How To Use A Torch With Resin

www.artresin.com
Do I REALLY have to use a torch for surface bubbles in my resin?
In short, the answer is YES - to get rid of bubbles, a torch is the best tool for the job.
A torch is far more effective at getting rid of bubbles than any other method, including:
- popping bubbles with a toothpick: Bubbles will pop when you poke them with a pin or a toothpick, yes, but it's labor intensive and pretty much impossible to cover a large piece of artwork in 45 minutes ( ArtResin's working time )
- Using a straw to blow them out: blowing on bubbles can cause the bubbles to pop, yes, but it's also a super slow process. This method might work on small pieces, like jewellery, but again it's not realistic for large artwork.
- Using a hair dryer: while it's true that heat helps in the fight against bubbles, a hair dryer just isn't intense enough. And just think of all that dust and hair in your hair dryer or floating around in the air that you're going to be blasting all over your wet artwork.
- A heatgun: a heatgun is significantly hotter than a hair dryer and it will certainly get rid of bubbles more efficiently than blowing through a straw or poking with a toothpick. Again, you're blowing a lot of air onto your wet resin, which brings with it the very good chance of blowing dust all over it too.
The control you get with a torch, however, will zap those bubbles with ease and efficiency for the pro results you're looking for! The flame from a torch heats the resin surface up instantly, thinning it out and allowing bubbles to escape very easily.
An added benefit of the flame is that it will burn off tiny dust particles that may have landed in the resin.
⚠️PLEASE NOTE: Exercise caution & common sense when working with a naked flame. Direct the flame away from you when igniting the torch. Never leave a flame unattended. Keep the flame well away from flammable substances.
To help you, we have a handheld Artist's Torch and an Artist's Propane Torch Head for larger jobs.
Once you use a torch, you'll wonder what you ever did without it!
Special thanks to @bexzakart and @current_trade for their beautiful artwork!

[@ramonbannister9498]

The woman is a really good on-camera talent. Thx for the tips.

[@colinmj.jalbert5436]

this was exactly what I needed. Many thanks!

[@misspippi8788]

You are such an amazing teacher. Thanks for this video!!

[@alisonmaschmeier8850]

What a great video. Thank you for being so thorough! I tried out a few acrylic pours and was so upset to see so many bubbles when it dried. Now I know how to avoid that!

[@Jeea84]

This was so extremely helpful 💕💕💕 Thank you so much for your guidance and vdo upload!! I've been needing to refill my torch and now I know how to without being afraid of setting everything on fire 😃❤️💗💕

[@TheJacinda1]

So happy I have found you guys. OMG so helpful and full of information. I am just getting started into make making resin art and decor and this is very helpful. Can't wait to try out your products!!!

[@zoodleinfo]

Very helpful. I think I will practice before making my table

[@diptitrivedi342]

This was so helpful!! And you have a wonderful way of presenting🙂 Thank you so much!!

[@dogsallowed7]

Really helpful and informative. Excellent tutorial, very well explained. Thank you 😊

[@MTW1108]

Really useful and clear instruction. Thanks so much!

[@alissawalters5950]

You did an amazing job teaching about this!

[@dorisruiz4801]

Lovely video, great explanation, a lot of tips. Many thanks

[@alanbarnhill930]

Excellent and detailed. Thanks Joanne.

[@ghazanfaransari]

very informative. helped in selection of my bubble removing method. Thanks.

[@diptinadarr8690]

Wow that was cool and very well explained. 👍

[@abigail593]

Thank you for sharing! This was really helpful ❤️

[@linseydiggett747]

Extremely helpful. Thank you x

[@adrift_makes]

Very informative and helpful demonstration, top notch instruction! Hats off!

[@Artresin]

Thank you!!

[@PriyankaAher5]

Wow, loved your video, perfect!

[@dcampbell5054]

Very helpful. Thank you!

[@Nirvana_Music_Empires]

thank you so much. I was searching for this details. now I can do something grate.

[@joanestinval8522]

Thank you SO much. I’ve never used a torch before and was a little apprehensive about it. This tutorial was very helpful. On my way now to buy my torch!!

[@ellee33]

Super helpful!! Thank you so much!

[@accordionchick]

Wow…thank you for this lesson. I’m getting ready to do my first piece and you answered so many questions!

[@Artresin]

Good Luck!!

