Resin Coating FAQs - Chicago Printing On Canvas & Fine Art Prints, Custom Picture Framing, Plaque Mounting, Metal, Wood & Fabric Dye-sublimation

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1 : What is epoxy resin?
Resin results in a THICK, glossy, clear & shiny coat atop the artwork. A fluid-like coating is mixed with a hardener in order to create the strong bonding agent. After it has been mixed, it is poured onto the artwork. This thermosetting polymer is a viscose fluid that is very tough and rigid after it has been cured, making it heat-, scratch- and water-resistant. It results in an ultra glossy appearance that can make your canvas prints stand out.

Because of its durability, it is mainly used as structural or engineering adhesive for boats, automobiles, air crafts, flooring, dentistry, etc. It is also used as strong adhesive, coating and laminate. Learn more from our Resin Coating article.

Order online: Epoxy Resin

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Q2 : What is the difference between a resin coating and a varnish?
A resin coating is like varnish, but since it is much thicker, it acts like an extra protective coating for your artwork, prints or canvases. The cured resin will be heat, water and scratch resistant and it dries very glossy to achieve a translucent effect. Varnishes are also used to protect artwork, but aren't as durable as the thick resin coating.

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Q3 : What can you apply epoxy resin on?
Epoxy resin on most types of material. We can add a resin coating to any of your canvas prints, original oil and acrylic paintings, posters, photographs and plaque mounts! This coating is very versatile and can be used in many ways. The coating is rigid and strong when it is dry, so it will maintain a great finish on all your photos, images and artwork! Order online to do-it-yourself: Epoxy Resin

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Q4 : What is the recommended amount of resin coating for my photo?
We recommend a 1/8" coating of resin which is two layers of 1/16" because it is the best amount of coating to enhance the image quality and protect the artwork. But there is no limit to how much resin you should apply; please contact us if you are unsure of how much resin your prints require.

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Q5 : What is the difference between Polyester Resin and Epoxy Resin?
Polyester resin, although it has adhesive qualities, does not bond as well as epoxy resin. Polyester resin is made to be a laminating resin, usually for fibreglass or in molds. Unlike epoxy resins, polyester resins require a catalyst instead of a hardener - they have a low shelf life because they gel on their own. Polyester resin sets much faster and is less expensive than epoxy resins, but epoxy resins are more durable, more waterproof, better bonding agents, and will last much longer, so they are better for coating artwork. We sell and use Epoxy Resin

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Q6 : What brand of Resin do you use?
We use EX-74 which is an extremely clear, tough, high gloss surface coating formulated to produce a deep glass-like appearance in a single layer on a sealed surface. EX-74 has been formulated for improved UV resistance, which means it reduces yellowing and surface degradation from UV exposure. EX-74 has an extended "open time" which allows up to 25 minutes in the mixing container at 70º F and up to one hour working time on the surface being coated. It is not recommended in freezing climates due to possibility of de-lamination.

EX-74 resists yellowing from UV exposure, but it is not weather-resistant and is not recommended for unprotected exterior use. Order online: EX-74 Resin

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Q7 : Will the resin coating affect my photo?
The epoxy resin will not harm your image in any way, though it is permanent and cannot be removed without damaging the print. The viscosity of the polymer will sit on top of the canvas and act like a seal, actually protecting your print for water damage or scratched. The glossy shine of hardened resin will enhance the colors within your image by brightening them up.

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Q8 : What images are best for a resin application?
Resin is a good agent for coating and protecting your artwork or photos, and will enhance the colors of the photo or the artwork because of the way it reflects and retracts light. In general, artworks with texture, or canvas gallery wrap prints, are better, compared to flat-mounted photographs.

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Q9 : How long does a resin coated image last?
The resin we use dries very tough and rigid, so it is highly durable, resistant against heat and water, and insoluble in alcohol. This extra durability protect your photos. This formula has improved UV resistance and minimizes surface degradation from UV exposure. Resin is used for many industrial purposes, but in order to maintain its longevity, it is best to keep indoors, out of direct sunlight.

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Q10 : Does a resin-coated picture yellow over time?
Our resin has been enhanced to protect against yellowing from UV exposure; if kept indoors and out of direct sunlight it will last for many years.

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Q11 : What are the advantages of epoxy resin?
The resin will seal your canvases and protect them from moisture, heat and physical stress. Most epoxies are used as industrial grade adhesives because of their durability and rigidness, therefore epoxy resin will protect your canvas for a very long time. The epoxy has a high gloss finish that gives your canvas a glassy look. This feature can enhance the colors within the image. Order online: Epoxy Resin, unmixed for DIY projects.

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Q12 : What are the disadvantages of epoxy resin?
The resin can yellow if exposed to excessive sunlight. Our resin has been improved to resist yellowing from UV light and if kept out of direct sunlight the yellowing will be reduced.

It also is prone to trapping air bubbles or dust. These bubbles usually appear after it has dried and settled. This is very common with resin coating because of its viscous nature. We cannot always guarantee a flawless finish but we always try our best to reduce the amount of interference from environmental elements.

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Q13 : How do I clean my resin print?
You can clean it with a damp cloth.

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Q14 : What is the turnover time, if I want to get my prints finished with epoxy resin?
Epoxy resin takes at least 24 hours to cure, so expect an extra day to two days delay on your orders if you request resin coating on your prints.

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If you don't find the answer you're looking for here, please contact us.