2 part epoxy Q&A

Q: My epoxy dries sticky or rubbery. What's wrong?
A: Either the proportions of epoxy and hardener were not correct (2:1 ratio) or they were not mixed thoroughly. Be sure to mix in one container then put into second container and mix some more.

Q: My epoxy is not perfectly clear, it has a slight amber color. What's wrong?
A: Nothing. Our epoxy is known as "water clear" and this means it has a very, very slight amber hue. For most projects you will never even notice it.

Q: How long do I have to work with the epoxy once it is mixed?
A: Our epoxy has a pot life of about 30 minutes. After that if you disturb it, it will be like a gelatinous blob.

Q: How long does the epoxy take to harden?
A: To fully harden it takes 24 hours. However you can usually take it out of the mold in 12 hours but it might be a little soft. You can add layers and embedments to it after 3-5 hours but if you poke at it or push it at this time it will dent.

Q: Is the epoxy safe to use?
A: Our epoxy is generally considered one of the safest to use and is classified only as a mild skin and eye irritant to people sensitive to it. However some people have allergic reactions to all epoxies and they should not come in contact with any epoxy products.

Q: If I get epoxy on my skin how should I clean it off?
A: With good old soap and water. Nothing else is needed.

Q: If I spill the epoxy how do I clean it up?
A: While it is best to put down wax paper to make cleanup as easy as throwing the paper away if you do get it on another surface it's may require Acetone or Lacquer thinner to remove it. If it is on something sensitive like wood then just use soap and water to remove it the best you can.

Q: Will the epoxy have air bubbles?
A: While our epoxy is self degassing it is possible for a stray bubble to show up on occasion. Our in house tests showed a bubble one out of 12 times it was used and most of those were off in a corner where they were barely visible.

UV Jewelry Glaze Q&A

It is advisable to always clean your item with isopropyl alcohol before doming to remove oils and other contaminates that may prevent proper curing

Q: Can I use standard ink jet printers to make domed labels?
A: The inks and paper tend to have chemical reactions with the epoxy preventing it from curing. However we now sell a clear adhesive backed vinyl that can be applied to ink-jet prints to allow them to be domed. Also we have a liquid sealer called inkseal that can be applied where the vinyl is not convenient.

Q: Can I use a color laser printer to make domed items?
A: We have tested several products printed with color laser printers and so far a few have worked and some need sealing (see above question). This does not mean that there might not be some paper or product that may not work.

Q: My epoxy hardened on top but not the bottom. I can slide it off and am left with a sticky layer. What's wrong?
A: Your item had some sort of chemical on the surface that prevented the epoxy from hardening. This happens with some metals because they use oils in manufacturing. Simply clean the item with isopropyl alcohol before doming.

Q: My item did not cure completely, the top is sticky. Why?
A: There are 3 possible reasons for this. The first reason is epoxy contamination. Possibly the item was printed with an ink jet printer. Second, the item was either not in the curing zone of the UV oven or was not left long enough in the UV light. Last, be sure the epoxy is not out of date.

Q: I am having curing problems, how can I find out if it's the epoxy?
A: Simple, put a drop or two of epoxy on any inert item (plastic spoon, coin or plastic top from a fountain drink) and try and cure it. If it cures then your epoxy is fine.

Q: Is it possible to over cure the epoxy? What happens if I leave it under the light too long?
A: No, you cannot over cure the epoxy and leaving it under the light too long will have no ill effects.

Q: My epoxy is out of date but it seems to be working. Is it OK to keep using it?
A: Yes, properly stored epoxy may function perfectly well after the use by date. If it's still working keep using it.

Q: How can I tell if I my epoxy is too old and should be replaced?
A: It will give you hints, it may start being less clear and have a green or blue cast to the finished items. Also it may not cure completely.

Q: Can the epoxy be used for outdoor items?
A: The epoxy can start to yellow if used outdoors 7/24. Because of this we do not recommend it for use on cars or other outdoor items. It is OK to use for items that will get limited exposure outdoors. As an example we have domed name tags that are worn by employees at a restaurant that has outdoor seating in sunny California. They have had their badges going on 5 years and they still look great, these are outdoors at least a few hours a day 5 days a week.

Q: is the epoxy scratch proof?
A: nothing is scratch proof, however, our epoxy is extremely scratch resistant. It can be used on key chains with no problem.