Making an epoxy river table is a rewarding project that combines woodworking with epoxy resin art. Here’s a general guide:
- Select and Prepare the Wood: Choose two slabs of wood for the sides of the table. Sand and plane them to ensure they are flat and smooth. The gap between the two slabs will form the “river.”
- Create a Mold: Build a mold for the table using a material like melamine or plywood. The mold should be slightly larger than your final table size and sealed well to prevent leaks.
- Secure the Wood in the Mold: Place the wood slabs in the mold, leaving a gap between them for the epoxy river. Ensure the wood is securely fastened to the base of the mold.
- Seal the Wood: Apply a sealant coat of epoxy to the wood to prevent air bubbles during the main pour.
- Mix and Color the Epoxy: Mix a deep pour epoxy resin like Liquid Glass Deep Pour Epoxy. Add colorant or mica powder if desired.
- Pour the Epoxy: Slowly pour the mixed epoxy into the gap between the wood slabs, filling up to the desired level. Avoid pouring too much epoxy at once to prevent excessive heat build-up.
- Remove Bubbles: Use a heat gun or a torch to carefully remove any air bubbles that rise to the surface.
- Cure the Epoxy: Allow the epoxy to cure fully, which can take several days depending on the thickness of the pour and the specific product used.
- Demold and Finish the Table: Once cured, remove the table from the mold. Sand the table to your desired finish, paying particular attention to the edges and where the epoxy meets the wood.
- Apply a Top Coat: Apply a final coat of epoxy or a finishing oil to protect the wood and give it a polished look.
- Add Legs and Hardware: Attach legs and any necessary hardware to complete your table.
Creating an epoxy river table requires patience, attention to detail, and careful work with both wood and epoxy. The result is a stunning piece of functional art.
Check out our blog here to learn more: How to Make a River Table