Epoxy resins are used to create high-gloss coatings for everything from wooden tabletops to bar counters. Talented DIYers also use them to create one-of-kind wooden art pieces, like river tables and elaborate wooden and epoxy sculptures.
We’ve tested several of the top-rated epoxy resins to find out which ones worked best on wooden surfaces. Most of the coating epoxies cover approximately 12 square feet per mixed gallon (1/2 Gal Part A and 1/2 Gal Part B) at 1/8 inch thickness.
Best Epoxy Resins for Wood in 2020
| Image | Product | |
|---|---|---|
Editor's Choice  | Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin Coating for Wood Tabletop
| Check Price |
Super Hard Finish  | RTG Bar & Table Top Epoxy
| Check Price |
Crystal Clear Finish  | SRC Epoxy-It 89 Clear Epoxy Resin
| Check Price |
Super Gloss Coating  | ECR EPOXY Resin Crystal Clear
| Check Price |
No Bubbles  | TotalBoat Epoxy Resin
| Check Price |
1. ProMarine Supplies Crystal Clear Tabletop Epoxy Resin – Your Best Choice for Wooden Countertops and River Tables
Our first pick is by far the easiest and most reliable epoxy resin on the market. ProMarine Supplies Tabletop Epoxy is a high-performance, crystal-clear epoxy coating that goes on in two easy steps. A lot of useful information regarding ProMatine epoxies could be found on the official FAQ page.
Pro Marine Supplies Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin- 100% Solids, Super Clear
- Self Leveling, High Gloss
- U.V. Resistant Formula
Once cured, this epoxy resin is incredibly durable. As an abrasion- and liquid-resistant surface, it’s perfect for hard-wearing surfaces, like the surfaces of river tables and bars. While we recommend this product for use on wood, it can be applied to virtually any surface, including traditional countertop materials.
The mixture contains 100% solids. As such, it boasts excellent air release and color stability. I use it to improve the appearance of my wood projects. A heavy pour will eliminate craters, crawling, and fish eyes.
Keep in mind that epoxy is durable, but it can still be scratched and disfigured by sharp objects and high heat.
Safe for Food
Tabletop Epoxy meets is FDA-compliant. As such, it can be used on surfaces that are designed to come in contact with food. This includes bar tops, river tabletops, tumblers, and glassware. Of course, this finish can also be used for a wide variety of DIY craft and home repair applications.
The product is 100% non-toxic. Safe to use indoors.
Ease of Application
To apply the Tabletop Resin, you must measure and mix equal parts of resin and hardener. The manufacturer recommends that you apply a seal coat before applying your 1/8-inch flood coat.
You have the option to apply additional flood coats to increase the thickness of the final coating. Just make sure you consider everything when putting the square footage of your river table or project into an epoxy coverage calculator.
ProMarine epoxy can be built up to unlimited heights. However, each flood coat should not exceed 1/8 inch. Plus, you need to wait at least 4 hours between pours. The versatility of this product makes it a great option for projects that involve embedding hard or soft objects in river tabletops.
A Long Wait
Our only complaint about this product is the 72-hour curing time. Anticipated curing times are even longer at temperatures below 72 degrees Fahrenheit. So, be prepared to set your project aside for a few days.
At least, you get a pretty lengthy 35 minute work time after mixing the formula. Just make sure you store the products at a temperature above 75 degrees Fahrenheit at all times. The temperature has a huge impact on the viscosity of this product.
Place the resin in a warm water bath to bring it back to a workable temperature.
Pros
- Scratch-resistant high-gloss coating
- Dries crystal clear
- Compliant with FDA requirements for use around food
- Works great on wood, but suitable for virtually any surface
- Simple no-fail DIY application method
- Does not contain harmful chemicals or VOCs
Cons
- 72-hour curing process
- 35-minute work time
2. RTG Supply Co. Bar & Table Top Epoxy Resin – Best Budget Option for DIY River Table Projects
RTG Supply Co. is a company that flies under the radar. It’s hard to get a read on them. After all, they do not have their website or publicly available contact information. Yet, that hasn’t stopped them from creating one of our favorite epoxy resins.
