Want to get crafty with resin but stuck on which glue to use? We’ve got you covered. Read our easy guide on how to glue resin together to learn a useful craft skill.
Resin can be your trusty sidekick for an incredible range of DIY adventures and creative projects: it’s sturdy, adaptable, tough as nails and rarely breaks. But, if you're cooking up a crafty project with resin, knowing how to glue it together is key. When it comes to traditional adhesive heroes - super glue and epoxy - it’s important to know which one works best, and when?
To choose what glue to use on resin models, miniatures and 3D prints you need to understand the properties of super glue and epoxy. Want your creation to last for ages? Epoxy’s your heavyweight champ. Need to make a quick fix that dries in a jiffy? Super glue is your superhero. For example, when it comes to crafting small, detailed resin models, super glue (cyanoacrylate) is your best bet. Using it to glue resin miniatures has its perks, such as:
- Ease of use
- Precise application
- Quick drying time
- Strong, transparent bonds
However, if you want a larger resin-based model or 3D print (creation or repair) to stand the test of time, epoxy is your best bet. It has similar benefits to super glue: it’s easy to use, provides precise application, dries quickly and transparent, but with the added benefit of providing an even stronger bond.
When using epoxy to glue resin 3D prints, we recommend UniBond Repair Epoxy plastic. It’s a fast-acting, two-part adhesive that’s conveniently packed in a twin chamber syringe for easy application. It starts to set in as little as 5 minutes, is waterproof and temperature resistant from -30°C to +150°C. This adhesive is your go-to for swiftly and securely bonding and repairing most types of resin while also providing strong bonds to other common materials like wood, leather, metal, glass, and ceramics. Plus, it can be sanded, drilled, machined and painted!
To begin gluing resin with epoxy, gather the following materials:
- UniBond Repair Epoxy plastic
- A clean cloth
- Pieces of plain paper
- Mixing tray and spatula (included in pack)
- Sandpaper
- Self-adhesive tape or clamps
- A blade (for dried epoxy removal)
When working with epoxy, it's important to prioritise safety measures. Make sure to wear protective gloves and carry out your projects in a well-ventilated area.
Ready to go? Here’s your step-by-step guide on how to glue resin together using epoxy:
- Prep the surfaces: Ensure all surfaces you’re working with are clean and dry. For better adhesion, roughen them up using sandpaper.
- Test the fit: Lay out a large sheet of plain paper to arrange and view all resin pieces clearly and see how the pieces fit together. Make sure to smooth out any gaps or uneven surfaces using sandpaper or a file.
- Get the epoxy ready: Remove the re-sealable cap from the syringe plunger and snap off the tab from the syringe nozzles. Gently push down the plunger to dispense the adhesive into the mixing tray or onto a clean, non-absorbent surface. Dispense only the amount needed. Immediately re-seal the cap onto the syringe nozzles.
- Mix thoroughly: Use a mixing tool to mix the adhesive well. Time is of the essence here, so make sure to use the epoxy immediately after mixing.
- Application time: Apply the adhesive to one of the surfaces to be bonded. Press the surfaces together firmly. Wipe away any excess adhesive immediately with a clean cloth.
- Secure in place: Use self-adhesive tape or clamps to hold the bonded pieces together.
- Let it cure: While the epoxy starts setting in 5 minutes, UniBond Repair Epoxy plastic takes up to 24 hours to fully cure. For optimal results, wait at least 4 hours after full curing before further handling the object.
Now that you've mastered bonding resin using epoxy, remember, this stuff isn't just for resin. UniBond epoxies are champs with wood, metal, glass, ceramics – you name it! Keep that epoxy close by for whatever DIY adventure comes your way.
