What You’ll Need

• “EpoxyWood” – Wood Restoration Epoxy Resin for Deep Penetration and Waterproofing: A resin that enhances and protects the natural grain of the wood, ideal for base layers and authentic wood effects.
• “River-Table” – Complete Kit for Creating Your First Epoxy Resin Table: Includes pigments and resin, perfect for creating coloured wood grain or river table effects.
• “EpoxyTable 5-Five” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables and Large Projects – Up to 5cm or “Epoxytable 10-Ten” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables, Up to 10cm Casting: Choose depending on your project’s casting depth for creating thick wood-effect layers.
• Sandpaper (various grits)
• Mixing containers and stirring sticks
• Protective gloves and mask
• Pigments or dyes (for colour enhancement)

See Wood Effect Resin Projects in Action

Discover inspiring examples of epoxy resin projects that masterfully recreate the look of natural wood grain, from river tables to decorative panels and more. Whether using EpoxyWood for restoration or deep pour resins for new designs, there is no limit to the creative possibilities. Let real-world results inspire your next wood effect epoxy resin transformation.

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

Start with a clean, dry, and stable substrate. If you are working on existing wood, sand the surface with medium, then fine grit sandpaper to open the pores and remove dust or previous finishes. Preparation ensures that the resin will adhere correctly and enhances your resulting wood effect. Remember to clean off all dust before moving on.

Always sand and clean your surface thoroughly before applying any resin.

Step 2: Seal the Wood and Create the Grain

Applying a sealing coat prevents air bubbles from rising through the epoxy and helps highlight the wood grain. For this step, choose “EpoxyWood” – Wood Restoration Epoxy Resin for Deep Penetration and Waterproofing to deeply penetrate and protect the wood. Mix according to the instructions and brush on a thin sealing layer. Allow to cure as specified before proceeding.

Seal the wood in advance to prevent air bubbles from forming.

Step 3: Mix and Tint the Epoxy Resin

Once sealed, it’s time to create your wood effect with colour. Mix your chosen epoxy resin. If you are aiming for depth or want to achieve ‘river table’ style effects, select “EpoxyTable 5-Five” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables and Large Projects – Up to 5cm or “Epoxytable 10-Ten” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables, Up to 10cm Casting to suit your desired thickness. Add pigments or tints gradually, mixing well until you achieve your preferred wood shade or veining effect. Swirl different colours for added realism if desired.

Work in layers for greater control over colour and depth.

Step 4: Pour and Manipulate the Resin

Pour the tinted resin gently onto the prepared surface, spreading it evenly. Depending on the effect you want, you can use combs, brushes, or sticks to manipulate the resin and mimic the intricate lines of wood grain. If you’re using a kit like the “River-Table” – Complete Kit for Creating Your First Epoxy Resin Table, follow the included instructions for combining wood and resin seamlessly. Tackle one layer at a time, allowing each to fully cure before moving on to the next if required.

Watch for air bubbles during and after pouring; a quick pass with a heat gun or torch can remove them for a flawless surface.

Step 5: Finishing and Polishing

Once cured, sand the surface progressively with finer grit sandpaper for a smooth finish. Polish with a dedicated resin polish for optimal clarity and depth, especially if you have used a complete kit with a polishing set included. This final touch brings out the rich, natural lustre that faithfully mimics real wood.

Do not rush the curing process; patience is essential for a flawless wood effect.