None of our products require a UV light to cure. Our products are two part epoxy resins that will heat up and cure when mixed together. Ultra UV product line has advanced UV inhibitors to help keep the coating clear when exposed to ultraviolet rays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most Common Questions
Do you ship internationally?
At this time, KSRESIN is a US only company. We do not ship outside of the US.
Which product do I need for tumblers?
Both Liquid Stone and Liquid Art will work great for coating tumblers. The choice comes down to personal preference.
Liquid Stone - Shorter working time (15-30 minutes), thicker viscosity, cures slightly harder, 75-80F ideal curing temperature
Liquid Art - Longer working time (45+ minutes), medium viscosity, 65-80F ideal curing temperature
Preparation with Stainless Steel is very important. We always recommend sanding the stainless steel surface with 220grit sandpaper to help the epoxy resin adhere to the surface. Be sure to clean the sanded surface with isopropyl alcohol to remove any debris before applying the epoxy resin.
LIQUID CAST WILL NOT WORK FOR COATING TUMBLERS, IT IS A CASTING RESIN.
What is the temperature resistance?
All of our products are temperature resistant up to 475F when fully cured. Be sure to follow our instructions closely to ensure the best possible results.
What is the required temperature for curing?
Liquid Art and Liquid Cast will have the best results at 65-80F curing temperatures.
Liquid Stone will have the best results when curing at 75-80F curing temperatures.
It is important to have consistent temperature throughout the entire curing process. Warmer temperatures will ensure greatest durability of cured product.
How long does the epoxy need to cure?
Liquid Art and Liquid Stone will be dry to touch within 12 hours of pouring the mixture onto your desired surface. Allow 3* days for a full cure.
Liquid Cast curing times are dependent on total volume and depth of pour, but in most cases the same times can be applied.
* Curing times may be longer if temperatures are inconsistent or below 65F.
Will this product work in high humidity?
Humidity needs to be under 50%. If you are close to 50%, you can add a dehumidifier to help lower the humidity level in your pouring/curing area. You may have success with higher humidity levels, but are much more prone to issues.
Does this epoxy have any odor or release VOC?
Our epoxy is Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) free, but does have a very minor odor that will dissipate during the curing process.
Does KSRESIN have a strong odor?
Our products have a very minor odor, but odor is quite subjective. We have received many emails claiming our products have less odor than many of our competitors.
What PPE should I use?
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is important when working with chemicals, we recommend the following.
- Nitrile gloves
- Eye protection
- Old clothing, lab coat, apron
- Respirator*
* Respirator should be worn in work areas with insufficient ventilation. It is never a bad thing to wear a respirator as there is a minor odor and some may be sensitive to this.
How do I measure KSRESIN products?
All of our products are to be measured by volume at a 1:1 ratio. We recommend mixing at least 1oz at a time. Adding too much hardener into your mixture will cause issues with curing.
Is KSRESIN FDA Compliant?
Our products are FDA compliant, though we personally do not recommend using an epoxy resin coating to replace a serving tray, cutting board, or coating the inside of a cup.
Liquid Art / Liquid Art Ultra UV
What is the difference between Liquid Art and Liquid Art Ultra UV?
Epoxy resins are known to yellow when exposed to ultraviolet rays for a prolonged period of time.
Liquid Art Ultra UV contains advanced hindered amine light stabilizers to ensure that your coating resists ultraviolet degradation. Liquid Art Ultra UV outperforms nearly all competitors products that we have tested when exposed to ultraviolet rays for a prolonged period of time.
Liquid Art does contain UV inhibitors, but Ultra UV outperforms it significantly. If you are concerned that the project you coat with epoxy resin will come in contact with UV rays, we highly recommend using Ultra UV.
Is Liquid Art the best epoxy resin for tumblers?
Liquid Art / Liquid Art Ultra UV are our most popular coating epoxy resins commonly used for coating stainless steel tumblers. There are some people who prefer Liquid Stone as it is a thicker viscosity and has a shorter working time, but overall Liquid Art is the most popular.
Is Liquid Art thick or thin?
Liquid Art is a medium viscosity epoxy resin around 5-6,000 CPS.
Does Liquid Art work in molds?
Liquid Art can be used in molds, though it was formulated as a coating resin and does not have comparable air release to Liquid Cast. For molds at a depth under 1/4" it will work fine.
What is the ratio of Resin to Hardener?
Liquid Art is measured at a 1:1 ratio by volume, meaning 1 ounce of Resin requires 1 ounce of Hardener. It is very important to be as precise as possible! Mixing small amounts under 1 ounce may have mixed results due to the simplicity of an incorrect mixture.
How long do I need to wait between coats?
You can pour a second coat as quickly as 4 hours if the first coat is still tacky. If it is not tacky, we recommend waiting 24 hours and lightly sanding the first coat by hand with 220 grit sandpaper. Do NOT use an orbital or palm sander as you can easily over sand the edges and sides revealing the substrate underneath.
What is the required curing temperature?
This product should be used in 65-80° Fahrenheit. That includes the products temperature, the surface temperature of your substrate, as well as the ambient air. You can measure the product and surface temperature with an infrared thermometer.