[@kathinubile7406]

Thank you! I am going to be trying to resin this week and you are the best video so far! very informative

[@Artresin]

Thank you Kathi!

[@barny747747]

Excellent video, thank you :)

[@fayed.untitled]

Extremely helpful video! Amazing and informative... Thanks a ton! you gained a new subscriber

[@lorishuffield4806]

Very informative! Thank you

[@studiosandi]

Thank you🤗 thank you🤗 thank you🤗 for this video💞

[@ThriftDiving]

This was super helpful! I ordered some of your resin last year but never got around to using it. I think I even have the butane torch, too. I'm cleaning out my garage and will find my materials and get started with something fun!

[@ChesneyAdventures]

Thank you

[@freewaybaby]

“Incinerating surface dust”!!!!!! OMG... I never even considered that. Even a pressure pot can’t do that. Thanks for that. I’m used to using a jewelry torch, but wanted to be off the long gas/oxygen hoses and a small torch is so freeing; I just came here to see how to fill it with butane. Thanks for a very helpful video!

[@Lizkretschmer]

Thank you soooo much for this!!!

[@voongnz]

Thanks 😊

[@thamish]

For large pieces that you have showed in this video, what do you use to cover it to avoid flakes getting in ? Any tips on how to make a good cover ?

[@gramarrowsmith]

I just did this and the resin literally burst into flames!!

[@tammysimmons7255]

Thanks.

[@GufranKhan-fi6jm]

Your chainal give deep imformation

[@virtualbaba5889]

Great video. Thank you. Just bought a torch to use on acrylic pours but had no blinkin' idea how to use it. Haha Thanks again.

[@Artresin]

So glad you found it helpful!

[@Decopainterandtea]

Muahh....GREAT info Art Resin.

[@bethnoclelakey8283]

Thank youuu

[@Andf-kc4xx]

I'm glad I have a propane torch handy...what luck!

[@anjalimakharia9642]

Hello! Loved the way you teach this beautiful art. Can you please tell me if i can use the torch on my silicone moulds for making coasters?

[@Artresin]

If you are using a torch with a silicone mold just use caution, the flame can begin to break down the mold if it touches it. We try to avoid using a torch with our molds whenever possible for that reason :)

[@uraniamelendez1351]

This video was very helpful. I live in South Florida. Can I store the propane and torch when still full in my garage? I am concerned about this. Thank you

[@Artresin]

yes you can.

[@samikshadalal9140]

Hey thanks for this informative video ☺️ Can we use torch for merging colours in resin art ...like for the beach effect or anything like that ???

[@Artresin]

You would want to use a heat gun or hair dryer for those type of effects. Take a look at our ocean art blog : www.artresin.com/blogs/artresin/how-to-make-ocean-resin-art

[@cbrm3067]

Great video as always from Art resin team.Thanks.I've been using a torch on a heat resistant resin but I keep getting dimples from the torch, but if I don't hold it close enough it doesn't pop the bubbles, do you have any tips about this. .

[@Artresin]

When torching, you just need to pass the flame across the resin surface and you will see the bubbles disappear, being careful not to let your flame linger in one spot as you risk scorching your resin surface. Some torches have adjustments for the flame size, so if you are covering a larger area you can use a larger flame and vice versa. Use your torch while the resin is still fresh, not once it has started to cure to avoid disrupting the surface of your resin.

[@CandisiaCreations]

My anxiety watching the propane torch flame with the other propane canister near it 😭. Thank you for this video ❤️

[@humor2010]

Thanks for the video, very helpful instructions. I noticed when using the torch my resin has got extra heat + started to cure fast! Is that OK?

[@Artresin]

Using the torch should not cause the resin to heat or cure fast. It is possible you are having an exothermic reaction if your piece is poured very thick or if there is limited air getting to your surface area. Our customer service team would be happy to assist further, you can contact them at [e-mail]

[@AngelasMixedMediaArtist]

I never used torch and I don’t get bubbles at all?

[@carlawoolsey4570]

I normally have newspaper under my art work. I've used cheap plastic tablecloths also. The art work is raised about 3" with yogurt cups. I've used chef torches, but I'm thinking about getting the "big boy" torch. Any problem using newspaper or plastic table cover?

