Resin Glossary: Terms Every Artist Should Know

A Beginner’s Guide to Epoxy Language (Without the Science Degree)

If you’re new to resin, it’s easy to feel like you’re reading another language.
What’s a pot life? Why is everything purple? And is “resin” the same thing as “epoxy”?
Spoiler: YES — and we’re breaking it all down below.
Whether you’re pouring tumblers, trays, or art pieces, this glossary is your go-to guide for mastering the resin lingo that actually matters — and pouring with confidence.

Epoxy, Resin, or Epoxy Resin — What’s the Difference?
Honestly? Not much.
In the crafting world, these terms are used interchangeably.
“Resin” typically refers to epoxy resin
“Epoxy” is just short for the same thing
“Epoxy resin” = the full scientific term
So if you see “epoxy,” “resin,” or “epoxy resin” on a product — it’s all referring to the two-part system: resin (Part A) + hardener (Part B).
All Artistry Epoxy products fall into this category.

A–Z Resin Glossary

1. Epoxy Resin
   A two-part compound that cures into a durable, clear finish. Used in art, tumblers, tables, molds, and more.

2. Cure Time
   The total time required for resin to fully harden. Most formulas fully cure in 24–72 hours.

3. Pot Life / Working Time
   Pot life is how long it can be in the container before it kicks (exothermic reaction).
   Working time or open time refers to how long you have to work with your mixed resin before it starts to thicken or cure on the surface.
   Pot life can be as short as 5 minutes (for fast formulas) or 45+ minutes for slower cures like Artistry Epoxy Original.

4. Flash Cure
   A fast, unintended hardening caused by excess heat or volume.
   Avoid by mixing in small batches and keeping resin under 80°F.

5. UV Inhibitors, Blockers & HALS
   UV Inhibitors absorb harmful UV rays
   UV Blockers reflect and scatter light
   HALS (Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers) fight yellowing at the molecular level
   Artistry Epoxy includes all three — plus Color Correct+ adds even more.

6. Color Correcting
   A process where violet pigment is used to neutralize yellowed resin, based on complementary color theory.
   Our Color Correct+ UV+ Dye uses this exact science.

7. Off-Gassing
   The release of air from materials like wood or silicone, which can create bubbles in your resin. Seal porous materials before pouring.

8. Mix Ratio
   The specific formula for mixing resin and hardener. Most resins are mixed 1:1 by volume.
   Always mix thoroughly and follow manufacturer instructions.

9. Exothermic Reaction
   The chemical process where resin heats up as it cures. This is what hardens the epoxy — but too much = trouble.

10. Microbubbles
    Tiny bubbles caused by:

• Cold resin

• Overmixing

• High humidity

• Dirty molds
  Artistry Epoxy’s built-in bubble release helps eliminate them without over-torching.

11. Viscosity
    A measure of how thick or thin your resin is:

• Low = runny, great for coating

• High = thick, great for doming
  Artistry Epoxy has balanced viscosity for multipurpose use.

12. Food Safe
    Once cured, some resins (like ours) are FDA-compliant for indirect food contact — perfect for trays, tumblers, and coasters.

13. Yellowing
    The most dreaded issue in resin art. Caused by UV light, oxygen, and heat over time.
    Prevent it with Artistry Epoxy’s UV+ formula.
    Fix it with Color Correct+ UV+ Dye.

Bonus Resin Tips

• Keep humidity under 40%

• Warm resin to 75°F for clarity

• Use the double-cup mixing method (1 min in each)

• Store resin upright and sealed

• Always wear gloves and work in a ventilated area

Final Thoughts
The more you understand your resin, the better (and easier) your art becomes. Whether you’re making your first keychain or running a full-time creative biz — this glossary will help you feel confident at the pour table.
Shop Artistry Epoxy – Clear, Strong, and Built to Last
Rescue Resin & Prevent Yellowing with Color Correct+ UV+ Dye