The application of epoxy resin is a fairly particular process. Though none of the steps are complex—instead being rather straightforward—they do require a bit of care and effort in order to achieve optimal results.

There are 4 major phases to the epoxy process, each with its own steps.

These 4 major phases include:

• The Preparation Phase
• The Seal Coat Phase
• The Flood Coat Phase
• The Curing Phase

The seal coat and flood coat phases require the user to prepare a batch of epoxy, which is then applied to a substrate or mold(s).

Mixing up a batch of epoxy involves 3 steps:

• Measuring the epoxy. This involves pouring the components into a mixing container in the correct ratio.
• Blending the epoxy. Using stir sticks or a drill, one can blend the components together into the epoxy mix.
• Applying the epoxy. If mixed properly, the epoxy will begin to cure. You'll have a limited time to apply it without any issues occurring.

In this article, we'll be focusing on how to mix up an epoxy batch. This technique requires more care than the others, but performing it well will lead to a smooth, clean finish for your epoxy resin.

How to Mix Epoxy Resin

Because epoxy batch requirements tend to vary, we'll be including instructions for smaller batches and larger batches. We consider a smaller batch to be anything below .75 gallons. A larger batch, is anything from .75 gallons to 1 gallon.

Mixing a smaller batch of epoxy (less than .75 gallons)

A smaller batch of epoxy typically just uses stir sticks for the mixing. This method is entirely manual and provides the most room for finesse.

A power drill is not recommended for smaller batches because the force it applies while mixing is strong enough to induce air into the epoxy resin. This air will foment numerous air bubbles, potentially producing a myriad of imperfections and blemishes to manifest during application and curing.

Mixing a larger batch of epoxy (.75 gallons to 1 gallon)

On the other hand, a larger batch of epoxy uses a power drill as well as stir sticks. This involves placing a mixing drill bit deep into the mixing container and running it at a medium speed setting to blend the components together.

The stir sticks are less prominent during this method, but are still useful for their ability to scrape the sides and bottom of the mixing container to ensure minimal resin gets left unmixed.

Below are our step-by-step guides for either method.

Method #1: Mixing Smaller Batches of Epoxy

For this method, you'll just need:

• Stir Sticks. Plastic or wooden will do.
• Mixing Container(s). Choose a suitable size with graduated lines. In our store, we offer excellent 1-quart and 5-quart containers.
• Epoxy Resin. Aim for high quality if you want a strong, clear finish.

Optionally, we also suggest wearing nitrile gloves and an N95 or KN95 respirator, particularly if you have either a skin sensitivity or respiratory sensitivity, as epoxy does let off mild fumes during the curing process.

Step #1: Measure the Epoxy

First, determine the ratio for your chosen epoxy brand/variant. Most epoxy resins require a 1:1 ratio, but some variants use 2:1, 3:1, or even 5:1.

Once you know, begin by pouring the epoxy hardener into a mixing container, then add a suitable amount of the corresponding resin component. Also, when measuring, always measure by volume, not by weight.

Note: It can be very helpful to use a container with lines that measure that indicate volume.

Step #2: Mix the Epoxy

Place the stir stick into the mixing container, it should be more than long enough to reach the bottom. Begin mixing the epoxy components together. Instructions may vary by brand, but this typically takes about 2 to 3 minutes.

As you mix, you should also occasionally scrape the sides and bottom of the container to loosen any resin that is sticking to these surfaces. This will reduce buildup of any residual resin, which is otherwise unusable.

If you intend to use epoxy colorants, such as epoxy powder pigments or epoxy liquid pigments, now is the right time to do so.

Step #3: Apply the Epoxy

After you've adequately mixed your epoxy, you'll want to apply it immediately.

Working time (i.e., how much application time you have before there's a risk of issues) varies greatly by epoxy type, with some allowing 5 minutes, and others providing up to 35 or more.

Generally, it's the stronger, more viscous epoxy types which tend to have a shorter working time.