[@Artresin]

Carla - We use plastic often. Just use caution with your flame to be sure it stays on your piece :)

[@user-fc3sx2cw5x]

Hi, thank you so much for this informative video! However, I’d like to ask: I am considering to buy a candle lighter that is powered by butane gas. But I don’t want to go ahead and purchase this candle lighter yet because I am wondering, would it actually work for popping out bubbles in resin? By the way, in case this helps you to answering my questions, I only make small creations with the resin using silicone moulds most of the time (maximum size would be jewellery sizes, nothing bigger) so I don’t really need big powerful gas. What I mean by this, is I can live with less power I.e. time consuming torching; all I care about is whether it will get rid of the bubbles or not, as quickness and efficiency don’t bother me at the moment. So, would the candle lighter I mentioned work for my own situation?

[@Artresin]

It very well could work for you. The only down side to those candle lighters is the flame isn't as powerful or controlled. If you are comfortable using them I think it would be worth trying on your smaller pieces.

[@DonaldMelton]

question , you covered how to adjust the flame on the small torch , however you didn't say how big the flame should be when torching the bubbles out of resin . so should the torch be on low , medium or on high flame ?

[@Artresin]

Hi Donald. The flame is adjustable so if you are working on a larger resin surface you can use a larger flame, if your area is smaller you won't require that much flame. The most important thing to remember is to always keep the flame moving, you just want it to kiss the top of the resin to clear the bubbles. You don't want to keep passing over the same area and end up scorching your resin.

[@Li-jy5un]

Blessingss, I love your work and how you teaching us, could you please tell me where to buy the small torch, Thanks. My Best Regards for you and your Family

[@Artresin]

Hi Llileana, thank you for the kind words, all the best to you and yours as well. You can find the Artist's Studio Torch on our website www.artresin.com/products/artists-torch-pro

[@Li-jy5un]

Thanks, you are the Best

[@sydneyblum5109]

I may have missed it. But did you address the possible damage to silicone moulds if you use a torch? What are your recommendations for that?

[@Artresin]

We do not recommend using a torch on silicone molds as it will cause the silicone to fuse to the resin and result in tearing your molds. Instead, you can use a spritz of isopropyl alcohol on the surface to clear off any bubbles that have risen to the top.

[@traceycorley6764]

What if the bubbles keep coming back?

[@evankafka1004]

What is the difference between your artist's head for propane and a standard head from the hardware store? Thanks

[@Artresin]

Hi Evan, if you have a head from the hardware store it will do the same job. However our torch head now comes with a flange that helps to spread out the flame :) www.artresin.com/products/artists-propane-torch-head

[@mrspankytank2858]

To avoid a film (oil streak) on the top of the surface which fuel is better or cleaner?? Propane or Butane??

[@Artresin]

We have not had a problem with a properly functioning torch leaving a film on the resin surface. The flame from your torch really just passes over the surface very quickly. We love the handy butane torch for small areas, whereas the large propane torch head covers a larger area for bigger canvasses.

[@bassplayer60]

Can Art Resin be used over photography paper? or photos?

[@Artresin]

Yes absolutely! ArtResin makes photos pop and gives them a protective glassy coating. You may want to seal your photo first depending on the paper. Here is some more information: www.artresin.com/blogs/artresin/how-to-resin-a-glossy-photo?_pos=2&_sid=ee6714749&_ss=r

[@JanineMKartist]

Is the studio torch easier to use than the smaller one? - in therms if clicking the back button to get the flame on and off ?

[@Artresin]

Hi Janine, the Artists Studio Torch is our smallest torch. Some artists find it easier to use our propane head attachment with flame spreader on a handheld propane tank. It's really up to you and the size of your artwork.

[@JanineMKartist]

ArtResin I noticed you have an improved model of that torch. Mine has the black switch on the back. I was wondering f if the one in this video with the red is easier to use. That’s my question .

[@Artresin]

Hi @@JanineMKartist , it sounds like you have an older model of our Artist's Studio Torch. Both models are easy to use and user friendly :)

[@juoshiro1292]

Can I use resin on top of portrait oil painting?

[@Artresin]

Yes you can apply ArtResin over an oil painting, you just need to let the oil paint cure completely....which can sometimes take a long time.

[@dakshayaenibharadwaj2185]

hi...so we cannot use alcohol inks if we're using a torch right? what could be the other alternatives pls? Im from India

[@Artresin]

Yes, you definitely want to avoid using an open flame with alcohol inks. To help reduce bubbles you can use a warm water bath prior to mixing and then a spritz of 90% isopropyl alcohol on the surface can eliminate any bubbles that rise.

