Epoxy resin river tables have become a popular trend in the world of furniture. The combination of raw wooden slabs and colorful epoxy resin creates a unique and breathtaking piece that is both functional and beautiful. In this step-by-step guide, we will take you through the process of making your very own epoxy resin river table, from preparing the slab to adding the finishing touches.
What Is a River Table?
Before we dive into the details, let's first understand what a river table is. A river table consists of raw wooden planks that are split lengthwise and faced towards the center, with a "river" of colored epoxy resin poured between them. This creates a solid tabletop with a stunning visual effect.
These tables can be incredibly vibrant and colorful, and you can get creative by incorporating swirling patterns or inlays in the epoxy resin. The possibilities are endless, and you can create unique and incredible furniture pieces using this technique. River tables are not limited to just dining tables; you can also create charcuterie boards, cornhole boards, serving boards, and even end tables.
How Much Resin Do You Need?
To estimate the amount of epoxy resin you'll need, calculate the volume of the river. Measure the length, width, and depth of the river, and multiply these dimensions together. For example, a river that is 10.75 inches by 10.75 inches and 2 inches deep would require approximately 1 gallon of epoxy resin.
Supplies List
Here are the supplies you'll need to create your own river table:
- Orbital Palm Sander
- Silicone Caulk (Fast-drying Latex Caulk)
- Caulk Gun
- Metal Tape
- Plastic Sheeting
- Epoxy Resin Set
- Cups for Mixing
- Mixing Utensils
- Pigments
- Mask
- Gloves
- Polyurethane
If you're starting with a raw, uncut piece of wood, you'll also need a miter saw, table saw, and a wire brush with stiff bristles.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Building Your River Table
Now let's get into the step-by-step process of creating your own river table:
Step 1: Prepare the Wood
If you're using prepared wood, you can skip this step. Otherwise, follow these instructions:
- Use a miter saw to cut your live edge slab to the desired length.
- Use a table saw to rip the wood with the grain.
- Use a wire brush to remove the bark along the live edges.
If you prefer not to prepare the wood yourself, you can contact a local sawmill or woodworker for pre-processed wood.
Step 2: Create the Mold
To create the mold for your river table, you'll need thick plastic, silicone caulk, and metal tape. Here's what you need to do:
- Lay a piece of thick plastic on your working surface, extending it beyond the width and length of the river.
- Apply a steady string of silicone caulk along the length of the board, about an inch or two out from the river.
- Wait for the caulk to dry completely.
- Flip each board over and place them silicone side down on the plastic sheeting, aligning them with each other.
- Flip up the plastic on the ends to prevent resin spills and reinforce the ends with metal tape.
When placing the wood into the mold, make sure the live edges face inward along the river, creating a V shape that provides a solid base for the epoxy.
Step 3: Prepare the Epoxy Resin
Before pouring the epoxy resin, warm the material and mix in your choice of mica powder colors. Follow these steps:
- Warm the resin and hardener bottles in hot water to ensure proper flow.
- Make sure all pigments and mixing utensils are readily accessible.
- Pour the 1:1 ratio of resin and hardener into a reusable silicone cup.
- Stir the mixture for approximately 3 minutes or until fully mixed. Avoid introducing bubbles by stirring slowly.
- If using multiple colors, pour the mixed epoxy resin into separate cups and mix in the pigment.
Step 4: Pour the River
Now it's time to pour the epoxy resin into the mold and create the river effect:
- Slowly pour the resin into the mold, avoiding the introduction of bubbles.
- Start with a thin initial layer and add additional colors using a stir stick or toothpick to create your desired design.
- If necessary, remove any bubbles using a butane torch.
- Wait for each layer to gel up before adding subsequent layers.
- Repeat this process until the river is full.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
The final steps involve sanding and adding a clear coat:
- Once fully cured, remove the plastic, silicone caulk, and metal tape.
- Use an orbital palm sander to make the epoxy flush with the wood surface and remove any impurities.
- Apply a coat of polyurethane to the entire piece for added protection and a smooth finish.
Remember, if you're working on a smaller project, you can use a planer to trim the finished board to a uniform thickness before sanding.
And that’s it! You have successfully created your own stunning epoxy resin river table. Enjoy the beauty and functionality of your unique creation!
To explore more epoxy resin projects and find inspiration, check out our guide on using mica powder in epoxy resin. And remember, Slice of the Moon has everything you need to bring your river table visions to life, including craft epoxy resin kits, a wide range of mica powder colors, glow-in-the-dark pigments, and solvent-resistant glitters.
Shop Slice of the Moon products today and unleash your creativity with epoxy resin!