First things first, we were pleased with this product’s low price. The two-part epoxy resin formula (1 gallon total) was incredibly affordable compared to similarly ranked products.
The Bar and Table Top Epoxy creates a durable clear gloss coating. The finished product resists moisture, scratches, and stains. As a self-leveling product, it is super easy to use. We tested the formula out on a project that involved embedded objects. The results were stunning. You would never know we made multiple thin pours.
RTG Bar & Table Top Epoxy- Ultra-clear epoxy resin coating
- Scratch-, Stain-, and Impact-resistant
- Color-safe Formula
A Finish Unlike Others
A Finish Unlike OthersUnlike other epoxies, cured RTG will not blush. The formula also resists bubbling. Air pockets naturally rise to the surface. You can use a hairdryer to remove any stubborn blemishes. The finish is also UV-resistant, though it does not fare well in temperatures above 125 degrees Fahrenheit.
RTG strongly advised against using the product for outdoor applications, as prolonged exposure to sunlight will eventually damage the finished product. Still, this mirror-like finish resists yellowing, scratches, and water damage.
We found it incredibly easy to mix the two-part formula. The work time was even more generous than that of alternative products. Our RTG epoxy set up quickly. As promised, it dried super-clear. Our coated table was ready to use just 24 hours after our final pour.
So Simple
ERC makes it easy for DIYers to customize and preserve their artistic and utilitarian creations. Bar and Table Top Epoxy’s high-build properties make it so that a single 1/8-thick pour is equal to several layers of varnish.
Pros
- Two-part ultra-clear epoxy resin coating
- Tough, smooth cure in just 24 hours time
- Scratch-, stain-, and impact-resistant
- Color-safe formula that resists yellowing
- Can be used to embed soft or hard objects into bar or tabletop
- Resists heat better than varnish
- Bubbles naturally rise to the surface on their own
Cons
- UV-resistant, but not intended for outdoor applications
3. SRC Epoxy-It 80 Clear Epoxy Resin – Easiest Application
You’ll pay a little extra for this two-part epoxy resin, but the finished product is well worth the money. While some users felt the epoxy resin set a bit too soft, most were extremely pleased with this clear glossy finish. This 1-1 ratio mix kit includes an easy-to-pour 1/2-gallon bottle of clear epoxy resin and blue hardener. You earn a generous 40-minute work time to pour and set the resin. Make sure you are working in an environment at a suitable temperature. After that, expect to wait approximately 24 hours for the finished product to cure.
SRC Epoxy-It 80 Clear Epoxy Resin- Perfect for art and crafts
- Self-leveling
- UV-resistant, FDA-compliant
A Premium Finished Product
This ultra-clear coating is perfect for wooden table tops. It can also be used to cast crystal clear (or dyed) jewelry and other trinkets. The product is completely self-leveling. It pours smooth, leaving minimal bubbles and virtually no blush.
So Safe Your can Literally Eat Off It
As a virtually odorless and FDA-compliant product, this is one of our go-to options for bar tops and other eating surfaces. Since it’s UV-resistant, it’s also a good coating for outdoor picnic tables and bars.
You can expect the product to be shipped directly from the manufacturer, Specialty Resin & Chemical. They’re one of the most approachable epoxy resin manufacturers we’ve come across. They offer a full customer support system as well as a money-back guarantee. On top of that, all of their products are manufactured in the U.S.A.
Thick and Clear
Epoxy-It 80 provides incredible coverage. After sealing off porous surfaces, you can apply flood coats that are up to ¼ inch thick. The manufacturer seems to understand that DIYers are going to get their hands on this product. As such, complete instructions and phone-based technical support are offered with every purchase.
Use a blow torch or heat gun to remove any bubbles. Position your torch 8 inches from the surface of the epoxy resin.
Pros
- Two-part plastic epoxy (½ gallon epoxy resin and ½ gallon hardener)
- Perfect for casting clear arts and crafts products
- Self-leveling, UV-resistant, FDA-compliant
Cons
- Some hardening issues
4. ECR EPOXY Resin Crystal Clear – Best Beginner Pick
If your looking for quick-curing epoxy resin with a crystal-clear finish, East Coast Resins is the company for you. This super glossy finish comes in two parts: one ½ gallon of resin and one ½ gallon of hardener.
