Workspace Preparation and Safety

Work in a ventilated and clean space to minimise dust and fumes. Always wear gloves and protective gear, and make sure your workspace is free from humidity and contaminants that could spoil your resin finish.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Wood Surface

Prepare your workspace and protect the area. Choose a well-ventilated, dust-free area and lay down plastic sheeting. Always wear gloves and protective clothing to avoid skin contact with resin. Next, place your wood on a stable surface and cover any areas you do not wish to coat with masking tape.

Sand and clean the wood surface thoroughly. Start with medium grit sandpaper and finish with a finer grit to ensure the wood is smooth and free from imperfections. Remove all dust using a vacuum or tack cloth — a spotless surface ensures optimal resin adhesion and clarity after curing.

Step 3: Apply the Resin Evenly

Apply the resin evenly using a brush or pour technique. For restoration, brush a thin coat of epoxy onto the cleaned wood, allowing it to soak in and reinforce the fibres. For creative projects like tables, pour the mixed resin over the surface or into moulds, tilting the wood gently to level the flow. If you are making a river table or deep pour project, “EpoxyTable 5-Five” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables and Large Projects – Up to 5cm and “Epoxytable 10-Ten” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables, Up to 10cm Casting are specialised for thicker applications.

Remove air bubbles by briefly using a heat gun or torch at a safe distance. Avoid overworking the surface, as this can introduce more bubbles or disrupt the finish.

Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Allow for full curing before sanding or use. Rushing this stage can cause clouding or permanent fingerprints. Always strictly follow mixing ratios and application temperatures for the chosen product. Common mistakes include poor surface prep, improper mixing, and working in uncontrolled environments, which can result in bubbles or adhesion loss. For multi-layer projects, allow partial curing (as advised) between layers to avoid trapping air or inhibiting chemical bonding.

Troubleshooting Resin Application on Wood

If bubbles or tackiness occur, pop with a heat gun while wet, or sand and recoat once cured. Do not rush the curing process; patience ensures the best clarity and finish on your wood project.