Epoxy Resin Still Sticky? 7 Easy Fixes for a Perfect Finish
Epoxy Resin Still Sticky? 7 Easy Fixes for a Perfect Finish
If your epoxy resin still sticky after hours—or even days—you’re not alone.
I remember my first big resin pour on a walnut tabletop: it looked like liquid glass under the shop lights,
but the next morning it was tacky, leaving fingerprints. Let’s look at why epoxy resin still sticky
happens and, more importantly, how to fix it so you get a crystal‑clear, rock‑hard finish every time.
Why Epoxy Resin Still Sticky Happens
1) Wrong Mixing Ratio
Epoxy is a two‑part system: resin (Part A) and hardener (Part B). If the ratio is off, the reaction won’t complete
and you’ll get sticky epoxy. Pro tip: always check the
TDS for the exact ratio—some systems are 1:1, others 3:1.
2) Incomplete Mixing
Think of epoxy like baking: if flour isn’t fully mixed, the cake fails. Scrape the sides and bottom, fold the mix,
and stir for 3–5 minutes to avoid soft spots that stay tacky.
3) Low Temperature
Below 15°C (59°F), curing slows dramatically. Aim for 20–25°C (68–77°F) to keep momentum and avoid a sticky surface.
4) High Humidity
Humidity above ~85% can interfere with the hardener and leave a cloudy, gummy film—very common in rainy seasons.
If you can, dehumidify or warm the workspace.
5) Wrong Product for the Job
Decorative resin used for thick pours can stay soft. For deep pours, try
3230AB Deep Pour Resin;
for coating, 316AB Dome Coating keeps a smooth, hard gloss.
7 Easy Fixes for Epoxy Resin Still Sticky
- Lightly tacky surface: sand and recoat with a correct mix.
- Slightly soft: apply gentle heat to encourage curing (don’t scorch).
- Very sticky or gooey: scrape off, wipe with isopropyl alcohol, and repour.
- Ensure correct ratio: measure with a digital scale, not by eye.
- Mix thoroughly: scrape and fold; stir slowly to reduce bubbles.
- Control the environment: keep warm and dry during curing.
- Use proven resins:
PU Soft 8300AB for flexible potting and
UV 8106A for fast, hard clear finishes.
Epoxy Resin Parameter Comparison
| Model | Mix Ratio | Ideal Temp | Initial Cure | Final Cure | Shore Hardness | Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PU Soft 8300AB | 1:1 | 20–25°C | 8–10 hrs | 24 hrs | 60–65D | Flexible potting, LED strips |
| UV 8106A | UV cured | Room temp | 2–5 min (LED) | 10 min | 82D | Jewelry, crafts |
| 3230AB | 2:1 | 20–25°C | 12–16 hrs | 48 hrs | 80–85D | Deep pour tables |
| 316AB | 3:1 | 20–25°C | 6–8 hrs | 24 hrs | 85–90D | Dome coating |
Before & After
External Resource
For more curing tips, check
ArtResin’s guide on epoxy curing
.
Need Help Choosing the Right Resin?
When epoxy resin still sticky happens, it isn’t the end of your project.
Fix the cause—mixing, environment, or product choice—and your finish will be flawless.
Contact us for free samples and TDS/SDS support.