Is this epoxy scratch resistance?
Yes it is scratch resistant, however it is not scratch proof.
Liquidy Split / Liquidy Split Ultra UV
Can this product be used as a top coat?
Both Liquidy Split™ and Liquidy Split Ultra UV™ can be used as a top coat. If you are concerned about ultraviolet degradation of the coating, be sure to use Liquidy Split Ultra UV™ as it will outperform the regular formula significantly.
Can I cast with Liquidy Split?
Liquidy Split™ is a coating resin and should not be poured over 1/8" depth. It heats up and cures significantly faster than our other products and will not allow enough time for trapped air to release.
Does Liquidy Split have a strong odor?
Liquidy Split™ hardener, like all of our hardeners, will have a minor odor. The resin should be nearly odorless. In comparison to other available fast setting epoxy resins, the smell should be extremely minimal. Keep in mind that smell is subjective and may not be the same to everyone.
How long should I wait before applying a second coat?
Liquidy Split™ can be recoated as soon as 2 hours after the previous coat. The previous coat should be tacky to ensure the two mechanically bond.
How long is the working time of Liquidy Split?
Liquidy Split™ has a working time of 15 minutes at 75°F. You may experience more or less time depending on the temperature of the product and environment.
How long does it take Liquidy Split to cure?
Liquidy Split™ will be dry to touch in 3-4 hours on average, and fully cured within 24 hours at 75°F.
What is the temperature resistance of Liquidy Split?
All of our products are temperature resistant up to 475F when fully cured at the instructed temperature, humidity, and time. This includes Liquidy Split too!
Why is my coating tacky after 24 hours?
Tackiness can be caused by one of the following:
- Not mixing enough at one time. We recommend mixing a minimum of 2oz (30ml Resin : 30ml Hardener) at one time.
- Incorrect mixing ratio. Too much hardener can cause a tacky surface, when mixing small amounts this is a common occurrence. Be sure to measure as accurately as possible at a 1:1 ratio by volume.
- Product temperature, surface temperature, and work space temperature is too low during the curing process. Liquidy Split should be used in an environment of 80F+ throughout the entire curing process (24hrs) to ensure it cures hard and thoroughly.
Liquid Cast
Can I use Liquid Cast for coating tumblers?
Liquid Cast is a casting resin and is not designed to be used for coating, it will not work.
What is the ratio of Resin to Hardener?
Liquid Cast is measured at a 1:1 ratio by volume, meaning 1 ounce of Resin requires 1 ounce of Hardener. It is very important to be as precise as possible! Mixing small amounts under 1 ounce may have mixed results due to the simplicity of an incorrect mixture.
What is the required working temperature?
This product should be used in 65-80° Fahrenheit. That includes the products temperature, the surface temperature of your substrate, as well as the ambient air. You can measure the product and surface temperature with an infrared thermometer.
For larger pours it is helpful to have lower curing temperatures.
What is the maximum depth of pour?
Liquid Cast can be poured up to 2" thick per layer.
How much can I pour at once?
We do not recommend mixing/pouring more than 1 Gallon at a time.
Do I need to torch Liquid Cast?
Liquid Cast has advanced air release agents added into the product, torching is not always necessary. Most trapped air will release during the first few hours after pouring the product. If there is surface tension on the edges/bottom, you can use a stick or toothpick to help remove the trapped air.
Can I use a pressure pot?
Pressure pots are ideal for a bubble-free project, and highly recommended.
Liquid Stone / Liquid Stone Ultra UV
Should I use a dust mask or respirator when sanding epoxy?
Yes! You should always use a dust mask or respirator when sanding anything!
How long should I wait before placing hot objects on the epoxy countertops?
You need to wait a minimum of 3 days for the epoxy to fully cure before placing any hot objects directly onto the epoxy. We always suggest using hot pads and treating these countertops like any other countertops! The better you treat them, the longer they last.
How should I clean my epoxy countertops?
We recommend cleaning your epoxy countertops with soap and water. Since they are anti-microbial and non-porous most things will clean off very easily. For anything else you can use your typical household cleaner.
How can I achieve a satin sheen?
A satin sheen can be achieved by sanding the epoxy starting at 220 grit - 1000 grit, then using a wax or polishing compound. It is recommended to sand by hand, especially on the edges and corners of your countertops to ensure you do not sand through the epoxy.
What is the best way to do a backsplash and have it match the rest of the countertop?
When you are pouring your countertop, place the backsplash up against the rest of the countertop. Once you have finished adding your design/coloring you can pull the backsplash piece an inch or two away from the countertop.
How should I prepare the primed MDF for pouring epoxy?
Once you have allowed the primer to dry for at LEAST 24 hours, you can lightly hand sand the primer with 220 grit sandpaper. This will provide the best chemical bond as the epoxy cures.
How long should the primer dry before applying epoxy?
You need to wait at MINIMUM 24 hours for the primer to dry. The recommended Primer, Behr Ultra Premium Plus, releases all VOC within 24 hours of being applied.
How many coats of primer should I apply?
