Basics

• Epoxy resin--the stuff that the glue turns into--has been used since the 1930s. It's a polymer, one of the toughest molecular compounds around. Epoxy polymers are lightweight, extremely durable, temperature resistant and waterproof. Commercially, epoxy is used in the construction of aircraft, cars and sporting equipment, which should give you some idea of just how strong this stuff is.
  
  

Two-Part Epoxy

• Crafting and hobby epoxies are sold in two-bottle kits. The two solutions on their own will not dry into anything special. Once mixed together, however, you've got just a couple minutes until they set into a rock-hard resin. Make sure you only mix together as much epoxy as you will be needing for your project, and only use a little bit at a time. Making a big batch will result in nothing but a useless lump of resin sitting on the side of your craft table. Depending on the type of epoxy you're working with, the resin may take anywhere from a few minutes to 24 hours to fully set.
  
  

Application

• Slow and steady is the way to work with this fast-drying super glue. Practice with it to get a feel for its consistency, how easily it spreads and how fast it dries. Don't start applying it to your project until you are comfortable using it. Once epoxy sets, it's there for good. Common tools used to apply epoxy are syringes, wooden dowels and even toothpicks for very small jobs. Brushes can be used for thing coatings, though they must be dipped in vinegar or acetone directly after each application to ensure that the bristles do not harden.
  
  

Safety

• Given epoxy's strength and durability, you can to exercise caution and patience when applying it. Since this stuff can hold aircraft together, you can imagine that it's not a good idea to get it on your skin. If you get any epoxy on your hands or anywhere else that has exposed skin, wash it off immediately before it sets. Vinegar can be used to help clean it off. Once it sets, however, your only hope is to scrub it off a little bit at a time using heavy exfoliating soap. If you get epoxy in your eyes, rise them out immediately and call for medical attention. Epoxy also does create vapors, which can be irritating or harmful when inhaled. Always use epoxy in a well-ventilated room.
  
  

Home Use

• So what sorts of projects would you need epoxy for? Given its super strength, you don't need to use it in places where white glue or a glue stick will do the job. Epoxy is most commonly used for things such as remote control model airplanes or boats, electrical projects or woodworking.