Do You Really Need a Torch for Resin? Bubble-Free Tips for Beginners

Do You Really Need a Torch? The Truth About Bubbles in Resin

Oh, bubbles—the uninvited guests of resin art. You mix, you pour, you hold your breath for that perfect, crystal-clear finish… and then they show up. Tiny, pesky air pockets floating around like they own the place.

And everyone online seems to have the same advice: “Just get a torch!”

So when I first started resin art, guess what I did?
I marched straight to the store, dropped way too much money on a shiny new torch, and felt very professional holding it.

Then I burnt pieces. Melted molds. Ruined projects I spent hours on. And discovered the hard way that torches can be a beginner’s worst nightmare.

So, do you really need one? Or is this another case of feeling like you need all the fancy tools before you even start? (Spoiler: you don’t.)

Let’s talk about what actually works, what doesn’t, and how to keep your resin smooth without spending a fortune—or setting your craft table on fire.

Why Bubbles Appear in Resin

Before we start grabbing heat sources, let’s talk about why bubbles happen.

Resin is basically a thick liquid, and when you mix the two parts—resin and hardener—you’re bound to trap air inside. Stir a little too enthusiastically, and it’s like making latte foam you didn’t ask for.

Other bubble culprits?

• Pouring too fast.

• Room temperature changes.

• Embedding flowers or wood that release air as they soak.

Understanding this is half the battle. Because once you know how bubbles sneak in, you can stop them before they ruin your masterpiece.

Do You Actually Need a Torch for Resin?

Here’s the question everyone’s asking. And the answer is… it depends.

Pros of Using a Torch

A torch is like the big, shiny sports car of resin tools—fast, impressive, and it gets the job done.

A quick pass over the surface, and those bubbles pop like magic. Professionals love them because they:

• Work instantly for big projects.

• Leave a flawless finish.

• Feel kind of fun to use—if you like a little drama.

If you’re pouring river tables or giant trays, a torch might feel like your new best friend.

Cons and Risks of a Torch

But here’s the not-so-glamorous truth that no one told me when I was starting out:

• They can scorch your resin. Too much heat turns that clear, glassy finish into something that looks like it spent too long in the oven.

• They damage molds. Silicone molds and open flames? A disaster waiting to happen. I melted more than one before I learned better.

• They cost money. The torch, the butane, the replacements… it adds up fast for beginners.

• They’re a safety risk. Open flames around resin aren’t exactly the cozy crafting vibes I was going for.

For small projects like coasters or jewelry, a torch is often like buying a bulldozer to plant a few flowers—and ruining your garden in the process.

Alternatives to Using a Torch for Resin Bubbles

The good news? Torches aren’t the only option. There are friendlier, cheaper, and safer tools—especially for beginners who want beautiful results without the stress.

Heat Guns

A heat gun is like the torch’s calm, responsible cousin.

No open flame, just a steady stream of hot air that pops bubbles without torching your molds or turning your resin yellow. Plus, heat guns are amazing for creating fun resin effects like waves and lacing. They multitask better than most of us on a Monday morning.

Alcohol Sprays

This one feels almost like cheating. A quick spritz of 91% isopropyl alcohol over the resin surface, and poof—bubbles disappear.

The alcohol breaks the surface tension so the bubbles pop naturally. No fire, no ruined molds, no stress. And it costs a fraction of what I spent on that torch.

Bubble-Free Mixing Techniques

Sometimes the best solution is prevention. Here’s what works every time:

• Stir slowly. Like, “you’re making soup on a lazy Sunday” slow.

• Warm resin bottles in hot water before mixing so it’s thinner and less bubbly.

• Pour in thin layers so air can escape before things harden up.

When I started taking my time instead of rushing, my bubble problem practically solved itself.

Pro Tips to Prevent Bubbles from the Start

Here’s my personal list of bubble-busting habits that changed everything for me:

• Seal porous materials first. Flowers, wood, and paper love to trap air. A quick seal coat keeps them from releasing bubbles later.

• Let your resin rest. After mixing, give it a minute or two so bubbles rise to the top like they suddenly realized they weren’t invited.

• Work in a stable environment. Resin loves consistency. No freezing garages or humid porches—it just makes things worse.

The best part? None of this costs extra.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Bubble Solution

So, do you really need a torch?

If you’re pouring giant projects and feel comfortable with the risks, maybe. But for beginners, small keepsakes, or anyone on a budget? There are easier, safer, cheaper ways to get a smooth, bubble-free finish without destroying your molds—or your bank account.

Start with alcohol sprays, practice bubble-free mixing, maybe grab a heat gun if you want to get fancy.

And when you’re ready to take things to the next level? That’s when a torch might make sense. Until then, save your money for more resin supplies—or better yet, my resin art courses where I teach you everything I wish someone had told me when I was starting out.