Dive into the vibrant world of resin canvas art with us! It's a mesmerizing craft that can transform simple materials into stunning, abstract masterpieces. If you've ever wondered about the process behind these captivating pieces, you're in the right place. We're here to unravel the magic and simplicity of using resin to create your resin canvas art.
What You Need to Resin on Canvas
Before applying the resin to the canvas, ensure you have all the necessary supplies.
- Clear, non-toxic epoxy resins (the best type of resin for canvas and other mediums of artwork in general)
- Waterproof container for water bath
- Paper towels for cleanup
- Protective masking tape or painter's tape
- Plastic to protect your workshop surface (shower curtains work great)
- Elevation tools (e.g., small plastic pyramids, cups, or building blocks)
- A level
- Chemical-resistant nitrile gloves (necessary)
- Transparent plastic measuring containers or cups
- Mixing stick (silicone is preferred because it's non-stick)
- Flat tool for spreading resin (plastic scraper or rubber spatula)
- Heat gun or small torch to remove resin bubbles
- Toothpicks for detail work
- Compressed air for dust removal from artwork (optional)
How to Apply Resin on Canvas
The first step is to set up your workspace. To cover your table, lay down a sheet of plastic.
- Set Up Your Workspace
Lay your plastic sheet across your work surface to protect it – a vinyl shower curtain works excellently. You can clean it up afterward by wiping it off with acetone, such as isopropyl alcohol. Or if you let it sit overnight, scrape it off the next day to the best of your ability – it should be pretty easy to break off. Have a butane torch ready for bubble removal and choose hard plastic tools that are easy to clean.
Next, set up your dust cover to protect your freshly applied canvas piece from dust, debris, and other contaminants. Make sure the canvas is completely dry and dust-free. Now, it's time to resin.
- Tape the Edges
If you plan to apply resin to the sides of your canvas, tape off the bottom edge to catch any drips. If you're working with stretched canvas, place a cardboard insight underneath to prevent sagging, and elevate your piece on a set of plastic stands to allow excess resin to drip off. Double-check to make sure it's perfectly horizontal with your level.
- Mix the Resin
Ideally, you want to work in a slightly above-room-temperature environment, somewhere between 75-85°F (24-30°C). Measure equal parts of resin and hardener by volume, using our resin ratio calculator to determine the amount needed. Wear nitrile gloves and mix thoroughly for at least 3 minutes, scraping sides and bottom to ensure a complete blend. If you plan to mix colors, check out our guide on how to color epoxy resin.
- Apply & Spread Evenly
Pour the mixed resin onto the center of your canvas and spread it evenly with a plastic tool, working towards the edges. If desired, carefully coat the sides using the spreader and gloved hands.
To finish things up, use a torch to remove bubbles by moving it gently across the surface, just 3-4 inches away from the surface. Remove any remaining bubbles or dust with a toothpick.
- Let Sit & Display
Cover the piece with a clean, dust-free container and allow it to cure for 24 hours. Clean your tools with isopropyl alcohol or peel off any dried resin from plastic items.
To display it, keep it out of direct sunlight. To clean it, use a soft, dry microfiber cloth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you reinforce a canvas for resin?
You can reinforce a canvas for resin with a cardboard insert, which typically applies to any canvas piece larger than 12x12 inches.
How do you prepare the canvas for resin painting?
Initiate by covering your workspace with a tarp to contain the mess. Next, place your canvas on raised supports such as plastic cups, allowing for over-edge resin drip in the creative process.
How to dry resin on canvas?
Remember to place your resin art in a warm environment to enhance curing. Higher room temperatures escalate the hardening process of your resin, ensuring a smoother and faster drying time.