• Use resin as an adhesive for glass tiles, a grout for mosaics or a topcoat over glass shards to ensure that sharp edges are not exposed.
• Use glass pieces to embellish and add glitter and texture to projects like geodes.
• Apply resin directly to glass surfaces, e.g. mirrors, an old window pane or wine glass.

Although resin adheres to glass, there are some important factors to be aware of. In this blog we will explore some project ideas and share best practices for success when working with resin and glass.

(Photo courtesy of @searoxx_art )

Does resin stick to glass?

Yes, resin adheres very well to glass due to its high surface energy. Surface energy refers to the attractive force between materials. Glass, which is a material with a high surface energy, easily attracts resin and creates a strong bond. In contrast, materials with low surface energy such as plastic repel resin, which is why hardened resin peels so easily from plastic tools and silicone molds.

Should glass be used as a resin surface?

Mirror and glass sheets provide a smooth, flat surface that is ideal for pouring and layering resin. However, there are 3 important things to keep in mind:


1. Avoid exposing resin and glass pieces to temperature fluctuations:

Although resin bonds well to glass, it is important to note that they are two separate layers, each with its own thermal expansion rate. This means that resin and glass expand in warmer temperatures and contract in colder temperatures at different rates. When exposed to extreme temperature swings, the two layers behave differently and problems can occur as a result. These can include glass shards or the two layers separating, leading to air pockets or flaking resin. Here's how to prevent these problems:

• Store your resin and glass pieces in temperature controlled environments. Avoid areas subject to significant temperature fluctuations such as outdoor spaces, windows, front doors, or anywhere they will be exposed to heat or direct sunlight.
• If you are worried about delamination, you can very easily sand the glass with fine sandpaper before applying the resin. Grinding increases the surface area that the resin can adhere to and strengthens the bond.
• Remember that resin and glass objects are not dishwasher or microwave safe. Wash them carefully by hand and avoid temperature fluctuations, such as pouring a cold drink into a hot glass.
  

2. Glass is fragile and resin is heavy.

With or without resin on it, glass can shatter easily, especially if there is a hairline fracture or weak spot. Be aware that resin adds significant weight, so be extremely careful when handling or transporting resin and glass projects, especially large, heavy items such as tabletops. To reduce the risk of glass splinters:

• Choose thick glass to better support the weight of the resin.
  
• Consider small projects, e.g. coasters, mason jars, wine glass bases, glass plates, small wall mirrors, etc.
• Make sure the resin and glass art are supported by sturdy frames or bases.

 

3. Make sure the glass is clean and dry before applying resin.

As with all surfaces, dust, dirt, grease and other contaminants can prevent the resin from adhering properly.

Types of artwork you can make with resin on glass

You can create glass and resin art in so many different ways! Here are some project ideas to get you started:

Wall mirror with tinted resin top

(photo courtesy of Glass Artz Creations Co. )

(Photo courtesy of @kaysartistryjp )

(Photo courtesy of @searoxx_art )

(Photo courtesy of @kaysartistryjp )

(Photo courtesy of @elizabeth_rhodes_studio )

(photo courtesy of @elizabeth_rhodes_studio )

How to create art with resin and glass

Choose your glass surface

You can use many different types of glass for your project, from a simple coaster to a wall mirror to a wine glass. If you're looking for something a little more unconventional, try working with an old window pane, an ornamental bowl, a table top, or a Mason jar.

Choose your decorations

Depending on what you are doing, you can embellish your art with colored resin, glass plates, glass shards, fire glass or broken glass pieces.

Choose your resin

If you're not sure which resin to use, we recommend our ArtResin which is formulated specifically for creative projects and gives a gorgeous, glossy finish to whatever you apply it to. It's Easy to work with, so it's perfect for beginners, and its non-toxic formula and low odor mean it's safe to use at home.

Before you start working with resin, make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand. Check out some of our Project 1 on Youtube. We have accessories such as nitrile gloves, wooden spatulas, silicone molds and bowls.

Prepare the resin

Next, assuming you have all the necessary safety equipment, carefully measure equal parts of ArtResin's resin and hardener by volume and stir slowly for 3 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom of the container as you mix. Once the resin is mixed, portion it out into smaller cups if you plan to add colorants. Then it's time to start pouring! For best results, pour the resin slowly and evenly onto the glass surface. Use a gas burner/alcohol spray to eliminate bubbles.

Let the resin harden

Once you've added all of your desired embellishments, it's time to protect your work from dust with a dust cover and then let your resin harden . the resin will be dry to the touch after 24 hours. Wall art can be hung at this point, but it's best to let functional artwork fully cure for 3 days before using. This gives the resin time to cure properly and avoid damage to your artwork.

Tips for making resin art with glass

Are you ready to try making reindeer art with glass? Here are some tips to keep in mind:

💡 Tip 1 : Make sure the glass is dry and free of dust, fingerprints or other contamination. These will not only show up in your finished sculpture, but can also prevent the resin from adhering properly.

 

💡 Tip 2 : If you are worried about the resin separating, sand the glass very lightly to help the resin bond better. This will create more surface area for the resin to adhere to.

💡 Tip 3 : Use a small amount of resin to attach loose pieces of glass such as fire glass, tiles or shards. You can attach the glass pieces individually or you can drizzle the resin on top of your design; The resin will work its way through the glass pieces and to the surface. Once hardened, the glass pieces will be safe.

 

💡 Tip 4 : Use a gas burner to remove bubbles from the resin. It effectively removes bubbles without blowing hot air or dust over your work like a heat gun can.

 

💡 Tip 5 : Let the resin harden completely for 72 hours before handling your finished work. This gives the resin time to cure properly and avoid damage to your artwork.

💡 Tip 6: Be extremely careful when handling resin and glass art. Place your item indoors, in a temperature-controlled environment, to prevent the glass from shattering or the layers from separating.

We hope you feel inspired to create something new!

And if you're looking for creative project ideas and tips for working with resin, check out our blog for help and inspiration.

We look forward to seeing what you have created!