How To Work With Resin In A Heat Wave!

Resin Tips For A Heatwave!

Ok, so it has been super-hot here in Washington. At one point my thermometer on my studio table was hitting 94F while it was over 100 outside. That may seem mild if you are reading this from warmer states/countries but here in WA we are not used to this intensity for days in a row.

So, while I was limited on getting into the studio for the last 4 days, I wanted to put together this list in case these warmer days happen again. I really believe that there is always a way and call me stubborn, but I do not like it when the weather tells me I can’t create in the way I want to LOL!

So how do you work with resin in hot conditions? As you know, each epoxy resin has an ideal working temperature that the manufacturer gives you that backs up what they recommend is the working time and cure time of their resin. It will most likely be around the 75F range. So if you don’t have a clue how warm your room/space/studio is when your pouring I recommend you invest in one of these:

If you know its going to be a lot warmer than usual because of seasonal change or a freak heatwave then the first thing you can do is mix up a small amount (say 1oz) and time it on your phone to see how long it takes to gel and become too taffy-like to work with. Heat will accelerate the resin’s cure time so when you do a small test you can have a rough idea of how different your working time will be.

Another thing you can do is if like me your resin creative space is in the garage or space that does not have a controlled environment by AC you can bring your materials inside where it is cool and then take it to your space when you are ready to work. Your cure time will also still be shorter, but your working time should be extended slightly.

Lastly, you can skip any projects that require pouring for a few days and finish up some projects that do not require mixing resin. I know, probably not what you wanted to hear. But heat doesn’t affect sanding, and if anything, it might make it easier as your resin pieces will be softer because its so warm!

Let's Do A Quick Recap: 

1. Test your working time when its hotter than usual with a small 1oz mix

2. Bring your resin inside or to a space that is cooler until you are ready to pour

3. Take a break from mixing and pouring and finish up some projects :) 

Do you have anything you would add to this list? Let me know in the comments!