And that's how you mix up a smaller batch of epoxy! From there you'll likely do one of two things:

• If it was a seal coat you applied, you'll move onto the flood coat phase.
• If it was a flood coat or resin casting layer, you'll move onto air bubble removal.

Method #2: Mixing Larger Batches of Epoxy

Mixing up a larger batch of epoxy is both a little more involved but also requires much less exertion.

For this method, you'll need:

• Stir Sticks. You can scrape the sides of the container where the drill bit can't reach with stir sticks.
• Mixing Containers. Consider our 5-quart mixing containers, which feature graduated measurement lines to accurate volume.
• Power Drill with Mixing Drill Bit. You can get a mixing bit in many home improvement stores as well as in our own Primaloc store.
• Epoxy Resin. Choose a premium resin for a resilient, crystal-clear finish.

In addition to those items, we also suggest wearing nitrile gloves and an N95 or KN95 respirator, particularly if you have either a skin sensitivity or respiratory sensitivity, as epoxy does let off mild fumes during the curing process.

Step #1: Measure the Epoxy

First, determine the ratio for your chosen epoxy brand/variant. Most epoxy resins require a 1:1 ratio, but some variants use 2:1, 3:1 or even 5:1.

Once you know, begin by pouring the epoxy hardener into a mixing container, then add a suitable amount of the corresponding resin component. Also, when measuring, always measure by volume, not by weight.

Note: It can be very helpful to use a container with measurement lines that indicate volume.

Step #2: Blend the Epoxy

To blend the epoxy, you'll use your power drill with the mixing bit attached, occasionally pausing to scrape the interior surfaces with a stir stick.

• Start by lowering the mixing drill bit deep into the container. You want it low enough that it doesn't pull in air while mixing.
  
  
• At medium speed, start mixing. The drill will begin blending the epoxy components together. Keep the bit low so that it doesn't pull in air from above.
  
  
• Do this for 2 minutes, using smooth, circular motions as the drill does its job. Once those 2 minutes have passed, pause the drill mixing.
  
  
• Next, use a stir stick to scrape the interior sides and bottom of the container. This is done to dislodge any resin that settled on these surfaces so that it can be mixed into the rest of the batch properly.
  
  
• After you've scraped the sides, now is your chance to add in any colorants.
  
  
• Finally, return the drill bit to position deep in the container and resume the blending for another 2 or 3 minutes.

Step #3: Apply the Epoxy

After you've adequately mixed your epoxy, you'll want to apply it immediately.

Working time (i.e., how much application time you have before there's a risk of issues) varies greatly by epoxy type, with some allowing 5 minutes, and others providing up to 35 or more.

Generally, it's the stronger, more viscous epoxy types which tend to have a shorter working time.

And that's how you mix up a larger batch of epoxy!

All that's left at this point is to pour it onto your substrate or mold. From there, it's a good idea to remove any air bubbles and then allow it to cure.

Additional Resources

Mixing is only part of the epoxy process. Here are some additional resources you may find useful:

• Primaloc Tips: Measuring the Amount of Epoxy You Need - Measuring your epoxy batch accurately is essential to achieving that crystal-clear finish.
  
  
• Primaloc Epoxy Basics: 5 Tips on How to Pour Resin - Discover 5 handy tips to getting the perfect pour with your epoxy resin.
  
  
• Primaloc Epoxy Basics: How to Store Your Epoxy and Avoid Yellowing - Sometimes you're not ready to use your epoxy. Learn how to store it here.

Primaloc Epoxy: Premium Epoxy for Premium Results

When it comes to epoxy resin, Primaloc Epoxy gets the job done. Our epoxy resin is premium-grade, with high performance in every category.

Epoxy resin can be beautiful, strong, and long-lasting—which is why you shouldn't compromise on quality. With Primaloc Epoxy Resin, you get the ultimate finish in durability and visual appeal.

Protect your surfaces by giving them a rock-solid epoxy finish. Choose strong. Choose reliable. Choose Primaloc.