What You’ll Need

• “EpoxyWood” – Wood Restoration Epoxy Resin for Deep Penetration and Waterproofing – Ideal for reinforcing or waterproofing timber and repairing wooden surfaces.
• “River-Table” – Complete Kit for Creating Your First Epoxy Resin Table – Contains all basic materials required for a resin and wood table project.
• “EpoxyTable 5-Five” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables and Large Projects – Up to 5cm – Suitable for thick pour projects like tabletops and countertops.
• “EpoxyFood” – Certified Clear Food Contact Epoxy Resin for Coating – Best for wooden items intended for food contact, such as cutting boards and serving trays.
• Sanding paper (various grits, e.g., 120, 220, 600)
• Lint-free cloths
• Mixing containers and stirring sticks
• Disposable gloves and protective goggles
• Painter’s tape and plastic sheeting to protect your workspace

Step 1: Prepare the Wood Surface

Begin by ensuring your wood is completely dry and free from dust, grease, or old coatings. Sand the surface starting with a coarse grit, then move to a finer grade for a smooth finish. Remove sanding dust thoroughly with a lint-free cloth. For best results, fill any cracks or imperfections before resin application.

Carefully mask off areas you do not wish to cover with resin. If you’re working on a casting or filling project, make sure to use formwork or barriers where necessary.

Step 2: Mix and Apply the Epoxy Resin

Follow the manufacturer’s mixing ratio precisely—incorrect ratios can compromise curing and finish. Pour the appropriate amount of resin and hardener into a clean container and stir slowly to avoid introducing air bubbles.

For general waterproofing or deep penetration, “EpoxyWood” – Wood Restoration Epoxy Resin for Deep Penetration and Waterproofing offers ultra-low viscosity to soak deep into the wood grain. Pour or brush on a thin coat, ensuring even coverage, and allow the resin to penetrate for structural reinforcement.

For creative or thicker casting projects such as river tables, use a dedicated deep pour resin like “EpoxyTable 5-Five” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables and Large Projects – Up to 5cm. Pour into your prepared form and use a heat gun to remove surface bubbles if needed.

Step 3: Allow to Cure and Sand Between Layers

Allow sufficient curing time as specified by your resin product—this varies with resin type, temperature, and pour depth. Do not handle or move the wood during this period, as even slight disturbances may cause defects.

If your project requires additional resin layers (such as flow coats for tabletops), sand lightly with a fine grit once the previous layer is hard but not fully cured. This helps the next layer bond properly. Clean off all fine dust before applying another coat.

Step 4: Finishing and Safety Considerations

After full curing, sand the surface gradually to a high polish or matte finish, depending on your preference. Start with medium-grit paper and move to very fine grit for the best clarity.

If your finished wood piece is intended for food contact, always choose a certified food-safe resin such as “EpoxyFood” – Certified Clear Food Contact Epoxy Resin for Coating. Adhere strictly to all safety advice and allow full curing before use.

Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid prolonged skin contact with uncured resin. Always wear gloves and protective gear to minimise risk.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Sand between layers for best adhesion and always clean dust off thoroughly before progressing. Temperature and humidity can affect curing times, so work in stable conditions where possible. Avoid pouring thick layers beyond the resin’s specification to prevent exothermic overheating or incomplete curing.

Take your time during preparation and mixing—rushing increases the chance of trapped bubbles or uneven finishes. Store unused resin in tightly sealed containers, away from sunlight and heat, to maintain quality.