Broken ceramic happens, but it’s possible to fix ceramic with epoxy and pastels.
Let’s talk some epoxy science.
Two-part epoxy is made from equal parts resin and hardener, mixed together. When they mix, a chemical reaction happens between the resin and hardener transforming the liquid into a gel, and then a solid. This reaction creates heat.
As epoxy cures the generated heat builds up. Then the epoxy cures faster because higher temperatures cause epoxy to cure faster. So the epoxy is creating heat that causes it to cure faster, and faster.
So what’s the why-to to this how-to?
When epoxy mixes with pastel powder, it fills in the gaps and secures chipped pieces with a color-match. It’s amazing how the cured mixture resembles ceramic and gives a seamless look to a decorative plate or treasured decor item.
And, unlike glue, cured epoxy can be sanded, drilled and painted. So if you add a bit too much or the shape isn’t perfect when it is cured, you can sand it to the correct shape.
Let’s talk safety.
While I’ve used this method to fix the bottoms of chipped mugs, epoxy isn’t a food-safe chemical until it’s fully cured. So be cautious when working with the chemical, and keep it away from food prep areas. And wear gloves while working fixing ceramic or anything else with epoxy.
What are the ingredients?
- Artist pastels
- 2-part epoxy
- Utility knife or X-acto knife
- Scrap cardboard or plastic
- Rubbing alcohol and a cloth
What are the how-to steps?
There are two parts to fixing ceramic. The first part involves reattaching any chipped parts.
- Clean the ceramic with alcohol.
- Mix epoxy on a scrap piece of cardboard or plastic
- Apply the epoxy to the ceramic edges with a toothpick or other fine-tipped object.
- Put the chipped piece back in place, holding it for about a minute. There may be some lingering gaps. That’s ok. We’ll fix those, too.
- Wait about an hour before removing any excess epoxy with a knife edge.
After the epoxy is cured, it’s time to fix the lingering gaps. This part involves making a matching color with pastels and applying that with another epoxy mix.
- Select pastels that match the ceramic’s color.
- Scrape pastel dust into a pile on a scrap of cardboard or plastic.
- Mix the pastel dust so that it is the same color as the ceramic.
- Mix epoxy with the pastel dust.
- Working quickly, use a toothpick or other fine-tipped object to fill in the gaps on the ceramic.
- Wait about an hour before removing any excess epoxy with a knife edge.
- Wipe down the ceramic mug and then set it aside until the epoxy is fully cured (the directions on your brand of epoxy will include cure time)
- After the mug is fully cured, hand wash and let it dry.
And now you are ready to use your favorite mug again.
I hope this how-to fix ceramic with epoxy helps. If you’re searching for a quick-fix how-to, we’d love to help. Share your questions and comments below.
And check out more of my family’s MyFixitUpLife tips and how-tos to help make your house into the home you dream about.
