Resin Mastery: Exploring iCoat Epoxy

Resin Mastery: Exploring iCoat Epoxy

by Rachel and Ian
Crafts

Spring Cleaning Your Epoxy Resin Business, Ideas for Growth - Episode 16

Visit us online for museum-quality Epoxy Resin In this episode of the Resin Mastery Podcast, hosts Rachel and Ian discuss the concept of "spring cleaning" for resin artists and business owners, emphasizing that it goes beyond traditional cleaning. They encourage listeners to reassess their business practices, inventory, and marketing strategies as the seasons change. The conversation highlights the importance of evaluating what products and processes are still working, what needs to be updated or eliminated, and how staying aware of market trends and new tools such as AI-powered resources can provide valuable insights for business growth and adaptation. The hosts also address practical aspects of maintaining epoxy creations, responding to audience questions about cleaning and care. They recommend using simple glass cleaners like Windex for cleaning epoxy surfaces, noting that iCoat epoxy is non-porous and food-safe, making it ideal for items like countertops, charcuterie boards, and decorative pieces. This reassurance about product safety and ease of maintenance distinguishes iCoat epoxy from less regulated alternatives and underscores its suitability for both creative and functional applications. Finally, Rachel and Ian explore the value of refreshing creative ideas and product offerings in response to seasonal demand and shifting consumer interests. They suggest leveraging seasonal themes, sports fandom, and new materials-such as metal illusion mica powder-to keep products appealing and relevant. Throughout, they invite listener engagement and feedback, reinforcing their commitment to supporting the resin artist community with both inspiration and practical advice for thriving in a changing market. The marketing report that was mentioned https://globalcreativegroup.com/business-marketing-strategy-2025-letting-what-works-lead-the-way/ https://icoatepoxy.com tel: +1 602-258-1114 https://www.facebook.com/iCoatProducts/ Instagram @icoat.epoxy https://icoatepoxy.com/ai-agent/ Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com
E16
Apr 29, 2025
16:55

How We Test Every Batch of Epoxy So You Get Superior Results - Episode 15

Visit us online for museum-quality Epoxy Resin In this episode, the hosts visit iCoat’s offices to explore the rigorous quality control and production processes behind their epoxy resin products. The focus is on the steps taken to ensure every batch of resin is consistent, reliable, and meets high standards for both performance and safety. The discussion covers sourcing of raw materials, extensive testing protocols, batch retention for traceability, best practices for users, troubleshooting common issues, and the importance of maintaining controlled production environments. It’s no wonder iCoat is the clear industry leader in quality epoxy resin products. iCoat sources all raw materials from the United States to ensure quality and avoid issues associated with cheaper, less regulated imports from countries like India and China. Extensive testing is performed before, during, and after production, including drawdown and bubble release tests, to ensure batch consistency. Each batch is tested before bottling and again after bottling, with samples (retains) kept for at least a year and records maintained for up to five years for traceability. Testing includes casting samples in various molds to check for bubble release and clarity without using vacuum chambers or heat, relying on the resin’s natural properties. Production and testing are conducted in a controlled environment (72°F, controlled humidity) to minimize variables and ensure consistent results. Users are encouraged to replicate these controlled conditions in their own studios using heating mats, dehumidifiers, or air conditioning as needed. All epoxies will amber (yellow) slightly over time, but using high-quality, clean raw materials and UV-resistant additives minimizes this effect. iCoat’s products meet LEED Platinum standards and are food-grade/USDA approved, ensuring safety for food contact and environmental responsibility. Proper storage and prompt unboxing of finished pieces are important to prevent premature aging or yellowing of resin projects. Troubleshooting customer issues involves pulling retained samples from the relevant batch and recreating the customer’s conditions to diagnose problems, which are often due to user error such as incorrect mixing ratios or improper measuring tools. Maintaining accurate mixing ratios is critical; for their one-to-one epoxy, both parts must be equal by volume, not weight, as the components have different densities. Small deviations (up to 5%) in mixing ratios are generally acceptable, but larger discrepancies can cause curing issues. Warming resin before mixing (ideally to 80°F) reduces viscosity, making mixing easier and improving bubble release, but overheating should be avoided. The expected lifespan of a resin project depends on storage conditions and user handling; samples from as far back as 2019 still show excellent clarity and durability when properly stored. This episode provides a look at how iCoat maintains high standards in resin production and offers practical advice for both professionals and hobbyists to achieve the best results with their products. https://icoatepoxy.com tel: +1 602-258-1114 Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com
E15
Apr 25, 2025
18:02

