What You’ll Need

• “EpoxyWood” – Wood Restoration Epoxy Resin for Deep Penetration and Waterproofing – for sealing and reinforcing wood prior to resin work
• “River-Table” – Complete Kit for Creating Your First Epoxy Resin Table – comprehensive option for full resin and wood table projects
• “Trasparente” – Multipurpose Clear Epoxy Resin for Casting – Up to 2cm – for typical castings, art, or encapsulating wood pieces up to 2cm
• “Epoxytable 10-Ten” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables, Up to 10cm Casting – ideal for deep pour river tables or large block projects
• Mixing cups, stir sticks, gloves, protective mask
• Level work surface, formwork or moulds, release agent
• Sanding paper (various grits), polish (optional)

See Resin and Wood Projects in Progress

Explore inspiring in-progress photos and techniques used to combine clear resin with wood. Witness how surface preparation, pouring, and finishing methods make a difference in clarity and craftsmanship.

Step 1: Prepare the Wood

Start by thoroughly cleaning the wood to remove dust, dirt, grease and any old finishes. The surface must be completely dry before proceeding; moisture trapped in the wood can cause bubbles or poor adhesion. Sand down the wood to the desired finish, paying special attention to any uneven textures that may affect resin flow. Remove sanding dust using a brush or vacuum.

For best results and maximum durability, seal any cracks or porous sections with a deep-penetrating resin sealer. “EpoxyWood” – Wood Restoration Epoxy Resin for Deep Penetration and Waterproofing is specially designed for this task, offering strong internal sealing and moisture resistance. Apply a thin coat, allow it to cure fully, and sand off any raised grain before the main pour.

Step 2: Build the Formwork and Level Your Workspace

Construct a leak-proof formwork or use a suitable mould for your wood and resin project. Your mould must fit the desired shape tightly and be treated with a release agent to ensure easy demoulding later. Check that your work surface is absolutely level—uneven surfaces lead to lopsided pours and resin pooling where you don’t want it.

Seal the edges of the form with high-quality silicone for extra protection against leaks.

Step 3: Measure and Mix Your Resin

Carefully calculate the volume of resin required, based on the voids around your wood and the thickness you wish to achieve. Refer to the curing limits of your chosen resin; for pours up to 2cm, consider “Trasparente” – Multipurpose Clear Epoxy Resin for Casting – Up to 2cm. For projects requiring deeper fills, such as thick tabletops, “Epoxytable 10-Ten” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables, Up to 10cm Casting offers safe, bubble-free casting in single layers up to 10cm.

Follow all safety protocols—wear gloves and a mask, and work in a ventilated area. Mix according to instructions using slow, steady motions to minimise bubble formation. Measure and mix your resin carefully for the most consistent results.

Step 4: Pour Resin in Controlled Layers

Pour the resin slowly, ideally in thin layers. This helps avoid overheating and reduces trapped bubbles. Use a heat gun or torch sparingly to pop bubbles that rise to the surface, but take care not to scorch the resin or wood below. For thick castings, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maximum safe pouring depth per application—never exceed the recommended limits.

Pour resin in controlled layers for perfect clarity and strength. If your design includes pigments or effects, mix them thoroughly before pouring, or use a kit such as the “River-Table” – Complete Kit for Creating Your First Epoxy Resin Table which contains additives and step-by-step guidance.

Step 5: Allow Full Curing and Finish

After pouring, protect your project from dust and let the resin cure undisturbed. Curing time varies with resin type and environmental conditions—check the manufacturer’s guidelines. Once fully set, release the piece from its mould and inspect the surface. Sand away any sharp edges or imperfections, working up through the grits for a glassy finish.

Polish with a dedicated resin polish for a mirror shine if desired. Allow full curing before demoulding to avoid warping or smudges.

Tips and Troubleshooting for Resin and Wood Projects

Always check your workspace for dust, hairs, and moisture risks. Avoid moisture and dust contamination—both can cloud the resin or disrupt adhesion. Pouring thick layers too quickly may cause exothermic overheating and trapped bubbles, so adhere to recommended limits. If you notice clouding, excessive bubbles, or incomplete curing, double-check your mixing ratios and environmental temperature for possible causes. Practice on a small piece first if you are unsure.

Finishing Touches and Creative Variations

Delve into final finishing techniques, creative effects with pigment or metallic additives, and how to achieve your perfect balance between resin clarity and wood character. Showcase your results or experiment with layering and texturing methods for unique effects.