Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Resin Tables

Pouring Resin: Watch Out for Overheating and Layer Thickness

One of the main errors in casting resin for tables is pouring too much in one go, especially with deep-pour formulas. Fast, thick pours can lead to excessive heat build-up (exotherm) inside the resin, risking cracking, yellowing, or even resin failure. For best results, follow the resin manufacturer’s recommendations for maximum layer thickness. For example, products like EpoxyTable 5-Five allow up to 5cm pours per layer, while “Trasparente” is suited to pours up to 2cm.

• For thick tables, pour in stages and allow each layer to partially cure (usually 6–8 hours) before adding the next.
• Avoid adding heat sources or working in a warm room, as this can intensify overheating.

Properly Sealing the Formwork

Poorly sealed moulds or formwork are another frequent source of difficulty for resin table makers. Even minor gaps can let resin escape, leading to wasted product and uneven table edges. Use reliable formwork materials and seal all joins with silicone or specialist tape as recommended. All-in-one table kits such as the River-Table Complete Kit often include the right sealants and instructions to simplify this crucial step.

Mixing and Measuring Mistakes

Inaccurate mixing ratios between resin and hardener can affect curing, clarity, and table strength. Always use digital scales to match the specified weight ratios, mixing slowly and thoroughly to minimise bubbles. Incomplete mixing or using a rough estimate can cause sticky, soft patches or a weakened table surface.