Resin has become a go-to material for crafters, artists, and DIY enthusiasts alike due to its versatility and durability. Whether you're creating stunning artworks, intricate jewelry pieces, or personalized coasters, getting the right amount of resin is crucial to your project's success. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to calculate the amount of resin you need for your next project along with a few tips and tricks used for hard to calculate volumes
Understanding Resin Types
Resin typically comes in two parts: resin and hardener, which need to be mixed in specific ratios to initiate the curing process. Different types of resin (epoxy, polyester, polyurethane) have varying mixing ratios and application characteristics, so always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for precise details.
ONLINE RESIN CALCULATOR
Please note the calculators above should only be used as a guide for measuring your volume required.
Amounts shown are an approximate total liters required of both Part A + Part B.
Step-by-Step Calculation Method
1. Measure Your Project Dimensions:
- Area: For flat surfaces (like coasters or tabletops), measure the length and width in millimeters.
- Volume: For three-dimensional objects (like molds or sculptures), measure the Length, Width, Height in millimeters.
2. Determine Depth of Resin:
- Resin depth refers to how thick you want the resin layer to be. Measure this in millimeters for best results.
- Example: If making coasters and you want a resin depth of 10mm, note this measurement.
3. Calculate Surface Area or Volume:
- Surface Area (for flat surfaces): Area (length × width)
- Volume (for three-dimensional objects) Volume (length × width × height)
4. Apply the Resin Depth Factor:
- Multiply the surface area or volume by the desired resin depth.
- This gives you the total volume of resin needed for your project.
The formulation is length × average width × depth.
The formulation must take place in millimetres for best results.
For example, 1200mm (length) × 250mm (width) × 20 mm (depth) = 6,000,000.
This number is then divided by 1 million.
For example, 6,000,000÷ 1000000 = 6 litres needed.
5. Account for Wastage:
- It's prudent to factor in extra resin (typically 10%) to account for losses due to spillage, trapped air bubbles, cracks and holes and excess that may be needed for complete coverage. This isn't required, but its always best to have a little more then a little less!
Practical Example:
Let's say you're making a set of coasters with the following dimensions:
- Each coaster is 100 mm by 100 mm.
- Desired resin depth is 10mm
Calculations:
- Surface Area of one coaster = 100mm× 100mm = 10,000 square mm
- Volume of resin needed = Total Surface Area of 1 coaster is 10,000mm × 10 (Resin Depth) = 100,000 square mm
With 4 Coasters required, you would times your result by 4 which is 400,000mm cube. This is then divided by 1,000,000. (400,000 / 1,000,000= 0.04L).
Conclusion
Mastering resin calculations ensures you have just the right amount of material for your project, minimizing waste and ensuring a successful outcome. By following these steps and considering the specifics of your project, you'll be well-equipped to handle resin projects of any size or complexity with confidence. Happy crafting!
Remember, precision in measurement and calculation ensures your resin projects turn out beautifully, making your creative visions a reality!
TIPS AND TRICKS
If numbers really aren't you're thing, there are other ways in which you can get the most accurate measurement without having to waste your resin.
Rice Pour dried rice into your mould or voided space where the resin is going to go. This will allow you to fill the hole completely and pour back into a measuring cup without any liquids being used. Once the rice is in the measuring cup, look at the Liters required for an accurate estimate.
Water: If it doesn't effect your project, pour water into your mould and then back into a measuring cup. This too gives an accurate measurement.
HAIL MARY: If you just can't work it out, we suggest measuring the best you can, and having another mould or piece next to you that you can pour your excess into without wasting any resin.