[@erikaaquino4918]

Is that for epoxy resin only or for uv resin too?

[@Artresin]

Hi Erika, this video is for how to use a torch with ArtResin Epoxy Resin www.artresin.com

[@con-rob]

I make small pieces using silicon molds. How do I get the bubbles out without deforming the silicon? Should I not use a torch? Can I put it in the oven temporarily? What should I do?

[@Artresin]

The best way to reduce bubbles in your small molds is to use a warm water bath first, before mixing the resin and hardener. The warmer resin and hardener will have a lower viscosity which will make it easier for the bubbles to release. Second, you want to pour in layers of about 1/8", this will prevent bubbles from being trapped in a thick layer and they will remain close to the surface. Some artists use a spritz of isopropyl alcohol on the surface to clear the bubbles in their silicone molds. We do not recommend using a torch on silicone molds as it can lead to the molds sticking to the resin.

[@con-rob]

@@Artresin Thank you! How else would you make small epoxy crafts without silicon molds? Or do those people only do the warm water bath and never use torches? Also, Are there other mold materials other than silicon for small crafts that would be torch resistant?

[@Artresin]

@@con-rob Silicone molds are the best option for molds, some artists do use a torch but it is important to know it can damage the mold and cause sticking. The alcohol spritz works well to clear surface bubbles without damage.

[@user-hw1kk7nt8z]

FYI when using the larger torch such as the green/blue canisters, always remove the nozzle/heads before storing it! 💥

[@Artresin]

Thats a good idea :)

[@nataliefowler1733]

Can you suggest anything to cover my barstools while they are drying with my resin.

[@Artresin]

Hi Natalie - You are going to have to piece together something custom. Maybe using a sheet of plastic or vinyl and making something similar to a tent or fort ( like a child would use to play in) that may work and you could fit a few underneath.

[@nataliefowler1733]

@@Artresin Thank you for getting back to me. I will try that.

[@drippymenace7379]

Hi how long after I apply resin should I wait to torch?

[@Artresin]

Once mixed, you have a working time of approximately 45 minutes. You will want to have all of your pouring and torching done within this timeframe.

[@serenamadison8281]

What about bubbles that haven't risen to the surface when working with silicone moulds?

[@Artresin]

To help reduce bubbles we recommend using a warm water bath prior to mixing. This will help the resin to be less viscous and allow for bubbles to rise to the surface easier. Pouring in shallow layers rather than a deep pour will help as well. Some artists like to use a spritz of isopropyl alcohol on the surface to zap bubbles.

[@kentgulley5259]

What brand of torch is the smaller one ?

[@Artresin]

That is our studio torch and can be found at www.artresin.com :)

[@jaredschrock5270]

I saw a video where someone said her resin wouldn't come out of the silicon mold because she used a flame, but when used a heat gun her mold came out with no issues. Have you ever heard of this happening?

[@DLG06102024]

What is the brand of torch that you use?

[@Artresin]

We are using the Artist Studio Torch and Propane Torch Head, you can find them through this link: www.artresin.com/collections/accessories

[@carriemcarthur2121]

I used my torch on a project and got a yellowish, brownish, green spot. Is there away to correct that, like sanding or do I need to strip my project?

[@Artresin]

Hi Carrie, it sounds like you have over torched that area and burnt the resin. You can try to debulk as much of the burnt area as possible by sanding, then pour more resin to see if that diminishes it enough.

[@carriemcarthur2121]

@@Artresin ty...I did sand it down and just spray painted that area. It worked! Ty...now to keep and eye on how close I get with my torch and for how long.🤞

[@ravetown5796]

Can you use the torch for silicone resin like resin art in silicone?also what is the name of the torch I’m sorry I couldn’t really understand what you were saying

[@Artresin]

Aris, we don't recommend using a torch when using silicone molds as the heat may break down the molds causing it to stick. Now if you are referring to resin pours with silicone added in, you should be able to use a torch in that case. We are using our Artist Studio Torch and it can be found her: www.artresin.com

[@ravetown5796]

ArtResin ok thank you!! What should I use to get rid of all the bubbles in my resin when it’s in a silicone mold?

[@Artresin]

@@ravetown5796 a heat gun would help to minimize bubbles when using a mold :)

[@ravetown5796]

ArtResin thank you so much!!!!!

