Exercise paper and dyes to decorate resin objects.
Polyester resin is a liquid plastic that hardens once properly mixed and cured. Unlike epoxy resins, polyester resin Testament not harden completely when exposed to air. It is less expensive than epoxy versions and willingly available at Art stores. It is most Frequently used for jewellery, paper weights and other little objects.
Preparation
Handle resin moulds or any adamantine plastic container such as feed storage boxes. Choose items that Testament individual be used for resin casting or are disposable. Provided using rubber or silicone moulds, spray a mould Proceeds into the moulds beforehand.
Embrace your exertion surface before mixing or pouring the resin. Wear gloves and cache acetone on participation for prompt clean-up of any spills. Polyester resins ooze fumes, so attempt in a beefy ventilated environment or wear a ventilator mask.
Polyester resins hope for a catalyst to harden. Combine the catalyst with the resin according to manufacturer's directions. The exact measurements differ by Trade-mark. Provided using a at variance Trade-mark than common, always glance at the fresh directions beginning.
Casting
Apartment your moulds on a Apartment lodgings surface. Fill Everyone mould to the top. The resin pulls out from the sides as it hardens, forging Emigration as no problem as turning the mould upside down.
Mix dyes and pigments into the resin before pouring. Use dyes that are manufactured for the purpose of using with polyester resin.
Allow the resin to cure at room temperature and out of direct light for one to three days. Humidity affects the curing time, so expect it to take three days for humid locations. Cover the molds with an upside-down box while curing so dust and debris don't settle and cloud the resin surface.
Resin on the open side of the mold will not harden completely. It will be slightly sticky to the touch. Allow this pour to cure completely. Do a final pour with dyed or pigmented resin for the background.
Prepare porous materials like paper beforehand to eliminate air bubbles and discoloration. Coat in decoupage glue or a spray sealant and let dry.
Fill the mold one-fourth full of resin. Let gel for 20 to 30 minutes, then place the item on top. For lighter items, avoid floating by pushing the item gently onto the resin surface and allow it to cure for an additional 30 minutes to an hour. Finish filling the mold with resin.
Add a colored background behind the embedded objects. Place the objects in the gelled resin as usual but only fill so the object is just covered on the second pour. Avoid touching it and leaving fingerprints behind. Use a resin spray or curing agent on the sticky side to harden it and to disguise small scuffs or scratches.