Mixing is easy when your working with a 1-1 ratio. You get 30 to 35 minutes of working time. All this depends on the temperature and humidity in your workspace. Curing times range from 16 to 20 hours .
ECR EPOXY Resin Crystal Clear Super Gloss Coating
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High Quality Engineering
East Coast Resin is focused on creating a safe and enjoyable customer experience. As such, they’ve worked hard to formulate a product that is safe and odorless. ECR Crystal Clear Coating is also safe for food and touch. Not to mention, it will not break down or leach harmful chemicals over time. You don’t even need to wear a mask when applying the polymer-based mixture.
Professional Results
This is our go-to recommendation for beginner hobbyists. The self-settling formula goes on easily. Not to mention, it cures rapidly. You never have to worry about your creations being ruined during the fishing process.
A Fabulous Finish for Tabletops
This is one of our preferred fishes for wooden tabletops. The formula is very inexpensive, leaving you more cash for high-quality woods and nails. The finish is clear and glossy. So naturally, it compliments wood grain and other natural textures. It can also be used to cast objects as thick as ½ inch. You can even add dyes to create epoxy resin river tables and other decorative pieces.
A single gallon is good for a flood coat that is roughly 1/8 inch thick and 16 square feet in area. Order accordingly to ensure that you have enough product to complete your entire project. An inadequate pour is difficult to repair.
Pros
- Super glossy appearance
- 1-1 ratio
- Cures in 16-20 hours
- Resistant to scratching and air humidity
5. TotalBoat Epoxy Resin – Best for Crafts and Woodworking Projects
This marine-grade epoxy resin generates an incredibly durable clear surface coating. The kit contains 1 gallon of epoxy. It is a 1-1 ratio of epoxy resin with hardener. You will also need a mixing stick, an epoxy pump, and a plastic mixing container. The finished product has an exceptionally smooth, glossy, and level finish.
Pro Marine Supplies Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin- Works literally on any surface
- Self Leveling, 100% Waterproof
- Resists scratches, stains, and yellowing
Doesn’t Get Easier Than This
You can use a variety of tools to apply this epoxy resin. Brushes, rollers, and even syringes can be used to pour and spread the finish. The product is 100% self-leveling. It’s perfect for the tops of tables, counters, bars. It can even be dyed to compliment custom wood art creations.
Fit for an Artist’s Eyes
We found it super easy to tint and dye this resin. You can mix mica powder, alcohol-based inks, or liquid pigments into the mixed formula. The cured finish is as smooth as glass. It will not yellow or blush.
While we used the finish on wood, it was nice to know that the BPA-free formula could also be used on other materials. Customers have gotten good results on everything from concrete to ceramic. We were pleased to finally have a product that could be used for virtually all of our decoupaging, casting, and craft projects.
Since TotalBoat’s epoxy does not contain and VOCs, it is safe to use inside. This makes it easier to set up a suitable working environment. You don’t need to wait for the weather to finish your project.
Coverage You Can Count On
TotalBoat epoxy is 100% waterproof. For this reason, we highly recommend it for tabletops, bar tops, counters, and other beverage-related creations. It’s so much easier to care for than varnish. It even offers higher heat resistance. Its high viscosity and high build properties give it a stunningly thick appearance. Since you can pour several flood coats of this product, you can use it to suspend objects between layers of epoxy.
At 1/8 inch thick, a 1-gallon kit total boat epoxy covers 12 square feet. You need to consider the sides and any dents or extra surfaces when calculating the square footage of your tabletop.
Pros
- Resists scratches, stains, and yellowing
- 100% waterproof upon curing
- Can be used on a wide range of surfaces, including but not limited to wood
- BPA-free formula that contains no VOCs
- Made in the U.S.A.
- 1-gallon kit (contains ½ gallon resin and ½ gallon hardener
- Self-levelling
- An excellent alternative to harsh chemical alternatives
Cons
- Will yellow and delaminate when exposed to UV rays
Casting Resin vs Tabletop Epoxy Resin
Casting and tabletop epoxy resins are popular choices for arts, crafts, and home improvement projects. However, both of these commodities are designed with different tasks in mind. In this article, we provide a thorough and comparative review of casting and tabletop epoxy resins.
