ArtCast Slow Set 3:1 Epoxy Resin

Casting Resin For Slower Art Casting 

Casting Moulds can be a complicated process. One of the more difficult aspects can be pouring the resin into a mould. If you pour it too quickly or too high, there can be a lot of bubbles in the final cure. To avoid this, you can use ArtCast as it’s very low in viscosity coupled with outstanding air release, which will provide higher quality castings with minimal  to no bubbles.

ArtCast Slow Set 3:1 Resin Introduction

ArtCast is extremely hard and durable casting resin that sets in under 40 mins, allowing you to create detailed art pieces with intricate designs. 

The ArtCast 3:1 Resin is a two-part epoxy resin that sets fairly quickly, giving you no downtime when creating. ArtCast Slow is ideal for creating intricate designs and details that would be difficult to achieve with other types of resin.

To use the ArtCast 3:1 Resin, simply mix 3 parts Resin to 1 part hardener by volume together and pour into your mould. You can then use a variety of pigments or techniques to create your unique design. Once you're happy with your design, allow the resin to cure for 24 hours before removing from the mould.

The ArtCast 3:1 Resin is a great option for those who want to create detailed art pieces without having to worry about the resin setting too slow. With its 40 min gel time, this will still give you the time in creating something durable and unique.

What is Casting Resin?

Epoxy Casting Resin is of a less viscous consistency than normal epoxy coating resin. Casting resin is made explicitly for casting works, such as moulds, figurines, filling wood, deep pour, and jewellery. Unlike most coating resins, casting resin normally takes a longer time to cure and can take up to one week for demoulding. Low viscosity resin systems allow the resin to penetrate and fill even the tiniest gaps and cavities. Casting resin will normally cure a lot harder than coating resin systems.  

To use casting resin, you will need to mix the resin with a hardener. The ratio of hardener to resin will vary depending on the type of resin you are using. Once mixed, the mixture will begin to cure and harden over a set time. 

Once cured, casting resin can be polished or sanded to create a smooth, hard and glossy finish. 

Why Should I Use A Slow Curing Casting Epoxy Resin

When using very slow curing casting systems you will find demoulding may take up to 7 days and up to 14 days until the cured resin is hardened enough for sanding and polishing. Normally Slow casting epoxy resin systems are designed for very large projects such as River Tables or large volume castings (over 3 litres). So when casting smaller objects, curing times can be very long. ArtCast is designed for smaller casting that needs extreme toughness for everyday wear and tear. It's the perfect choice for intricate designs like keychains or keyrings to pyramid moulds.

Buying Casting Resin Online

In general, ArtCast Slow Casting and the process may have a lot of benefits, such as the pot life and hardness that will help create beautiful pieces that are also intricate. If you're interested in trying Resin Casting out, we highly recommend giving ArtCast Slow Set 3:1 a try. Available at Just Resin, your online art supplies store specialising in resin art.

Resin Casting Troubleshooting Tips and FAQs

If you're having trouble with Casting Resin or the Art Casting Process, here are some troubleshooting tips and FAQs that may help.

Why does my Casting have wet/uncured resin on the bottom?

A: When measuring Casting Resin, if you find the casting is curing hard but has wet tacky spots usually on bottom, this is the outcome of not enough hardener.

Why is my Casting soft & malleable after it's cured?

A: When measuring Casting Resin, if you find once resin is cured, the resin is still soft and malleable, this is the outcome of having too much hardener.

What are some possible causes of Resin going hard in the cup?

A: 1. More than 10% ink/pigment/acrylic paint to Resin ratio used *Making note that some acrylic paints or pigment additives may not be compatible and may accelerate curing due to high water content.

A: 2. Too much Part B, measuring is to be precise

A: 3. Room being too warm, 22-25 degrees is ideal

A: 4. Leaving mixed Resin in a confined space (e.g. cup, jug) will accelerate curing and could encounter aggressive exothermic reactions.

My resin isn't hardening. What could be the problem?

A: This can sometimes happen when mixing the resin and hardener together incorrectly, a little hint is to pour Part B (Hardener) first then add Part A (Resin) this to help the resin not to stick to the sides of the container or jug. Mix until Resin and Hardener become clear and free of streaks, remember to scrap the sides and stick.

Q: Why are there bubbles in my cast?

A: Bubbles can form for a few different reasons. One possibility is that you mixed the resin and hardener too thoroughly before pouring it into the mould. 

A: Another possibility is that your piece is too thick, which can trap pockets of air inside as it cures, this tends to be more of a problem in colder weather.

Why do I have bubbles on the outer edge of my casting?

A: Some moulds can sometimes trap air bubbles on the walls, this can be due to rough mould surface, or with very small high detail moulds. A little trick is to rub a mixing stick or brush across all mould wall surfaces, this will help the air bubbles detach.

My mould is sticking to the resin. What can I do?

A:There are a few things you can try to prevent this from happening. First, make sure you're using a mould release agent on your mould before pouring in the resin. It could also be the resin hasn't completely cured and maybe still malleable, allowing more time before de-moulding.

ArtCast Slow & Fast in Detail