Information on Mixing Polyester Resin

You can use polyester resins to repair fiberglass boat hulls.

Polyester resins are versatile materials that you can use for many different applications. You can make slabs of marbled resin to use for furniture, repair and maintain boats and cast resin jewelry. You must mix resin properly for optimal results.

Types

Types of polyester resins include boat resins as well as clear and colored resins for jewelry making and other crafts. You can find clear doming resins for jewelry that form a transparent dome that magnifies designs or items inside the resin. Clear and colored resins can be mixed together to create interesting effects.

Features

Polyester resin usually comes in two parts: the resin and a hardener (also known as a catalyst). The resin remains liquid until you mix it with the catalyst. Once mixed, a chemical reaction begins that turns the liquid resin into a tough plastic.

Considerations

Use the right polyester resin for the job. You must mix the resin according to the manufacturer's instructions. The correct proportions vary from brand to brand. Mix the resin thoroughly to avoid a patchy cure.

References

• Google Books: Fiberglass Boat Repairs Illustrated by Roger Marshall
• Google Books: Popular Science Oct 1961
• Google Books: The Art of Jewelry: Plastic & Resin: Techniques, Projects, Inspiration by Debra Adelson

Resources

• Magnus & Bella: New Collection