Make Money with Every Epoxy Pour - Episode 14

Visit us online for museum-quality Epoxy Resin In the conversation, Rachel and Ian, hosts of the "Resin Mastery" podcast, discuss the growing business opportunities in resin art, particularly using iCoat Epoxy. They reflect on their experiences interviewing successful resin artists—primarily women—who have turned their passion for resin crafts into thriving businesses. The hosts note that the wedding bouquet preservation market, a popular niche, remains far from saturated, offering significant potential for newcomers. They emphasize that many of these entrepreneurs started with minimal investment, leveraging accessible knowledge resources, including AI-powered guidance, and affordable tools and materials to build profitable ventures. The discussion delves into the economics of resin art products, breaking down the costs and profits associated with popular items such as wedding bouquet blocks, coasters, trinket dishes, and ring holders. For example, a wedding bouquet resin block can yield impressive margins, with material costs significantly lower than the final sale price. The hosts highlight the scalability of the business, suggesting that even working from home or a small workshop, makers can generate substantial monthly profits by diversifying their offerings and upselling related products. They also share practical tips, such as using leftover resin for smaller items and collaborating with florists and wedding planners for referrals. Rachel and Ian encourage listeners to see resin art not just as a creative outlet but as a viable business model with low barriers to entry and high profit potential. They stress the importance of community, sharing case studies and strategies from experienced makers, and recommend leveraging local markets, fairs, and online resources to grow a customer base. The conversation concludes with a sense of optimism, framing resin artistry as a way to achieve personal fulfillment and financial independence, and inviting newcomers to access further guidance and resources through their website and podcast. https://icoatepoxy.com tel: +1 602-258-1114 https://www.facebook.com/iCoatProducts/ Instagram @icoat.epoxy https://icoatepoxy.com/ai-agent/ Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com
E14
Apr 22, 2025
18:53

TimBot 2.0: The Future of Resin Crafting: AI Solutions for Every Skill Level - Episode 13

Visit us online for museum-quality Epoxy Resin The conversation revolves around the integration of AI technology into the epoxy resin industry, as discussed by Rachel and Ian on their podcast, Resin Mastery. They introduce an innovative AI agent developed by iCoat Epoxy that serves as a knowledge base for resin users of all expertise levels. This AI tool can answer questions about resin processes, troubleshoot issues like yellowing or bubbles, and provide solutions in real-time. Unlike traditional online searches, which may provide unreliable or SEO-driven results, this AI is tailored specifically to the epoxy industry, consolidating decades of expertise into an accessible format. It is positioned as a groundbreaking resource for both hobbyists and professionals. Rachel and Ian highlight the AI agent's practical applications, such as assisting users with project planning and troubleshooting. For instance, it can calculate the exact amount of epoxy needed for a wedding project or guide users on how to avoid common issues like bubbling by suggesting techniques such as sealing wood before applying resin. They emphasize the time-saving and stress-reducing benefits of having immediate, reliable answers at any time. Additionally, they discuss the potential for this AI to revolutionize business operations by aiding in forecasting, managing customer expectations, and even training new employees. The conversation concludes with excitement about the future of AI in niche industries like epoxy resin. Rachel and Ian compare this specialized AI to general tools like ChatGPT, explaining that while ChatGPT relies on broader internet searches, the iCoat Epoxy AI is a focused expert system built on industry-specific knowledge. They envision it becoming an indispensable tool for resin artists and businesses alike, streamlining processes and enhancing user confidence. The podcast encourages listeners to explore the AI agent via a link in their show notes and hints at its future capabilities, such as automating orders and providing detailed project support. https://icoatepoxy.com tel: +1 602-258-1114 https://www.facebook.com/iCoatProducts/ Instagram @icoat.epoxy https://icoatepoxy.com/ai-agent/ Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com
E13
Apr 12, 2025
19:42

Tariffs Are Rising — But Your Resin Cost Doesn’t Have To - Episode 12

Visit us online for museum-quality Epoxy Resin Imported Resin Prices Are About to Spike — Here's Why You're Safe with iCoat With new government tariffs targeting imported materials, epoxy resin suppliers who rely on overseas manufacturing are facing rising costs and supply instability. That means delays. That means price hikes. That means trouble — for them. But not for you! At iCoat, we manufacture every batch of our premium epoxy resin right here in the USA. Our supply chain is local, our quality is unmatched, and your pricing stays consistent — no matter what happens across the ocean. Whether you're a floral artist, preservation specialist, or just sick of getting ghosted by your resin supplier — you can count on us to keep delivering the crystal-clear, bubble-free epoxy you love. ➡️ Stay steady. Stay stocked. Stay with iCoat. Shop USA-Made Resin Now https://icoatepoxy.com tel: +1 602-258-1114 https://www.facebook.com/iCoatProducts/ Instagram @icoat.epoxy https://icoatepoxy.com/ai-agent/ Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com
E12
Apr 4, 2025
4:13

