Is Epoxy Resin Safe? Safety Tips for Home Artists

Resin art is a wonderful hobby and business, and it's safe to do at home when you follow a few simple rules. Liquid resin and hardener are chemicals, so treat them with care, just like paints or cleaning products. Here's how to protect yourself and your family.

Why safety matters

Uncured resin and hardener can irritate skin and eyes, and repeated skin contact can lead to sensitivity over time. Fumes can be unpleasant in closed rooms, and sanding cured resin creates fine dust. All of this is easy to manage.

The 8 basic safety rules

1. Wear nitrile gloves every time. Latex gloves can let resin through.
2. Protect your eyes with safety glasses when mixing, pouring and sanding.
3. Work in a ventilated room. Open a window or use an exhaust fan.
4. Wear a mask or respirator in small rooms, during long sessions, and always when sanding.
5. Cover your arms with full sleeves or an apron.
6. Keep resin away from children, pets and food. Never use kitchen bowls or spoons.
7. Don't eat or drink in your resin area.
8. Read and follow the instructions on your kit.

If resin gets on your skin

• Wipe off as much as you can with a paper towel.
• Wash with soap and plenty of water.
• Don't use solvents on your skin.
• If irritation continues, consult a doctor.

📌 Good to know: If resin gets in your eyes, rinse with clean running water for several minutes and get medical help.

Safe storage and clean-up

• Store bottles tightly closed, upright, in a cool, dark place away from children.
• Let leftover mixed resin cure fully in the cup before throwing it away. Don't pour liquid resin down the sink.
• Clean tools with paper towels and isopropyl alcohol before the resin sets.
• Sand cured resin with a mask on, and wipe the dust with a damp cloth.

Is cured resin safe?

Once fully cured, resin is hard and stable for decorative use. Food safety depends on the specific product and its certification, so don't use resin pieces for direct food contact unless the product is clearly labelled as food safe. Use your trays and coasters with a liner or for serving packaged items.

New to resin? Start with our materials list, which includes all the safety gear.

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FAQs

Is epoxy resin toxic?

Liquid resin and hardener can irritate skin, eyes and lungs, so use gloves, glasses and ventilation. Fully cured resin is solid and stable.

Can I do resin art indoors?

Yes, in a well-ventilated room with a window open or an exhaust fan running.

Can pregnant women do resin art?

Talk to your doctor first. Many people choose to avoid chemical hobbies during pregnancy.