This is dependent on if you will be pouring clear epoxy or epoxy that has pigment added. If you are pouring clear, it is best to apply two coats of primer to fully cover the MDF. If you are pouring epoxy with pigment added, one coat of Behr Ultra Premium Plus should be sufficient. Note - It is helpful to use the same color of primer as the pigment you will be adding to the epoxy (black primer, black pigment pour).
How should I prepare the MDF for priming?
After your countertops have been built, sand the edges and top of the MDF with 220 grit sandpaper and wipe and/or spray off the dust with compressed air. Make sure the MDF is clean and sanded for the best possible bond.
What kind of primer should I use on our MDF countertops?
We recommend using a Behr Ultra Premium Plus in a Satin sheen. There are limitless amounts of color options, but most of our countertops are in a variant of White, Gray, Brown, and Black. It is important to get a low VOC paint that will release all VOC within 24 hours. This will ensure the epoxy does not have additional chemicals released into it during the curing process.
What type of substrate should I use for building new countertops?
We recommend using Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) which is available at nearly every local lumber or home improvement store. MDF is less porous than some of the other options and it will be much easier to work with. All of our tops are built with ¾” MDF and then add ¾” edge strip for a total of 1.5” of front edging.
How can I make sure that I do not get epoxy on my floor, workstation, or any place I do not want it?
Plastic sheeting is your friend! It is inexpensive and epoxy will peel right off of the plastic sheeting once it has hardened.
General Questions
How long should I mix the epoxy for?
It is important that the epoxy is mixed completely. Incomplete mixing can create soft spots in the cured product. It is recommended to mix the epoxy in a clean container for 2 minutes with a mixing stick. After 2 minutes scrape the sides and bottom of the graduated bucket, then continue to mix for an additional 2 minutes. Again, it is very important to make sure your epoxy has been mixed very well for best performance.
Does adding additional Hardener to the mix improve the final hardness of the product?
NO! Adding additional hardener will do the exact opposite, leaving you with a soft/tacky product. It is important to mix this product at an exact 1:1 ratio by volume.
What kind of pigments can I add to color my epoxy?
Mica powder and Pigment Pastes are our suggested pigment, however you can also add water based paints, oil based paints, acrylic paints, and epoxy pastes. Remember LESS IS MORE! Tinting your epoxy does not take much pigment, and when you add too much it can affect the curing process. Add a little bit at a time, mix, and if you haven’t reached your desired effect you can add a little more.
How do I remove the air bubbles from my epoxy?
15-20 minutes after pouring, you can lightly torch the top of the epoxy in a sweeping motion about 5-6 inches away from the top. Wait another 10 minutes, and repeat this process once more.
How can I clean excess epoxy off of my workstation, hands, etc.?
While in liquid form you can use acetone to clean up the epoxy. Once it has cured you will need to sand it or use a paint stripper.
The epoxy is leaving drips on the bottom of my project, how can I remove them?
It is best to remove the drips 2-3 hours after pouring the epoxy. It will begin to gel and the drips can easily be removed by slowly sliding a paint stick at a 45° angle. Wipe the epoxy on to plastic and you will be able to peel it off and throw it away once it has cured.
Can I use this epoxy outdoors?
Our epoxy (and almost all epoxy) is not meant for outdoor use. Can it be used outdoors? Yes, however it will be more prone to yellowing from overexposure to ultraviolet rays. If you plan to use this epoxy outdoors, we recommend using only darker pigments and not white.
Can I pour this epoxy in low temperatures?
Our epoxy resin can be poured at lower temperatures than recommended, though it will decrease the overall durability of the final coating as well as require longer to achieve a full cure.
How can I warm my epoxy up before pouring?
You can place the bottles in front of a space heater for 15-20 minutes to allow them to get up to temperature or place them in a bucket of hot water (with lids tightly closed). Be sure to check them with an infrared thermometer periodically.
How can I keep my room at the suggested working/curing temperature?
We recommend using a radiant heating system. This will ensure the temperature is capable of staying at the required temperature for working/curing, as well as minimizing air movement and unnecessary particle movement. An alternative to this for smaller projects is creating a tent around your working area and using ceramic space heaters to keep the temperature of the room/tent consistent. We always recommend keeping a digital thermometer in your room that can track 24 hours of temperatures ensuring you do not have issues between day and night hours. The more accurate your room's temperature is, the better your final product will be.
How do I keep dust, dirt, bugs, etc. out of my project?
An easy fix for this is creating a cover out of PVC and draping plastic over your project, or simply using a cardboard box.
Is it better to use a foam roller, foam brush, or square notch trowel for spreading out the epoxy resin?
This is completely based on preference of the user. A square notch trowel is going to be the easiest to use and achieve complete coverage while spreading a fairly equal amount of product over the surface. Foam rollers and foam brushes are softer and will not leave any marks on your painted substrate, so they can be better to use when pouring a clear flood coat.
Why should I use a torch over a heat gun to remove bubbles?
Heat guns will move the product and can ruin your designs. Propane torches will provide enough heat to pop the bubbles farther away without moving anything around too much. It is worth having both!