6. Incredible Solutions Pourable Plastic Your Perfect Kit for River Tables and Small Project
Incredible Solution’s Pourable Plastic Clear Casting Resin is engineered for deep pours, such as thick river tables, live edges, casts, and embedded objects. It comes as a simple two-part solution consisting of a 1/2-gallon base resin and a 3/4-gallon curing agent. You mix the 2-to-1 ratio to get a low viscosity liquid with a long working window.
Pourable Plastic Deep Pour- Easy mixing metrics
- Lengthy working time
- Deep pours (up to 2 inches)
This clear casting resin can be poured in applications as thick as 2 inches. It can be colored with mica pigment powders to create a one-of-a-kind aesthetic. Or else, you can take advantage of its naturally crystal clear appearance.
It’s important to mention that the product cures slowly. A single application takes anywhere between 18 and 24 hours to harden. As such, it needs to be stabilized and set in a clean, dust-free environment.
It’s worth mentioning that this pourable resin is made in the United States. UV stabilizers prevent the casting resin from yellowing after prolonged sun exposure. Feel free to use this epoxy for semi-outdoor applications, such as shaded patio tables and bars.
Pourable Plastic is a low-exothermic and low-viscosity product. Plus, it does not have a distinguishable odor. Nor does it contain any VOCs.
We found that it was super easy to work with. With such a slow curing window, you can easily pop any bubbles before your mold sets. It’s perfect for encapsulation projects.
Incredible Solution’s Pourable Plastic is an excellent casting resin for beginners. Its slow curing time and deep pouring capabilities give users total control over their results. It’s suitable for a wide range of applications, including river tables, bottle cap or encapsulation tabletops, and jewelry.
3-gallon Kit Pourable Plastic Casting Resin – Longest Working Time for your Large-Scale Projects
Specially designed for bulky river tables and large castings, the 3-gallon kit by Incredible Solutions leaves nothing to be desired. It comprises a 2-gallon resin and a 1-gallon curing agent, which should be enough for most bulk casting projects.
The mixing formula by volume is easy to follow: two parts base resin + one part curing agent. The ideal working temperature is between 23-29℃, close enough to the RT (room temperature). It means you won’t have to bother creating special conditions.
Both working and curing times are considerable. If “quality over speed” is your motto or you prefer to go slow on the project, this resin will meet your needs without a doubt. The finish has high gloss, is crystal clear and 100% solids.
Pourable Plastic Casting Resin 3-Gal Kit- Perfect for river tables, live edges & casting
- Blemish and water-resistant
- 2:1 ratio
Over-the-Top Thickness
Unlike most coating epoxies, this beginner-friendly resin is capable of 2” pours. Such characteristic makes “Pourable Plastic” our top pick for encapsulation projects, embedding objects into a surface, and casting figurines. It is an excellent fit for river tables and live edge tables. Smaller projects like DIY jewelry are a piece of cake with this product as well.
Durable as it may be, the epoxy is perceptive to temperature fluctuations and flexing. River tables must be adequately supported, glass and metal materials in them are not continually contracting or expanding due to sudden changes in temperature.
Color me Impressed
Although it is not recommended to mix epoxy with paint or any oil-based substances, other tint options won’t disappoint. Mica pigment powders are a perfect match for this casting resin: glitter and shimmer, glowing and metallic colorants, vivid colors from grayish violet to peacock green, and last but not least – affordable prices.
Before utilizing dyes in an actual project, take a material sample and see how a colorant works with the epoxy. Begin with a small amount of pigment and continue until the desired color is achieved.
Second-to-None Service
The Incredible Solutions team proves time and again that they cherish their customers and are happy to back any resin project. According to the reviews and my own experience, the manufacturer provides easy-to-understand instructions with the kit.
The technical support answers any project-related questions promptly, helps you choose the right product for every particular need, plan the projects, and troubleshoot it. If any delivery or quality issues arise, Incredible Solutions solve them incredibly fast.