Resin Mastery - Mindful Tree Art - Flower Preservation Artist and Trainer - Episode 11

Visit us online for museum-quality Epoxy Resin The interview features Ann Niebch, an artist, author, and owner of Mindful Tree Art and Floor Preservation. Ann shares her journey from being a single mom in her twenties to a senior director in corporate America, where she developed women in leadership training programs. Despite her success, she felt a creative void in her life. This led her to yoga, which helped her become more mindful and present, especially in nature. The pandemic served as a catalyst, pushing her to explore her artistic side by painting murals, pressing flowers, and eventually creating jewelry and bookmarks, which she sold on Etsy. Ann's exploration eventually led her to flower preservation. She started experimenting with resin, facing many challenges and failures, but she persevered. She created a website offering wedding bouquet preservation services. By the end of 2021, the demand for her services grew exponentially, leading her to quit her corporate job and pursue her business full-time. Ann emphasizes the importance of taking the first step, making space for creativity, and believing in one's innate artistic abilities. Ann discusses the emotional aspect of her work, particularly with memorial projects. She appreciates using high-quality epoxy resin from iCoat Products, a company that values quality over profit. She has just released in Early 2025 her book Art, Hustle, & Flow: Mastering the art, business, and strategy of modern flower preservation. Available on Amazon and wherever you find great books. Personal Transformation: Ann's story highlights her transformation from a single mom to a successful business owner, showcasing the power of resilience and determination. Creativity and Fulfillment: Discovering and pursuing her artistic passions filled a void in Ann's life. Empowerment: Ann's journey encourages others to embrace their creativity and believe in their ability to achieve their goals. Emotional Connection: Ann finds deep satisfaction in creating memorial pieces, offering comfort and lasting memories to those who have experienced loss. High-Quality Materials: Using high-quality epoxy resin from iCaot Products ensures the longevity and beauty of her preserved flower creations. Business Success: Ann's business quickly grew from a side project to a full-time career, demonstrating the potential for financial independence and personal fulfillment through creative entrepreneurship. Anne Niebch mindfultreeart.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindfultreeart/ https://www.mindfultreeart.com/training https://icoatepoxy.com tel: +1 602-258-1114 https://www.facebook.com/iCoatProducts/ Instagram @icoat.epoxy Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com
E11
Mar 11, 2025
38:03

Resin Mastery - Tools of the Epoxy Resin Trade - Episode 10

Visit us online for museum-quality Epoxy Resin The podcast episode of Resin Mastery focused on essential tools for working with epoxy resin projects. Below is a summary emphasizing the "Tools of the Trade": Safety Tools Respirators: Full-face gas respirators are recommended for enclosed spaces with multiple projects, as they protect both breathing and eye safety. Half-face respirators are suitable for smaller projects but require separate eye protection. Eye Protection: Essential to prevent epoxy splashes during mixing or sanding. Options range from full-coverage goggles to clear glasses, depending on personal preference. Workspace Preparation Brown Craft Paper and Painter's Tape: Ideal for covering surfaces to protect them from epoxy spills. Scotch blue painter's tape is highlighted for its ease of use and residue-free removal. Drop Cloths: Useful for larger projects to prevent epoxy from spreading onto floors or furniture. Craft paper can be reused if kept clean during the process. Mixing Tools Buckets: Large three-gallon buckets are perfect for mixing epoxy, while smaller plastic buckets work well for small batches. Hardened epoxy can be easily removed, allowing bucket reuse. Drill Attachments: Silicone-ended drill attachments help mix larger batches efficiently but require caution to avoid splashes. Stirring Sticks and Chip Brushes: Stirring sticks are inexpensive and effective for small projects, while high-quality chip brushes prevent bristles from contaminating the epoxy. Temperature Control Heating Mats: Reptile heating mats or similar devices ensure epoxy is at the right temperature for mixing by warming bottles gradually. This method avoids overheating and maintains optimal viscosity. Heat Guns: Useful for precise temperature adjustments during preparation. Advanced Tools Vacuum Chambers: Mentioned briefly as a tool to remove air bubbles from mixed epoxy, ensuring a smoother finish. The episode provided practical advice on selecting and using these tools effectively, helping listeners optimize their resin projects while minimizing risks and cleanup time. Click here for our recommended tools of the trade https://artist.icoatproducts.com/tools-of-the-epoxy-resin-trade/ https://icoatepoxy.com tel: +1 602-258-1114 https://www.facebook.com/iCoatProducts/ Instagram @icoat.epoxy https://icoatepoxy.com/ai-agent/ Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com
E10
Mar 4, 2025
22:56

