10 Tips For How To Get Bubbles Out Of Resin (Updated for 2024)

Whether you're crafting stunning jewelry, designing custom furniture, or creating one of a kind art, epoxy resin offers a versatile medium to bring your ideas to life. However, anyone who has worked with epoxy knows one of the most common challenges is dealing with bubbles. These tiny, unwelcome intruders can mar the surface of your masterpiece, leaving it less than perfect. This article will guide you through how to get bubbles out of resin, ensuring a flawless finish for your projects. Let's get bubble free!

Understanding Epoxy is the Key for Removing Bubbles From Resin

Before diving into the solutions, it's important to understand why bubbles form in resin in the first place. When resin and hardener are mixed together, the stirring action naturally introduces air into the mixture. Additionally, pouring resin into molds or onto surfaces can trap air, especially if the resin is being poured over porous materials. This is why you tend to see more bubbles when working with florals and unsealed wood. They use to be live things so no wonder there's trapped air in there waiting to get out. 

Learn how to properly use our epoxy resin products 👇

• How to use Table Top Epoxy

• How to use Deep Pour Epoxy

• How to use UV Art Resin

How to Get Bubbles Out of Resin - Top 10 Tips: 

1. Start with the Right Environment 

The battle against bubbles begins even before you mix your resin. Working in an environment that’s too cold can increase the viscosity of your resin, making it harder to mix and more prone to trapping air. Aim for a workspace that's around 75°F (24°C), as epoxy resin tends to have a lower viscosity at this temperature, making it easier to work with and less likely to form bubbles.

2. Mix Slowly and Thoughtfully

When it comes to mixing your resin and hardener, patience is your ally. Rapid mixing can introduce air into the mixture, leading to bubbles. Mix slowly and deliberately, scraping the sides and bottom of your mixing container to ensure an even blend without whipping air into the mixture. This methodical approach might take a bit longer, but it’s worth it for the bubble-free result you're looking for. 

3. Let the Mixture Rest

After mixing, give your epoxy resin a little rest. Allowing the mixture to sit for a few minutes lets many of the bubbles that have been introduced rise to the surface and pop on their own. This is a simple yet effective way to reduce the number of bubbles without any extra effort...just a little patience ;) 

4. Apply Heat to Directly Remove Bubbles From Your Resin

One of the most effective ways to get bubbles out of resin is the application of heat. A heat gun or a torch can be your best friend in the quest for that bubble-free finish. Gently sweeping over the surface of the mixed epoxy with a heat source causes the bubbles to expand and pop. This method not only helps with surface bubbles but can also draw out those lurking just below the surface. Remember to keep the heat source moving to avoid overheating or damaging your resin. 

5. Pour in Layers

For thicker pours, consider applying your epoxy in layers rather than all at once. Pouring in layers allows bubbles to escape more easily and can prevent deep seated bubbles from getting trapped. They are a lot harder to deal with once the resin has started to cure. Allow each layer to partially cure before adding the next.

6. Choose the Right Resin

The type of resin you use definitely matters! Not all resins are created equal, and using the right resin for the right application makes a huge difference. Depending on your project, you may want a formulation with a longer open time and a higher pour depth, giving those pesky bubbles more opportunity to rise to the surface and pop. Investing in a high-quality resin can make a significant difference in the outcome of your projects. 

Here's a quick rundown on which Promise Epoxy product to use depending on your application:

• Table Top Epoxy - the go-to for surface coats, shallow pours such as coasters or keychains, and sealing projects for a high gloss finish. This can be used for almost anything with under 1/2" pour depth.

• Deep Pour Epoxy - the best option for casting, river pours, and floral preservation. If you are planning to do a pour with a depth over 1/2" we recommend using Deep Pour Epoxy. 

• UV Art Resin - the ideal epoxy resin for ocean art, tumblers, wall art, and anything clear with a pour depth under 1/2". This formula had added UV inhibitors to maintain that yellow-free look for as long as possible. 

7. Use a Vacuum Chamber or Pressure Pot to Get Bubbles Out of Resin

For the more serious resin artist, especially those making intricate pieces such as resin dice, a vacuum chamber or a pressure pot can be an invaluable tool. A vacuum chamber helps remove air from the resin before pouring, while a pressure pot compresses any remaining bubbles to the point where they become invisible in an already poured project. Both tools are a great investment if you're looking to get crystal clear results every single time. 

8. Seal Porous Materials First

Working with wood or other porous materials? Sealing them before pouring your resin is crucial, especially when doing a river pour. Applying a thin coat of epoxy as a sealant on the wood will prevent air from escaping into your river pour, eliminating a common cause of bubbles. Let this sealant layer cure before proceeding with your main pour. Remember, a little bit of work upfront can be a great way to keep bubbles out of resin project from the start.

9. Practice and Patience

Like any skill, mastering epoxy resin takes practice and patience. Each project comes with its own set of challenges, and learning to anticipate and mitigate issues like getting bubbles out of resin will become second nature as you gain more experience. Practice these different methods regularly until you find the one that works best for you!

10. Keep Learning

Always be on the lookout for new tips, techniques, and materials. Every resin artist has their own way of doing things, and you will too! The world of epoxy resin is ever-evolving, with new products and methods being developed all the time. Stay curious, and don't be afraid to experiment or ask for help. 

You're 1 Minute Recap

While bubbles in epoxy resin can be a nuisance, they're not an insurmountable problem. With the right preparation, tools, and techniques, you can learn how to get bubbles out of resin and achieve beautifully clear and bubble-free resin creations. Remember, every project is a learning opportunity, and each challenge you overcome brings you one step closer to mastering the art of working with epoxy resin. So, gear up, get creative, and let your projects shine bubble-free!