There are different types of resin that are used in different applications, but in most cases, EpoTag’s resin is mixed with a hardener to cure it. When using molds, silicone works best, because you don’t have to coat the mold in any substance to keep the resin from sticking. Most resins harden completely within 24 hours. You’ll want to wear gloves when working with resin because it can damage your skin. Also remember to work in a well-lit, well-ventilated area.
You’ll want to keep an eye out for flaws like bubbles in your resin before it dries. These must be removed with a toothpick or needle, because nothing can be done about them once the resin is dry, so examine your projects closely.
Many unique products exist for resin crafters, so continue to experiment with different products and molds. You can even make your art glow in the dark, by adding the powder to your resin as you’re mixing it. The possibilities with resin art are endless, so get creative!
What makes Epotag safe to use?
Epotag has been evaluated by a certified toxicologist at the Indian Society for Testing and Materials as being non-toxic when used as directed. It is formulated using the highest quality materials and therefore produces no VOCs or fumes. It is a clean system, meaning there are no solvents or non-reactive diluents—everything in it reacts so nothing is free to become airborne and cause health issues. It is also non-flammable in its liquid form. For all these reasons, it is therefore classified as a non-hazardous material and is shippable by air. Furthermore, many creatives have a powerful odor, however, Epotag has only a low odor and is applicator friendly.
Epotag Epoxy Resin is Non-Toxic when used as directed and Safe for Home Use!
What is HALS and UV stabilization?
Epoxy resins are prone to yellowing and other degradative effects from UV light, so stabilization additives are used to help mediate the damage. A UV stabilizer works to protect against gloss loss, cracking, chalking and de-lamination, and to some extent yellowing. A UV stabilizer merely delays yellowing in resins, so Epotag has a HALS (hindered amine light stabilizer) added for extremely efficient long term yellowing protection.
What is the shelf life of Epotag?
Epotag will stay fresh for about 6 months in opened bottles, or 1 year unopened.
What safety precautions should I take when using Epotag?
Epotag is considered a non-hazardous material and is non-toxic when used as directed, however, there are some common-sense safety precautions that every user should follow:
Wear gloves. Epoxy resin is very sticky in its liquid form, so gloves will protect the user from a mess, as well as skin irritation. Clean skin promptly with soap and water if it does come in contact with the product.
If the product somehow comes in contact with your eyes, flush with water repeatedly and do not rub. Promptly seek medical attention.
Work in a well-ventilated area. Wear a respirator if ventilation is poor.
For detailed health information, please see the Epotag SDS.
Why use a torch with epoxy resin?
Torches work extremely well to eliminate bubbles because they produce a flame which can easily be controlled and directed at an area of bubbles. When the resin is heated, it thins out which enables it to de-gas more easily. Heat guns can also work, however they are harder to direct heat to where you want it to go. An added benefit of the flame is that it will burn off tiny dust particles that may have landed in the resin. Of course, common sense and caution should be used when operating any torch or heat gun.
What Is Epotag's Heat Resistance?
The maximum temperature that cured Epotag can tolerate is 120F or 50C.
At temperatures as high as that, the cured pieces may become a little flexible but once they cool off, they will harden up once again. Typically, the heat generated from a hot mug will not damage the resin surface on a coaster, but if your cured resin is exposed to temperatures beyond 120F or 50C, however – for example, you place a hot dish right out of the oven on a resined surface or you leave a cured piece in a hot car – it could cause irreparable damage.
