TIPS / RESIN DOMING FAQ

Our community of makers have come forward with some great questions in relation to doming with resin. We have answered them all here.

Best doming resin?

Our stocked JustResin DiamondCote or ArtCast Slow Set Resin are our two top recommendations.

Does resin bubble? If so, how do you remove them before it's cured?

Yes, when mixing resin bubbles do form. Our tips to remove and minimise bubbles are heating the resin in warm water or the sun before pouring and mixing the resin, let the resin sit for 5 or 10 minutes after mixing the two parts together, use a heat gun or lighter to pop the bubbles once the resin has been applied to the surface.

What's the best heat gun to remove bubbles?

Hot Devil or Scanpan Butane Blow Torches are the top recommendations from our resin community on Instagram.

Why does the resin shrink and pull away from the outsides of my domed piece?

Shrinking is a result of a chemical reaction that occurs when certain resins cure (specifically UC resin). You are using the wrong resin for doming if this is happening. You need to use a resin that is specifically made for doming such as DiamondCote or ArtCast Slow Set Resin. These resins will not shrink when you dome with them.

Tips for someone new to doming?

Take your time with the process, do some research on Google before starting and invest in resin that is made specifically for doming like DiamondCote or ArtCast Slow Set Resin. 

Should you sand before or after resin doming?

Sand after doming, otherwise you'll end up having to sand twice in case there is resin spillage. 

Is resin safe? 

It is imperative that you follow safety measures when using resin as it does release toxic fumes. You need to wear a mask, goggles and gloves to avoid any skin exposure. Sit in a well ventilated room like a garage with the door open. As long as you practice these safety measures, you will be fine. Don't let it scare you from playing with resin as it is truly a wonderful medium.

What is the best tool to use to apply resin to the surface of what you are doming?

This is a complete person preference. I [Lauren] use paddle pop sticks but haven't tried any other method. Others swear by a syringe. See what works for you!

Can I use UV light to cure JR DiamondCote resin?

DiamondCote does not requires UV light to cure  It cures itself over a 7 day period. It can be touched after 24 hours.

How do I keep my resin from peeling off my clay when I drill holes?

Peeling happens when the resin is not cured enough. It is important to allow a full length curing time before drilling (look at the resin instructions to find this information). Drilling the hole from the back of the polymer clay piece stops the resin from peeling on the front. Placing masking tape on the resin and drilling over the tape is also a way to prevent peeling and cracking. 

What do you do if resin drips over the edge of the polymer clay?

Once the resin has cured, you can sand any resin spillage off the sides of your pieces.  

When doming, does it cover the sides?

Doming only covers the top of the polymer clay (or whatever surface you are applying the resin to). It does not cover the sides... but never say never!

Have you got a question that hasn't been answered here? Send us an email and we would love to help you out.