QA

Question: How Do You Smooth Epoxy Tumblers

Why does the epoxy on my tumbler bumpy?

This problem can be caused by anything floating/falling into your resin while it cures, resulting in imperfections in the surface. If you are experiencing imperfections that look more like domed bumps in the resin, skip down to #4.

Why is my epoxy not smooth on my tumbler?

Some of these common issues are: Fisheyes or divots. Fisheyes or divots are generally caused when there is not enough resin on the surface of the project for the resin to self-level. To fix this issue, you will want to ensure you add enough resin to self-level and completely cover your surface.

Do you have to sand between coats of epoxy on tumbler?

💡TIP: Remember: whenever your resin is dry, you need to sand before you apply a second coat to ensure the two layers bond together. If you don’t sand, you run the risk of the two layers eventually delaminating.

How many times do you epoxy a tumbler?

Our crafters wonder typically how many coats of epoxy is enough for their tumbler. It does depend on what you’re creating, but the average is 2-3 coats. To properly seal all the layers beneath, we recommend using a topcoat of your resin.

How long does it take for epoxy to dry on a tumbler?

Let The Tumbler Cure: Leaving the motor running, allow the cup to continue turning until the resin is dry to the touch, approximately 18-24 hours later. Remove the tumbler from the cup turner and remove the tape. Allow the cup to continue curing – it will be fully cured at the 72 hour mark.

What causes fisheyes in epoxy?

Substrate contamination is the most common problem that causes fish eyes and pin holes in epoxy seal coats. Dust, dirt, wax, silicones, even the oil from your fingers when touching the part prior to sealing with epoxy will deter epoxy resins from laying flat and curing with a perfectly smooth surface.

Can you buff epoxy tumblers?

Hard curing resins: Polish with a buffing wheel and compound Let the buff spin, use it to pick up compound, then press onto the resin. You can use a Dremel tool or flex shaft for small projects like charms, but a large buff makes quick work of polishing something larger like a bracelet.

Can you sand a tumbler after epoxy?

Sanding and Adding Vinyl to a Glitter Epoxy Tumbler When the tumbler is finished spinning, the epoxy will likely still be somewhat sticky. You can take it off the tumbler turner and let it dry for several more hours until it’s no longer sticky. Use 180-220 grit sandpaper to sand down he glitter tumbler.

How do you remove scratches from an epoxy tumbler?

Use the sandpaper to remove deeper scratches in the epoxy. Sand the scratched surface with a back-and-forth motion, following the line of the scratch until you grind down the edges of the scratches to create a smooth surface. Sand until the scratch is no longer visible in the epoxy covering.

Can you pour epoxy over cured epoxy?

Can I put another coat of epoxy over cured epoxy? Yes. Since the epoxy has cured a chemical bond is not possible so what is called a mechanical bond is needed. This simply means that the cured epoxy has to be lightly sanded before the next coat is applied: the first coat should have a matt, almost white, surface.

Why is my epoxy repelling?

Bare spots, or voids, happen when something sitting on the surface of your artwork and repels the ArtResin, preventing it from adhering. It could be silicon residue or even something like lotion or natural oils from your hands that transferred onto your piece when you handled it.

When can I apply a second coat of epoxy on a tumbler?

Depending on the epoxy you’ve chosen to work with, you’ll have to wait between 4 and 24 hours before applying your second coat. Be sure to read your directions very thoroughly before beginning your project.

How long should epoxy dry before sanding?

Tip: The epoxy resin must be really dry before sanding. You should therefore allow a waiting period of at least 48 hours before processing. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, as there are resins that take even longer to harden completely.

Is one coat of epoxy enough?

A durable floor will require at least two coats of epoxy, which must cure overnight between coats. “There is no such thing as a good one-coat job,” says Parker. Once the final coat is down, it’s best to wait at least three days before allowing a vehicle into the garage; full curing can take up to two weeks.

Can you use a hair dryer on epoxy?

Option 3: Turning a hair dryer into an epoxy dryer If there’s one thing resin bubbles can’t stand, it’s the heat. You can actually use a hair dryer to pop bubbles; however, the heat a hairdryer provides is less potent than that of a butane or propane torch.

How long should you wait between coats of epoxy?

When using epoxy, it can be a helpful process to add a second layer, but you want to make sure to follow the correct procedures. With most coating epoxies, if you are trying to build up to your desired thickness, it is recommended to pour your second coat once the first coat is tacky to the touch (usually 4-6 hours).

Will epoxy set in cold weather?

Some resin/hardener combinations are formulated to cure in temperatures as low as 35°F. However, simply using a hardener that cures in colder temperatures does not guarantee dependable bonds. Epoxy can be used at cold temperatures but must be handled and applied with techniques adapted to cold temperatures.

How do you fix fisheye in epoxy?

Lightly sand the existing epoxy with 120-150 grit. Care should be taken not to cut through the stain. Apply another seal coat of epoxy using an 1/8″ nap foam roller, working to fill in the craters. Allow the epoxy to cure hard, sand entire application flat, and re-coat to finish.

How do you fix divots in epoxy?

Whether your divots occurred during the pouring process of your countertops, or afterwards due to a soft cure, the solution is always to pour another coat of epoxy. You can pour directly over the previous epoxy pour within 24 hours of the first pour.