Will Epoxy Work On Glass?

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Epoxy resin is a versatile adhesive used in different crafts and projects. But many people are curious if they can use the compound on glass. So, will epoxy work on glass surfaces?

Epoxy can work on glass with the correct techniques. Glass and resin don’t expand at the same temperatures, which can cause cracks and breakage. Clean and scratch the glass surface beforehand to help the epoxy adhere. Epoxy is not dishwasher or microwave safe and must be washed by hand.

Don’t feel intimidated if you’re starting your first epoxy project or epoxy glass craft. There’s a lot to consider and learn beforehand. Luckily, we cover everything you need to know in the article below. Read on for more information.

What is Epoxy Made Out of?

hands in gloves, stirring a green dye with a wooden spatula in a plastic glass with epoxy resin

Epoxy resin is a commonly used adhesive material to bind two or more objects together in woodworking, metalworking, craft projects, and more.

Epoxy resins typically include four ingredients: monomeric resin, a hardener, an accelerator, and a plasticizer.

Epoxy can be used on various surfaces but cannot adhere to plastic, silicone, vinyl, rubber, or wax paper.

Will Epoxy Stick to Glass?

Epoxy resin isn’t very sticky but can be used on glass as a glue with the correct techniques. However, there are certain risks to keep in mind. Glass and resin don’t expand and contract at the same temperatures, which can cause cracks and breakage.

The glass must also be clean, dry, and prepared ahead of time for the epoxy to adhere. Without the correct techniques, epoxy can separate from the glass surface or crack. Finally, epoxy isn’t dishwasher or microwave safe and must be washed by hand.

What Other Materials are Needed?

You’ll need a few different materials to apply epoxy to glass. The glass surface must be cleaned, prepared, and scratched ahead of time to ensure the epoxy adheres to the surface.

Besides the epoxy glue, you’ll also need basic supplies like gloves, containers, drop cloths, rags, and more.

Basic Supplies

Epoxy resin projects require basic supplies to ensure the best results and an easy clean-up process. However, using the right equipment can save you time, effort, and money. Most of the tools listed can be found at your local hardware store or online at affordable prices.

  • Disposable Gloves
  • Apron/Old Clothes
  • Plastic Drop Sheet
  • Masking Tape
  • Plastic Container
  • Plastic Measuring Cup
  • Plastic Stir Stick
  • Plastic Spreader
  • Toothpicks
  • Dust Cover
  • Alcohol and Paper Towel
  • Hand Cleaner

These tools won’t be required for all projects, but gloves, drop cloths, and plastic containers are a must-have. Also, use plastic containers, stir sticks, spreaders, and measuring cups, as epoxy doesn’t stick to plastic.

Pure Acetone and Rags

Preparation is one of the most critical aspects of epoxy projects, regardless of the material. Pure acetone (on Amazon) is necessary to clean the glass surface and remove oil, dirt, and other debris.

In addition, the acetone helps the epoxy penetrate the surface, while the Rags help you apply the liquid.

An Abrasive Material

During preparation, you’ll also need an abrasive material to scratch the surface of the glass without breaking it. Scratching the surface creates a rough tooth, allowing the epoxy to stick better.

You can use a sharpening stone (on Amazon), nail file, sandpaper, or another abrasive to scratch the surface of the glass.

How to Apply Epoxy to Glass

The application process for epoxy and glass will vary depending on the scope of the project. That said, we cover the basics below to get you started and give you a better idea of what to expect. Here’s how to apply epoxy to glass.

Step 1: Prepare Your Work Area

Preparing your work area and equipment is the first step to ensuring your project goes smoothly.

You’ll want a clean, dry surface to work on, and you may want to use a drop cloth to prevent spills. Gather your plastic mixing containers, stir sticks, rags, gloves, and other equipment.

Step 2: Prepare Your Glass

The second step is to prepare the glass surface you’re working on. Wipe down the surface with pure acetone and a rag to remove oil, dirt, and other debris. Follow all safety precautions when using acetone or other solvents.

Let the surface dry completely. Then, you can use a heat gun or fan to speed up the drying process.

Afterward, scratch the surface with a sharpening stone (on Amazon), sandpaper, or a similar abrasive material. Scratching the surface will help the epoxy adhere to the surface. Depending on the type of project, you may want to tape certain areas of the surface with masking tape.

Step 3: Prepare Your Epoxy

Once the glass is prepared, mix your epoxy resin if necessary. Each epoxy product will have different guidelines, so follow all the instructions and safety guidelines for the best result.

Step 4: Apply the Epoxy

Now, you can apply the epoxy resin to the glass surface. You can use a plastic spreader or scraper to apply the mixture evenly. Ensure you wear gloves and have a drop cloth in place to avoid spills.

After thoroughly applying the epoxy, wipe any excess to prevent build-up and residue. Follow all of the instructions and safety guidelines for the best results.

Step 5: Let the Epoxy Dry

Now that the epoxy is applied, let the glass dry according to the instructions and guidelines for your epoxy mixture. The timeframe can vary but typically takes 24 hours or more. You may need to hang your piece or place it in a certain position to allow it to dry completely.

What Other Materials Work Well with Epoxy?

Epoxy resin painting

Depending on the brand, epoxy resin can be used on various surfaces and materials. Some materials to consider for your next project include the following:

  • Acrylic paint
  • Watercolor paint
  • Oil paint
  • Spray paint
  • Photographs
  • Inkjet prints
  • Wood
  • Metal
  • Organic materials, like flowers, leaves, and rocks

These are a few of the materials you can use epoxy resin on. Epoxy does not typically stick to plastic, silicone, vinyl, rubber, or wax paper.

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