rate, and usually takes about 72 hours, when curing between 70 and 80 degrees.
DIY Tip: when doing color pours with deep pour, we recommend that you use a mechanical mixer. If you're doing a two-stage pour (pouring a base color then going over it with a clear coat), we highly recommend mixing the clear coat by hand for about a good 5-10 minutes. This leaves you with a lot less bubbles, because the epoxy will rid itself of the bubbles naturally. Less bubbles, less pain, and less work!
Mixing Epoxy Resin: Table Top
Now, let’s move on and talk about mixing table top epoxy resin. This formula is ideal for glossy finishes and seal coats. It'll always give you a clean, smooth, and crisp finish. Unlike deep pour, the table top formula is a lot thicker. You'll notice this the most when you're mixing. The best thing about table top epoxy is its 1:1 ratio- just one part of Part A is one and one part of Part B- super simple!
When using over a table or board, we recommend that mixing epoxy resin by hand. You can also mix by hand for any project that has depth in it. Just like with deep pour, there will be less bubbles, and you won't have to rely solely on your heat gun to get rid of them. The natural heat from the room temperature or the epoxy will get rid of those excess bubbles that the naked eye can't always see.
Mixing epoxy resin by hand is always a good rule of thumb when layering epoxy! If you're going to be doing a color layer, we recommend using a mixer, just as we suggested when using deep pour. Well folks, that's it for this tutorial! Now that you’ve gotten more information on our epoxy formulas and basic tips when working with them, we hope you feel a lot more comfortable switching between the two.