Resin Mastery - Are You Ready for Wedding Season and Flower Preservation Work - Episode 9

Visit us online for museum-quality Epoxy Resin The podcast, part of the Resin Mastery series, features a conversation about wedding season preparation for flower preservation artists. They explore various sentimental ways couples and wedding parties might want to preserve wedding memories, such as saving bouquets, creating centerpiece mementos, and making personalized gifts like ring holders for bridesmaids and parents. The hosts discuss the most popular wedding seasons, noting that spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are the peak wedding months. They explain why winter is less desirable for weddings, citing reasons like holiday conflicts, cold weather, and potential travel challenges. They also touch on regional variations, mentioning that summer weddings can work in some northern states but would be challenging in hot locations like Arizona or Florida. In the final segment, they provide practical advice for preservation artists preparing for wedding season. Their recommendations include checking and preparing equipment, ensuring adequate product supply, tools, understanding resource requirements, and developing a robust marketing strategy. They suggest networking with florists and wedding planners, creating a comprehensive website, maintaining an active social media presence, and being prepared to market services across different regions to grow the business. Click here for your Wedding Season Checklist https://icoatepoxy.com tel: +1 602-258-1114 https://www.facebook.com/iCoatProducts/ Instagram @icoat.epoxy https://icoatepoxy.com/ai-agent/y Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com
E9
Feb 5, 2025
23:19

Resin Mastery - Blossom and Rhyme, Wedding Flower Preservation - Episode 8

Visit us online for museum-quality Epoxy Resin Rachael Croxall, founder of Blossom & Rhyme, started her business in Chattanooga, Tennessee, during the pandemic after losing her job at a wedding venue. Leaning on her Christian faith and driven by a passion for preserving memories, she began creating resin jewelry and keepsakes using wedding flowers, initially making small necklaces and eventually expanding to full bouquet preservations. Her business took off after a viral Instagram video got 40 million views, which prompted her to transition from a hobby to a full-time enterprise. When a frost disrupted one of the main US plants that supply epoxy chemicals, and the pandemic had ports backlogged for imported product, iCoat was able to provide a steady, constant supply based on their relationships and longevity in the supply chain. While other companies were telling their clients it would be weeks before they could get more product, Blossom & Rhyme had a constant supply of epoxy through iCoat to fill their orders. The company quickly grew from a small home-based operation to a substantial business with multiple employees. Rachael emphasizes the importance of hard work, customer service, and being selective about partnerships. Her unique approach includes incorporating poetry into her preservation services, with shipping specialists selecting personalized poems that match each client's love story or memorial narrative. Today, Blossom & Rhyme has expanded to a large workspace of 6,000 square feet and employs 20 people, including Rachael and her husband. They have become the most followed floral preservation account on Instagram. Rachael remains passionate about her work, viewing it as a way to help people preserve precious memories and moments that might otherwise be lost, reflecting her belief that life is composed of meaningful small moments worth capturing and cherishing. Listen to the Resin Mastery podcast to hear Rachael’s full story about building Blossom & Rhyme. Blossom & Rhyme Designs contact@blossomandrhyme.com t: 423-838-0176 https://blossomandrhyme.com https://icoatepoxy.com tel: +1 602-258-1114 https://www.facebook.com/iCoatProducts/ Instagram @icoat.epoxy https://icoatepoxy.com/ai-agent/ Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com
E8
Jan 29, 2025
55:27

Resin Mastery - Transforming Everyday Objects with Epoxy - Episode 7

Visit us online for museum-quality Epoxy Resin Rachel and Ian, hosts of the Resin Mastery Podcast, discuss the versatility and creative potential of epoxy resin in home DIY projects. They explore numerous ways to transform and elevate everyday household items, emphasizing how epoxy can be used to preserve, protect, and personalize objects ranging from wooden gates and charcuterie boards to ceramic soap dishes and mason jars. The conversation highlights practical and creative applications of epoxy, such as fixing a loose gate clasp, creating food-safe surfaces, protecting wooden utensils, and customizing items like garbage cans. Rachel shares her passion for personalization, suggesting ways to use epoxy to make items more durable, visually appealing, and meaningful - from adding glitter to soap dishes to preserving dried flowers in glass jars. Beyond practical uses, the podcast hosts discuss how epoxy can help people preserve sentimental items, childproof surfaces, and create unique decorative pieces. They emphasize the product's incredible versatility, with Ian noting that epoxy is "a product you can work with, but it will work with you," highlighting its adaptability for various creative and functional purposes. https://icoatepoxy.com tel: +1 602-258-1114 https://www.facebook.com/iCoatProducts/ Instagram @icoat.epoxy https://icoatepoxy.com/ai-agent/ Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com
E7
Jan 14, 2025
26:36
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