Make sure the epoxy isn’t exposed to direct sunlight permanently if the surface under the coating is white or light-colored. Over time, the yellowing may start to show.
Pros
- Incredibly long work times
- 2” deep pour for casting
- No volatile organic compounds (VOC)
- UV inhibitors added, resists yellowing
- No odor
- Low exothermic heat
- Made in the USA, technical support provided
Cons
- Prone to bubbles if cured for less than 72h
- Softens at 120℃
7. FGCI DEEP Pour Epoxy – Ultra-Thick Casting Resin
FGCI DEEP Pour Epoxy is an ultra-thick casting resin. This two-part 3/4-gallon kit can be used to create 2 to 4 inch pours. It’s perfect for river tables, live edges, casts, and more. The formula is super clear. And glossy However, it can easily be tinted with a bit of mica powder.
FCGI DEEP Pour Epoxy Resin Kit - Long working window
- Flexible aesthetics
- Low viscosity
UV blockers ensure that this epoxy can withstand exposure to direct sunlight. However, we do not recommend it for permanent outdoor applications. FGCI’s thick, glassy finish looks super professional.
Keep in mind that deep pours take a long time to cure. It can take anywhere from 32 to 72 hours for the formula to gel. Meanwhile, it takes 36 to 72 hours for the product to cure. The product’s workability window opens 72 hours after an initial pour.
Pros
- Long working window
- Flexible aesthetics
- Low viscosity
- Clear and glassy
- Deep pour (2 to 4 inches)
Cons
- Long time to cure
8. Art ‘N Glow Clear Casting and Coating Epoxy Resin – Limitless Art Applications
The kit consists of two bottles: epoxy resin and a hardener, 8 oz. each. The resin system boasts a standard 1:1 mixing ratio and a glass-like, clear & durable finish. It mixes, flows, and levels smoothly, making it one of the top options for the first-time project in the market.
The working time of approximately 40 minutes allows you to make your project fly with no rush, while a quite long curing process (up to 72h) may tax your patience. No worries, though, the result will make you see it was worth it. No bubbles, perfect leveling on its own – a beginner artist’s dream.
Art 'N Glow Clear Casting and Coating Epoxy Resin- Great for beginners
- Self degassing
- Self-leveling
Works Perfectly with any Material – Let the Ideas Flow
The Art ‘N Glow products are well-known for their compatibility with a vast range of surfaces. Although it is best used with wood, ceramics, paper, canvas, stones, rocks & concrete, granite will do just as fine. It means that the product is suitable for coating and protecting paintings & photos, tabletops & counters, paper artworks & decorative kitchenware.
This resin’s formula is developed in such a flexible way that the epoxy resin matches every imaginable casting mold. The possibilities are endless: jewelry, figurines, DIY decorations of any kind, fluid pour surfaces – you name it, Art ‘N Glow can do it.
Native Pigment Powders
The Art ‘N Glow manufacturer has taken care of paints to boot. They’ve created perfectly matched art supplies to boost your creativity and bring imagination to the next level. Pearl powders give your artworks an elegant shimmering finish; alcohol ink draws a unique picture on the crafts; resin tints allow you to combine colors to your heart’s content.
For even crazier ideas, opt for pigments glowing in the dark. You’re welcome to choose from 14 bright colors and enjoy the glow for up to 12 hours. Then simply recharge the craft by leaving it in the sun.
Don’t mix resin from multiple smaller bottles, let alone with any other epoxy! The chemical reaction is unpredictable and may cause extremely high heat and smoke.
Pros
- Suitable for both casting and coating
- Crystal clear and hard as a rock
- Non-toxic, VOC & BPA-free
- Compatible with lots of surfaces
- Tint-friendly
- Non-flammable
- Can be used indoors, no smell
- Made in the USA, 100% money-back guarantee
Cons
- Mixing in powders results in them settling on the bottom
Casting Resin or Tabletop Epoxy
Casting resins and tabletop epoxies are used for similar applications. However, river tables, live edges, and chunky casts require casting resins that are capable of pulling off thick pours. Meanwhile, thinner, wider coverage, such as table and bar coatings, require coats of tabletop epoxy.