[@deloresrichards5991]

So if I add alcohol ink, spray paint, or mica powder to resin, don’t use a torch? How do I get rid of bubbles in that situation?

[@Artresin]

You do not want to use a torch with flammable ingredients. You can do a few things to minimize bubbles in this case. Placing the product in a warm water bath prior to use will help to lessen the amount of bubbles. Also after mixing your product allowing it to sit for a few minutes to allow bubbles to rise to the surface and pop on their own may help.

[@m.s.4768]

Does my new torch already come with butane gas inside?

[@Artresin]

The Artist Studio Torch will not come with butane, you will want to purchase that separately :)

[@VincentFink]

I have tried this and the bubbles seem to stay and piece catches fire instead of killing bubbles. Help!

[@Artresin]

Hi Vincent-are you using ArtResin? The torch flame is just meant to skim the surface of the freshly poured resin, don't let it linger in one area. You should see the bubbles clear away easily from the surface. You do not want to torch so long that you heat the resin to burning!

[@lizashurland1720]

Why does my torch keep going out when passed over certain areas of the canvas?

[@Artresin]

try adding more fuel, it could be getting low on fuel and changing the angle as you torch makes it sputter and go out.

[@bassplayer60]

how do you turn it off?

[@Artresin]

If you have the red slider on the side turned to continuous, that will keep your torch running until you press the red thumb trigger again. If you do not have it set to continuous, the flame will stop when you remove your thumb from the trigger button.

[@larisafernandes5096]

Hi, what if we don't have a torch??

[@Artresin]

Hi Larisa, the torch is the absolute best way to eliminate surface bubbles. If you do not have a torch, Joanne touches on some other less effective options in the video. If you do a lot of work with resin you may want to consider the small investment of a butane torch for best results.

[@bbmaker5022]

When I use my butane torch as soon as it goes near my piece the flame goes wild and orange, what am I doing wrong? Freaks me right out

[@Artresin]

Try turning down your flame a bit and only let the flame kiss the surface of your poured resin.

[@cielovalle-fo7if]

Not me waiting until she actually touches the resin with the flame because I’m terrified of starting a fire

[@Artresin]

Hi Cielo.valle, you just want to pass your torch flame along the surface of your resin, you don't want to let it linger in one spot. The quick pass of the flame will burst any bubbles but not burn the resin.

[@ishagoel1131]

I was Using torch for Making alphabets and My mould starts burning and I think due to that reason.. It's really hard to demoulding all the alphabets.. Do You have any suggestions how to use torch properly on alphabets or using anything else???

[@Artresin]

We do not recommend using a torch on resin in a silicone mold. The high heat from the flame can fuse the resin to the silicone and actually damage the mold, making it very hard to remove without ripping. The torch is best used when pouring your ArtResin over a canvas or flat surface.

[@ishagoel1131]

@@Artresin So how to pop mould's bubbles??

[@Artresin]

@@ishagoel1131 use a warm water bath first to help reduce bubbles, then pour in shallow layers of approximately 1/8". Some artists use a spritz of isopropyl alcohol to clear bubbles from the surface.

[@ishagoel1131]

@@Artresin Thank you for replies ❤🤗

[@afitrafiatna4160]

Why my resin is burning with fire. Is it because it's too close?

[@Artresin]

Yes you must be way too close. The very tip of the flame should just barely kiss the top of the resin and you will want to keep it moving in a steady ironing motion. The whole process is very fast :)

[@aftersunset63]

What makes art resin non toxic?

[@Artresin]

ArtResin is non-toxic when used as directed. This means that if you follow the instructions for use, there is no cause for concern or risk to one’s health. We've had our product evaluated by the American Society for Testing and Materials; ArtResin conforms to ASTM D4236: Safe for Home Use. Here is our blog for more information: www.artresin.com/blogs/artresin/how-is-artresin-non-toxic-when-is-it-not-non-toxic

[@AleenaZahid]

Which thing fill resin torch?

[@Artresin]

For our Artist Studio Torch you will want to purchase butane :)

[@601Moni]

Can you use a lighter?

