How To: Measure and Mix Correctly

Anyone that has worked with resin will tell you that the most important part of working with epoxy resin is making sure you measure and mix correctly. Without the correct ratios and mixing techniques, can lead to a number of issues with resin when it comes to curing and the overall finish.

Correct Ratios: Now, it is very important to know the ratio of the resin system you are using and differentiate between Parts by Volume or Parts by Weight. Every resin brand will have different ratios and it is important to follow the instructions provided. If the resin is for example; 1:1 parts by Volume, this means you need to measure by volume in a measuring cup and not measure 1:1 by weight on a set of scales.
For most resin systems; specifically our range of U RESIN resin systems, the densities and viscosities of both Part A and Part B will vastly differ.

If you measure a resin that is 1:1 by volume and measure it by weight, you may find your resin will end up sticky/tacky or cure soft. As the weight to volume measurements are different. Whilst the resin may still cure, it can potentially over time lead to surface issues or similar, as there is excess Part A or Part B in the mix which had nothing to initially react with.

If you are working with a Volume based resin, we recommend purchasing measuring cups with calibrated measurements similar to the Measuring Jugs available in our store.

When measuring, start with your Part A and reading from an eye level with your measuring jug, pour your desired amount of Part A. Once you have poured the necessary amount of Part A allow it to settle slight, then pour your Part B to the desired amount.

Pro Tip: If you need to work out how much resin to use for a project, use our Resin Calculators.

For example: You need 400 mls of resin total for your project and you are using a 1:1 by Volume system (like our U RESIN Liquid Glass resin system). Begin with pouring the Part A to 200ml in the measuring cup, then following with the Part B until you reach 400 mls.

If you are working with a resin that is measured by weight, ensure you have a set of scales available. For example; if your resin system is 100:100 by Weight, and you need 400 mls, you will weight out 200g of Part A and then 200g of Part B.

Correct Mixing: Mixing is also extremely important to the resin process, dare we might say THE most important step when it comes to resin art.

Once you have your Part A and Part B measured together, begin by mixing your container. We recommend using a container that is at least 20% larger than the volume you are mixing, to ensure you have ample mixing room and avoid any possible spillages.
If you are a complete beginner the best way to mix is starting with a 2 minute mix, scraping the sides and bottom of the container. Then after the 2 minutes, transfer the entire volume of resin into a clean new measuring jug, scraping as much as possible out, and continue to mix for an additional 1 minute. This will avoid any unmixed material contaminating your resin piece from the initial measuring jug. This is a common mixing method used throughout a number of industries.

Our (almost) fool proof method of mixing is to spend 1 minute mixing the contents of the container in a clockwise, anti-clockwise or figure-eight motion. Then 1 minute scraping the sides and edges of the measuring jug, and the final 1 minute scraping along the bottom of the measuring jug. This will ensure you have a well-combined mix.

The best way to tell if you have mixed well is the next day. Once the resin has hardened and you go to clean your measuring jug, you should be able to peel the resin out in 1 clean piece. Meaning your measuring jug can then be reused for additional pours. If you find the resin is not easily coming out or that there are sticky spots throughout the container, it means you have not mixed well enough.

For a full step-by-step on how we recommend mixing, see our YouTube Channel here: https://youtu.be/InkDvY65EXM