Drying Times
The accelerated drying times of most tabletop epoxies can be problematic to anyone trying to fill a deep mold. High-viscosity, reactive formulas are more likely to crack, warp, and even discolor when poured into a deep mold.
On the other hand, casting resins cure slowly. Slow drying times can be problematic. Dust and dirt are much more likely to adhere to moist surfaces. Nevertheless, creators have more opportunities to eliminate air bubbles and other workable imperfections.
Durability
Tabletop epoxies also tend to be more durable. They can usually withstand light abrasions and punctures. On the other hand, casting epoxies are easily dented and scratched.
Viscosity
Casting resins tend to have thin, runny textures. As a result, they fair best when poured into a constricted area, such as frame or mold. On the other hand, tabletop resins are thick and gooey. Much like paint, they can be poured over a horizontal surface without needlessly running over the edges.
Depth
Ultimately, you need to choose that can be poured to an appropriate depth. A single casting resin pour may be anywhere from 2 to 4 inches thick. Meanwhile, most tabletop resin pours can only be ¼ inch thick. Obvious application options for casting resins include river tables, live edges, casts, and encapsulated objects.
Workability
Long curing times typically translate to extended workability. It is easy to remove air bubbles from resins with long curing times. However, you must also take extra care to prevent the accumulation of dust and debris.
Performance
Tabletop resins are typically only used to coat and protect horizontal surfaces. Whereas, casting resins are used for decorative embellishments, encapsulation projects, jewelry, and much more. Experienced epoxy artists often refer to epoxy resins as deep pours. These formulas are typically used to fill areas that are 2 or more inches deep.
Casting epoxy cure slowly. However, a single pour can fill a rather deep recess. On the other hand, it would take several shallow pours of tabletop epoxy to fill an equivalent area. The results would most certainly lack a crystal clear, consistent finish.
Aesthetics
Both casting and tabletop epoxies form glassy, crystal clear finishes. However, many people like to amend their formulas with a bit of tinted, metallic, or even glow-in-the-dark mica powder. It’s essential to always choose an epoxy-friendly amendment. Many alternative pigments (such as oil-based paints and dyes) do not disperse evenly when mixed into epoxy finishes.
Mixing Things Up
Casting epoxies tend to have more dynamic mixing ratios than their tabletop counterparts. Most casting resins have a 2-to-1 or 3-to-2 ratio. Whereas, most tabletop epoxies have a 1-to-1 ratio. Complicated ratios can be problematic when it comes time to creating small casts, such as embedded casts and jewelry. A slight mistake may result in cloudiness or curing issues. Nevertheless, casting resin is essential when it comes to making anything thicker than an inch.
A Few More Considerations
Some epoxy resins contain UV blockers. These additives prevent resins from yellowing after prolonged outdoor exposure. Always target epoxies with UV blockers when looking to create something that’s going to be placed on a patio, porch, or sunny window sill.
It’s essential that you always choose the appropriate resin for your project. Casting resins tend to have a lower viscosity, longer curing times, and longer working window. More importantly, they are best suited for thick casts. On the other hand, tabletop resins have a higher viscosity, shorter curing times, and very limited working windows. They are designed to produce thin yet durable films on tabletops and other high-traffic facades.
Both of these products work well when used as intended. You should always choose a product that is well-suited for your job at hand. When you do, you can expect the best possible results.
Both FGCI DEEP Pour Epoxy and Incredible Solutions Pourable Plastic are both amazing casting resins. Check out these user-friendly products before starting your next epoxy project. Be sure to check out our tabletop epoxy recommendations for all your table and bar coating needs.
How to Choose the Best Epoxy Resin for Wood – Buyer’s Guide
We’ve offered you our honest opinion of five of our favourite epoxy resins for wood. How do you choose your epoxy resin? We all know that every craft project requires a unique approach. At the same time, our intentions and expectations for products are going to vary. In the sections below, we go over some of the key considerations you need to make before choosing an epoxy resin for your project.
Appearance
AppearanceMost artists and craftsmen are looking for a glass-like crystal-clear resin. To achieve near-perfect results, you need to find a resin that protects against yellowing. This is not as big of a deal if you intend to amend your epoxy with dye or ink.