[@Artresin]

Using a torch is the number one way to achieve a flawless, resin finish, free of bubbles. When you catalyze your ArtResin mixture, you create a lot of bubbles as you stir. Those bubbles need to be eliminated or they'll cure right into your piece. The flame from a torch heats the resin surface up instantly, thinning it out and allowing bubbles to escape very easily. Not only does a torch provide the pro results you're looking for, but has the added benefit of burning off tiny dust particles that may have landed in the resin. Here is our blog for more information: www.artresin.com/blogs/artresin/why-use-a-torch-with-artresin

[@8thsinner]

Yeah, poly resins do catch flame however, very easily. Nice video though

[@Artresin]

Always be careful not to over torch. It just takes a quick pass of the flame to clear the surface bubbles.

[@jodimarenheckethornes6705]

Why might my torch seem to catch fire?

[@Artresin]

Hi Jodi. I am not sure exactly what you mean. Is the flame too big? Is there something maybe spilt on your torch? It also could be possible that something is wrong with the torch. If this is one of our torches please contact us at [e-mail] so we can make sure you have a safe and properly working torch. If it is another company please reach out them. We want you to be safe :)

[@mjaxonrox]

Could i use a butane torch on a river table

[@Artresin]

Yes you can! The key is to just pass the torch quickly over the surface of the resin and the bubbles will easily disappear from the surface.

[@marcchomel7476]

is there some reason you don't provide written instructions with your product? I guess you are screwed if you don't have the internet. Now I have to find butane that fits the torch, something you do not sell.

[@Artresin]

Hi Marc, the instructions are printed onto the packaging. They can sometimes be easily discarded without realizing it. If you need a copy please email us at [e-mail] and we can send over a PDF.

[@justinwallace7036]

internet scary

[@coraecho4268]

Hi, I know you are going to think this is dumb... great demonstration on how to turn the torches on.... but you missed the most important step. TURNING IT OFF... You say it is important to do this. BUT FAILED TO DEMONSTRATE THIS PROCESS. LIKE IT IS A GIVEN and everyone know how to do this step. So I liked the thing even what the heat gun can do and I will probably try... but the big question I am taking away from this is one must use all the butane and let it burn off ... kind of a waste. But So far that is the only option I see with this demonstration. So My question is how long must one hold one of these torches till it has burned off. I use a walker because I am limited. So perhaps this might not be for me after all.

[@Artresin]

Hi Cora, you have two options when using the torch. Once you slide down the safety tab under the red button, depress the red button with your thumb. This will light the torch. If you take your thumb off the red button, the flame will go out. Alternately, once lit you can slide the red sliding tab on the left side of the torch, this will keep the flame burning continuously. To turn it off just slide the red tab forward.

[@erikamarsolais8663]

just curious but aren't u suposed to wear a mask for the chemicals

[@Artresin]

Hi Erika, we are happy to tell you that ArtResin is non-toxic and does not produce fumes. If you are working in a well ventilated area a mask is not required 🙂 Here is a link to a blog with more information: www.artresin.com/blogs/artresin/what-safety-precautions-should-i-take-when-using-artresin?_pos=3&_sid=b23405d37&_ss=r

[@mosqueraaa]

Something I didn't found in any guide is how much time you need to wait for use the torch, I mean, epoxy is inflammable and all the gasses it throws when you just apply the epoxy is crazy And if you wait too much...torch won't do shit I'm just starting with epoxy

[@Artresin]

With ArtResin you will want to torch your piece once your resin is applied and spread out. It is meant to be a very quick process with the flame just barely kissing the surface of the resin. You also have a 45 minute working time so you will not want to torch beyond that point our you may damage your piece. You will want to check with the manufacturer of the specific brand you are using on working times as they vary.

[@mosqueraaa]

@@Artresin i have 15-20 mins based off the room temperature

[@MileyonDisney]

NEVER use a torch on resin IN A MOLD!!! No matter how careful you try to be, you will melt the resin and mold together, ruining them both.

[@Artresin]

Good advice!

[@QueenMary01]

You don’t even show us how to use the torch until we are more than half way into the video

[@Artresin]

If you have any questions, please let us know :).

[@Beexxxx]

Where's the PPE?!?!??! mask gloves ???

[@Artresin]

ArtResin is non toxic and does not produce fumes, a respirator is not required when used in a well ventilated area. It is important to avoid contact with skin so you can see that Joanne is wearing her gloves while mixing and pouring her pieces. For more on safety, please have a look at our blog: www.artresin.com/blogs/artresin/what-safety-precautions-should-i-take-when-using-artresin?_pos=3&_sid=507e6e60b&_ss=r