How much hardener should be used with resin?
A guide to epoxy resin mixing ratios and product choices
Understanding the correct amount of hardener to use with your epoxy resin is essential for clear, durable, and successful results. This guide provides clarity on the most popular mixing ratios from ResinPro and is perfect for anyone working with resin—be it small handcraft jewellery makers or those tackling deep pour table projects. We break down which products require which ratio, why it matters, and how to choose the best resin system for your needs.
Epoxy Resin & Hardener: Comparing Mixing Ratios and Key Differences
The amount of hardener you mix with resin depends on the specific epoxy system. At ResinPro, the most common ratios are 1:1 by volume, 2:1 and 4:1 by weight, and 100:55 by weight. The ratio determines the resin’s physical properties, working time, and the curing process. Using the correct ratio is essential for clarity, hardness, and long-term performance. Some resins are extremely forgiving with simple ratios for beginners, while others are engineered for professional, extra-large projects where precision is critical.
Here’s a quick comparison of our leading resin systems:
- 1:1 Mixing Ratio (by volume): Very user-friendly, great for handcraft and jewellery projects.
- 2:1 Mixing Ratio (by weight): Ideal for surfaces, art, and general coatings, balancing ease of use with enhanced performance.
- 4:1 and 100:55 Ratios (by weight): Designed for thicker applications such as deep pour and large surface projects, optimising cure and reducing risk of overheating.
“One-2-One” – Epoxy Resin for Handcraft, 1:1 Mixing Ratio
The “One-2-One” – Epoxy Resin for Handcraft, 1:1 Mixing Ratio uses a highly intuitive equal-parts (by volume) mixing ratio. This means you simply combine equal amounts of resin and hardener, making it an excellent choice for jewellery, cabochons, coatings and decorative crafts. This non-toxic formulation offers a crystal clear, super-glossy finish and is durable against scratches and moisture. The easy 1:1 ratio minimises mistakes, ensuring reliable results for hobbyists and professionals alike.
“Icrystal” – Clear Epoxy Resin – 2:1 Mixing Ratio
The “Icrystal” – Clear Epoxy Resin – Odourless Formula – Up to 1.5cm is designed for layered applications up to 1.5cm. Its easy 2:1 resin to hardener mixing ratio (by weight) ensures a straightforward process for DIY, artistic, and woodworking projects. The odourless quality and crystal clear finish make it popular for coatings and decorative pours on tables and surfaces.
“EpoxyTable 5-Five” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables and Large Projects, 100:55 Ratio
When casting tabletops, countertops, or embedding objects up to 5cm thick, “EpoxyTable 5-Five” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables and Large Projects – Up to 5cm is a top choice. This resin employs a 100:55 ratio by weight (100 parts resin to 55 parts hardener). Strictly following this ratio is necessary for low exothermic reaction enabling thick, stable castings without overheating. The system is designed for long working time and low viscosity for bubble-free, easy pouring—ideal for creative and woodworking projects requiring reliable, scratchproof durability.
“Epoxytable 10-Ten” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin, 4:1 Mixing Ratio
For very deep casting jobs (up to 10cm per pour), “Epoxytable 10-Ten” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables, Up to 10cm Casting uses a strict 4:1 resin-to-hardener ratio (by weight). This formulation ensures formulated for deep pours up to 10cm thickness with low exothermic reaction preventing overheating and strong UV filters help prevent yellowing for up to 5 years. It’s engineered to perform in high-thickness, large-scale resin art and table projects.
Tips for Accurate Mixing and Choosing the Right Ratio
Always measure resin and hardener by the method specified on the product label—either by volume or by weight. Mixing inaccurate proportions can cause improper curing or tacky finishes. Use clean, dry containers and mix thoroughly, scraping sides and bottom to avoid unmixed patches. When working on large projects, pour in layers if needed to avoid overheating (especially with deep pour systems). If you’re unsure, opt for the product that fits your project’s scale and layer thickness, and follow recommended ratios for flawless results every time.
Get Reliable Results by Measuring Meticulously
Accurate measuring tools and careful preparation are vital for any epoxy mixing. Explore guides and video content to see correct measurement and mixing in practice—giving you confidence to mix ratios like a pro.
"One-2-One" – Epoxy Resin for Handcraft, 1:1 Mixing RatioPrice range: £15.95 through £59.95"One-2-One" epoxy resin offers a non-toxic, medium viscosity formula with an easy 1:1 mixing ratio for crafting projects.
“Epoxytable 10-Ten” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables, Up to 10cm CastingPrice range: £35.95 through £351.95“Epoxytable 10-Ten” is suitable for creating deep pour resin tables and artistic projects up to 10cm thick.
"Icrystal" – Clear Epoxy Resin – Odourless Formula – Up to 1.5cmPrice range: £12.45 through £341.45"Icrystal" clear epoxy resin offers a transparent, odourless formula with a 2:1 mixing ratio, suitable for various creative and surface applications.
"EpoxyTable 5-Five" – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables and Large Projects – Up to 5cmPrice range: £17.95 through £1,154.95"EpoxyTable 5-Five" is designed for creating tables and large projects with deep pour capability up to 5cm, suitable for consistent results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common resin to hardener ratio?
The most common mixing ratios are 1:1 by volume, 2:1 and 4:1 by weight, depending on the epoxy resin system.
Should I mix resin and hardener by weight or by volume?
Always follow the instructions on the product label—some resins use weight, others use volume. Incorrect method can cause curing issues.
What happens if I use the wrong ratio?
Using too much or too little hardener can result in tacky, soft, or uncured resin, or even impact strength and clarity.
Is the hardener the same for all epoxy resin systems?
No, each epoxy system is engineered with its own hardener and mixing ratio. Always use the matched hardener and follow the specified ratio.
What’s the best mixing ratio for jewellery resin?
A 1:1 ratio by volume is preferred for jewellery projects as it ensures easy measuring and consistent, glossy results.
How do I mix deep pour resin correctly?
Check the product label—some require a 4:1 or 100:55 ratio by weight. Pour in layers if exceeding maximum depth to avoid overheating.
Why do most table resins use mixing by weight?
Mixing by weight provides greater accuracy for larger amounts and ensures optimal curing in deep pour and table projects.
Google






