How to Fix Dimples in Epoxy Resin

How to Fix Dimples in Epoxy Resin - Full process and correct method of using this

You just completed your epoxy resin art and are excited to show it off to everyone, but you notice something uneven on the surface that looks like a dent or hole.

Do not panic; this uneven texture formed on the epoxy resin’s surface is a dimple. They are called names like holes, voids, divots, or fish eyes. If left untreated, these dimples ruin your artwork, giving it an uneven and unfinished look.

This article is your savior on how to fix those stubborn dimples that form on your epoxy resin. But before we look into the ‘How,’ let us look at the root cause of these dimples.

Why do dimples occur in epoxy resin –

Now that the unfortunate has happened, we need to look closely at why it happened before we start correcting it.

Dimples can be caused due to several reasons. It is necessary to pinpoint that one reason to ensure it does not happen again. Take a look at the significant culprits behind dimples.

1. The proportion was improper – while mixing the epoxy resin and hardener, if one element is in more quantity than the other, it may react differently and release gases that may come out as bubbles, which, when it burst, become dents.

2. The surface was uneven – the surface you are pouring the resin onto may not be even, creating these dents. One way to avoid it is by sanding down the surface and making it even before you start.

3. Foreign particles – due to the presence of foreign particles on the surface or in the mix, dimples may occur

4. The fluctuation in temperature – these dimples may form due to a variation in the room temperature you are working in. Make sure to maintain the room temperature throughout the project.

5. Overtorching – This is also one of the causes behind dimples.

What do you need to fix dimples in epoxy resin –

How to Fix Dimples in Epoxy Resin - How to do it and does it work

Depending upon the dimple type, you only require minimal tools to fix your dimples. The following are the tools you need:

1. Hair dryer or heat gun – to melt the epoxy around the dent and fill it.

2. Epoxy resin – to fill the dent with resin

3. Toothpick or a sharp object – to make the dent even

4. Scrape – to remove the excess epoxy resin.

5. Sandpaper – to smoothen the epoxy surface after correcting the dent

6. Paper towel

7. Gloves, goggles, and masks for protection.

Make sure to identify the type of dent before you treat them; otherwise, the situation will become even worse and more expensive.

Now let us move directly into how to fix these unsightly dimples.

Steps to be followed to fix dimples in epoxy resin –

Since dimples are caused due to many reasons, it is only logical to approach them according to their cause. Ensure that you keep all the necessary items ready before you move on to fix the dimple.

Method 1 – For relatively small dimples –

How to Fix Dimples in Epoxy Resin - Step by Step instructions and method

Use a Heat gun or hair dryer to fix the dimple.

1. If the dimple is small, use a heat gun or hair dryer to move the epoxy resin and fill out the dent.

2. The heat from the gun will make the resin flow and fix the dimple

3. However, make sure you do not hold the heat gun too close to the resin, as there are chances that it may melt.

Method 2 – For tiny dimples –

When the dimple is tiny, follow these steps to fix the dimple.

1. Take a toothpick or sharp object that can prick the dimple.

2. Press onto the dimple along its depth.

3. The idea is to break the surface tension and even out the surface.

Method 3 – For dimples that are 1/16 inch deep or more –

You need first to determine the depth of the dimple to fix it.

1. Mix equal parts of epoxy resin and hardener and stir thoroughly until the solution is completely dissolved.

2. Pour the required solution into the dimple until the dent is filled.

3. Leave the epoxy resin for 24 hours until it is cured completely.

3. If there is excess resin, consider sanding down for a finished look.

Method 4 – For dimples that are too uneven and difficult to fix –

How to Fix Dimples in Epoxy Resin - How to do it and the full processAdding a fresh layer of epoxy resin is the cure for such dimples. However, this fix is expensive as you are repeating the whole process.

1. Mix equal parts of epoxy resin and hardening agent in a silicone cup.

2. Stir the solution thoroughly until there are no lumps.

3. You can stop stirring when the solution becomes cloudy. It is the consistency we are looking for.

4. Before applying to the surface, make sure the surface is sanded and made even.

5. Pour the solution evenly onto the surface and make sure it covers the edge.

6. Burst any bubbles that may form with a needle, toothpick, or sharp object.

7. Leave it undisturbed for 24 hours. After that, your epoxy resin will be dimple free.

Tips to keep in mind while fixing dimples in epoxy resin –

1. Identify the dimple type – it is essential to identify the kind of dimple to ensure that you efficiently fix it. Dimples can be differentiated based on their depth, temperature, presence of foreign particles, or composition of the resin mix

2. While using a hair dryer or heat gun to even out the surface and fill the dent, ensure you do not bring the device too close to the resin, as the epoxy resin may melt and form undesired textures.

3. Make sure that the epoxy resin and hardener solution are wholly mixed before it is poured.

Lumps in the mix may form dimples, and the wrong composition of the elements may also excrete gases that may form bubbles that may lead to the formation of dents.

FAQ –

How much resin should be used while flood-coating the dimples?

While flood-coating the dimples, ensure you only create a skinny layer of resin sufficient to fill the dimples and leave a smooth surface.

Do not overpour the resin, as it will increase the chances of forming new dimples.

Can I fix dimples on an epoxy resin that has already been cured?

Yes, epoxy resins that have already been cured can be fixed for dimples. You can add a fresh layer of epoxy resin o top of it to improve the dimple.

Make sure you evenly distribute the flood coat across the surface.

Why do I get dimples on my epoxy resin?

Dimples on epoxy resins are caused due to many reasons like improper mixing of resin, fluctuation in the room temperature, presence of foreign particles, or because the surface was uneven.

You can prevent them by keeping the cause of dimples in mind and ensuring you do not commit these mistakes.

Conclusion –

Epoxy resins are beautiful craft creations that are satisfying to create and look at. However, dimples create those distractions that snatch away the beauty of these resins.

Now that you know how they are formed and how you fix them if they appear, go ahead and fearlessly create those epoxy resin artwork. Ensure you do not make any new imperfections while correcting your old ones!