How to Build a Custom Epoxy Resin Tabletop

• High Durability: Epoxy resin creates a scratch-resistant and moisture-resistant finish, ideal for surfaces that see daily use. 

• Customizable Design:You can add pigments, dyes, metallic powders, wood elements, or even embedded objects to make your creation unique. 

• Professional Finish: A properly cured and polished epoxy resin top offers a glass-like clarity and a polished appearance. 

• Depth Effect:For river tables or deep pour designs, the layers of resin create a striking, three-dimensional look. 

• Measuring tape 

• Mixing cups and stir sticks (disposable) 

• Heat gun or propane torch (toeliminate air bubbles) 

• Leveler tool 

• Painter’s tape or edge tape 

• Sander (with both coarse and fine-grit sandpaper) 

• Safety gear (gloves, eye goggles, and a respirator mask) 

• Clamps (to hold molds or wood in place) 

• Tabletop or deep-pour epoxy resin (choose based on the thickness of your pour) 

• Wooden base or panel (e.g., live-edge wood slab or MDF for molds) 

• Epoxy pigments or dyes (optional, for adding color) 

• Mold material (plastic sheets, melamine panels, or tape for edges) 

• Release agent or mold tape (to prevent resin from sticking) 

• Polishing compound or finishing wax (for thefinal touch) 

1. Choose Your Base 

2. For wood grain designs, live-edge slabs or solid wood pieces work best. 

3. If creating a fully resin tabletop, construct a mold using melamine or MDF panels. 

4. Seal the Surface 

5. Wood is porous, so seal your base or mold edges with a thin layer of resin or a wood sealer to prevent air bubbles during the pour. 

6. Prepare the Mold 

7. Construct a mold around the edges of your project with melamine or plastic sheets. 

8. Use painter’s tape or a mold release agent to provide a barrier against sticking. 

9. Ensure everything is level. Resin is self-leveling, so this step is critical for even results. 

• Use an online epoxy resin calculator to measure the exact amount needed for your project. 

• Follow manufacturer instructions to mix resin and hardener at the correct ratio (commonly 1:1 or 2:1). 

• Stir thoroughly for 2-3 minutes until combined. If adding pigments, now is the time to mix in color. 

• Slowly pour resin into your mold or over your base in a thin, even layer. For deep pours, work layer by layer, allowing each coat to partially cure before adding more. 

• Use a heat gun or propane torch toeliminate air bubbles that rise to the surface. Hold the tool about 6-8 inches away and move it in sweeping motions. 

1. Allow the Epoxy to Cure 

2. Check your resin’s curing time (usually 24-72 hours). Keep your space free of dust and disturbances during this period. 

3. Demold with Care 

4. Once the resin is fully cured, remove the tabletop from the mold. Use a release tool or light taps to separate stubborn edges. 

5. Trim and Sand Edges 

6. Remove any excess resin with a fine-tooth saw or utility knife. Sand rough edges with coarse-grit sandpaper, progressing to finer grits for a smooth finish. 

1. Sand the Surface 

2. Start with a coarse grit (e.g., 80) to remove imperfections, and gradually work your way up to fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 600-800 grit).

3. Optional - Polish 

4. Use a polishing compound or finishing wax to bring out a high-gloss shine. Buff the surface until it’s smooth and reflective. 

• Embed Objects  

• Add small stones, shells, flowers, or photos to the resin layers to capture a unique, personal design. 

• Create Patterns  

• Use metallic pigments or alcohol inks to craft swirls, metallic veins, or marble effects. 

• Blend Colors  

• Experiment with layeredpours or gradients for a dynamic, multi-tonal aesthetic. 

• Always wear gloves and a respirator mask toprotect from fumes and skin irritation. 

• Work in a well-ventilated area with protective coverings on surfaces. 

• Follow disposal guidelines for uncured resin and used materials.