Common Resin Problems in Winter

Resin art is a rewarding and creative outlet—whether you’re making shimmering jewelry, functional coasters, or stunning river tables. But when temperatures drop, your resin may start behaving differently. Winter introduces a unique set of challenges for epoxy users, especially when working in cold garages, basements, or outdoor studios.

If your recent projects have been slow to cure, cloudy, or full of bubbles, you’re not alone. These issues are extremely common in cold weather. This guide explains why they happen and gives you clear, practical steps to achieve flawless results all winter long.

By understanding how temperature impacts epoxy chemistry, you can adjust your process and keep creating beautiful pieces—no matter the season.

Problems

Working with epoxy is part art, part science—and temperature is one of the most important variables. Epoxy resins cure through a chemical reaction that is highly sensitive to cold temperatures. When the environment is too chilly, several problems can arise:

1. Slow or Incomplete Curing

Pouring a project and finding it sticky the next day is one of the most frustrating winter issues. Epoxy resin cures through an exothermic reaction, meaning it generates heat internally. Cold air pulls this heat away, slowing the reaction dramatically.

As a result:

·        Resin may take several extra days to cure

·        It may remain soft or tacky

·        It may never fully harden if the temperature stays too low

A prolonged cure also leaves your piece exposed to dust, debris, or fingerprints for longer than usual.

2. More Bubbles Than Usual

Crystal-clear resin is harder to achieve in winter. When resin and hardener get cold, their viscosity increases—they become thick, like chilled honey.

Thicker resin traps air more easily:

·        Mixing introduces micro-bubbles

·        Those bubbles struggle to rise and pop

·        Even with a heat gun, many remain suspended

·        The final piece may look cloudy or textured

This is why warming your resin is essential during the colder months.

3. Cloudy or Milky Resin (Amine Blush)

A cloudy or milky appearance—sometimes called amine blush—is another common winter issue. It occurs when moisture in the air interacts with curing epoxy.

Cold, humid environments create the perfect conditions for this, especially if you're working in an unheated space.

Cold resin can also crystallize in the bottle, appearing cloudy before you even begin. If you pour it without warming, the cloudiness can transfer directly into your artwork.

 

Solutions and Prevention

The good news: every one of these winter challenges is preventable. With a few adjustments, you can create the ideal environment for beautiful, bubble-free resin art.

1. Master Temperature Control

Temperature is the #1 factor in winter resin success.

Warm Your Workspace

The ideal curing temperature for most epoxy systems—including Easy Pour Epoxy—is 72–78°F (22–26°C).

·        Pre-heat your workspace before mixing

·        Keep the temperature stable from start of the project to the end of curing

·        Avoid working in unheated garages or sheds unless you can maintain warmth consistently

Warm Your Resin Bottles

Never mix cold resin.

Place sealed bottles of resin and hardener in a warm water bath for 15–20 minutes. This:

·        Lowers viscosity

·        Reduces bubbles

·        Makes mixing easier

·        Improves overall clarity

Just make sure to dry bottles completely before opening to avoid moisture contamination.

2. Refine Your Mixing Technique

Even warm resin can trap bubbles if mixed incorrectly.

Mix Slowly and Steadily

A slow, controlled stir reduces air introduction, ensures both parts blend thoroughly, and helps avoid streaks or soft spots.

Scrape the sides and bottom of your cup as you mix—don’t rush it.

Let the Resin Rest

After mixing for 3–5 minutes, let your resin sit for a couple of minutes. This allows bubbles to rise before you pour, improving clarity.

3. Store Your Resin Properly

Good storage prevents many winter issues before they start.

Keep Resin in a Temperature-Controlled Space

Store resin between normal room temperature ranges. A closet or interior cabinet is far better than a garage or shed.

Consistent temperatures prevent crystallization, cloudiness, and thickening.

If Your Resin Crystallizes…

Cold may cause the resin to become thick, grainy, or cloudy. This is normal and easy to fix:

·        Place the sealed bottle in warm water

·        Heat gently until fully clear

·        Let it reach room temperature before mixing

This restores the resin’s clarity and performance.

Recommended Products for Winter Resin Projects

If you want the smoothest results during the colder months, these Easy Pour Epoxy kits perform especially well in controlled indoor environments:

·        Deep Pour Epoxy Kit

Ideal for thicker pours like river tables and castings. Works best in warm, stabilized spaces to avoid winter curing delays.

·        Table Top Epoxy

Great for coating surfaces such as trays, coasters, and countertops. A warm workspace ensures that your finish stays glossy and bubble-free.

Tip: Keep all resin bottles stored indoors to maintain clarity and avoid winter crystallization.

 

Keep Creating All Winter Long

Winter doesn’t have to slow down your creativity. By understanding how temperature affects epoxy and taking a few proactive steps, you can avoid slow cures, bubbles, and cloudiness altogether.

Warm your workspace, prepare your materials, use proper storage techniques—and you’ll be ready to pour confidently, even on the coldest days. Every season brings new challenges, and mastering winter resin work will only strengthen your skills as an artist.