August 29, 2023 2 min read
**Safety Precautions:**
1. Always work in a well-ventilated area.
2. Wear protective gloves and safety glasses.
3. Avoid contact with skin or eyes. If contact occurs, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice.
4. Keep out of reach of children.
**Materials Needed:**
1. 1 to 1 Table Top Epoxy Resin and Hardener
2. Mixing container (plastic or silicone)
3. Stir stick (wooden or plastic)
4. Measuring cups or scales (for accurate measurement)
5. Plastic spreader or foam brush
6. Torch or heat gun (to remove air bubbles)
7. Clean rags or paper towels
8. Isopropyl alcohol (for cleaning and removing spills)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preparation:**
a. Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free from dust or contaminants.
b. If needed, sand the surface with 220-grit sandpaper for better adhesion. Wipe away dust after sanding.
2. **Measuring:**
a. Measure equal parts of epoxy resin and hardener. Always use a 1:1 ratio by Volume. (Do Not mix 1:1 using a scale)
3. **Mixing:**
a. Pour the two components into a clean mixing container.
b. Mix thoroughly for at least 3-5 minutes. Ensure the sides and bottom are scraped while mixing.
c. Be careful to mix gently to avoid introducing excessive air bubbles.
4. **Application:**
a. Pour the mixed epoxy onto the center of the surface.
b. Use a plastic spreader or foam brush to spread the epoxy evenly across the surface, ensuring complete coverage.
c. If coating a vertical edge, apply the epoxy in a thin layer to prevent excessive dripping.
5. **Removing Air Bubbles:**
a. After application, inspect the surface for air bubbles.
b. Pass a torch or heat gun over the surface, keeping it a few inches away. The heat will help release trapped air bubbles. Do not linger in one spot to avoid burning or overheating the epoxy.
6. **Curing:**
a. Allow the epoxy to cure for the duration specified on the product label, typically 48-72 hours for a full cure. Avoid touching the surface during this time.
b. The epoxy will be tack-free in a few hours but will reach its maximum hardness after the full curing time.
7. **Cleanup:**
a. Clean tools and spills with isopropyl alcohol or acetone.
b. Remove any uncured epoxy from skin using soap and warm water.
**Pro Tips:**
- Always conduct a small test before coating a large surface.
- For a thicker finish, apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat, allowing each layer to partially cure before applying the next.
- Temperature and humidity can affect the curing time and consistency of the epoxy. Follow product recommendations for optimal conditions.