Hi Brent;

One of the most important aspects of mixing epoxy IMO is getting the resin from the side of the container mixed into the rest of the volume. This entails dragging your mixing stick along the sides, then the bottom of the cup. It is necessary to swirl the center mass, but just as important to get the stuff from the sides and bottom mixed in. If the remaining epoxy on the sides of your mixing cup remains tacky after the rest hardens, you did not mix it thoroughly.

Not ever having had an epoxy failure (knock on cedar ;-), I stir, scrape, stir scrape, for about 2 minutes, let the mixture sit for 1 minute (it will clear and start a mild reaction), then stir & scrape for an additional minute. Any bubbles generated will dissipate after application, if the mixture is thin and warm enough. Just don't whip the stuff, if it looks too milky it probably will not clear to your satisfaction.

I think a mixing stick and a few minutes of "due diligence" is not only sufficient, but the best way to go.

Best of Luck, Spidey