Bubbling
Even experienced craftsmen experience bubbling sometimes. These unsightly air pockets have the potential to ruin the appearance of your epoxy resin surface. Choose a formula that allows bubbles to rise to the surface. Make sure to only work in an environment with suitable temperature and humidity. When all else fails, use a heat gun or torch to eradicate bubbles from the surface of your set epoxy resin coating.
Materials and Durability
A quality epoxy resin finish should be able to withstand its fair share of rough handling. Below, you’ll find key specifications you need to account for when purchasing a finish that will work well on wooden tables and bars.
Water
WaterEpoxy resin is a traditional coating for tabletops, bars, and outdoor surfaces. Naturally, these surfaces are predisposed to water damage. A 100% waterproof coating will help prevent these surfaces from developing unsightly watermarks.
Abrasion
Hard-wearing surfaces should be able to resist most abrasions. While never suggest using an epoxy resin-coated surface as a cutting board, we do look for products that can interact with objects without developing noticeable incisions.
UV
Unfortunately, most epoxy resins are highly susceptible to UV damage. If you’re looking for a durable outdoor table coating, look for non-yellowing formulas. What’s more, look into purchasing a UV-resistant topcoat in addition to your chosen finish. Even the epoxy resins that contain UV blockers are susceptible to damage after prolonged exposure to UV rays.
Application
Two-part epoxy resins harden quickly. Once you mix the hardener with the resin, you have just a few minutes to pour and spread the coating before it sets. Epoxy hardeners are easily altered by temperature and humidity. If you’re new to epoxy resin, choose a product with longer work time. Work times are usually less than an hour. You don’t want to be rushed when mixing and applying your finish. You’ll also want time to remove any bubbles or blushing.
Most epoxy resins must be stored and used at temperatures above 75 degrees Fahrenheit and in areas with very low humidity. Poor working conditions will yield poor results. Be sure to read each manufacturer’s application specifications before applying their product.
Self-Leveling
Self-levelling epoxy will make your job so much easier. You can use this type of epoxy to fill in cracks, inlays, and imperfections on the surface of a piece of wood. Since there is no need for a brush or roller, you won’t have to worry about leaving behind streaks and other surface imperfections.
Ratio
As we mentioned before, most epoxy resins come as two-parts: a resin base and a hardener. In most cases, you mix these in equal parts. That hasn’t stopped any manufactures from developing some pretty wonky formula ratios. While that 5-1 ratio epoxy resin kit might save you some shelf space, it is probably a recipe for disaster.
Cure Times
Complaints about epoxy resin cure times tend to be two-fold. For one, inexperienced users are often frustrated by how fast their resin cures. They struggle to set their product and remove bubbles before it is too late. On the other hand, some products take days to harden. Many DIYers fear the worst when their creations are stuck in soft stages for too long.
Food Safe Applications
Many epoxy resins are used on surfaces that are designed to indirectly come in contact with food. If you are looking to finish a tabletop, bar, coasters, or another food surface, make sure that your resin of choice complies with all the FDA requirements. While you’re at it, make sure that the formula is non-toxic and free from potentially harmful VOCs. Even non-toxic formulas should be applied in well-ventilated areas. In most cases, a safety mask, glasses, and gloves are essential.
Final Thoughts
We hope you enjoyed our picks for the top epoxy resins for wood. These incredible finishing products will enable you to preserve your wooden crafts for years. If you’re in a rush, check out our editor’s pick, the incredible ProMarine Supplies Crystal Clear Tabletop Epoxy Resin. When you are finished with your epoxy resin wood project, let us know how it turned out by dropping a comment in the section below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question? Feel free to submit in comments below. We regularly receive questions about buying epoxy resin, which we are happy to answer here.
Where to you buy Epoxy Resins?
We suggest to buy from Amazon or directly from branded manufacturers. Avoid purchasing non-branded resins as quality may vary and the final result could be disappointing.
How much epoxy resin do I you for a project?
You should measure your project and not just use any of online calculators around. Great videos on how to get the closest calculations could be found here and here.
Which dyes can be used to color epoxy resin?
Any highly concentrated epoxy resin colorant for resin. Just choose the art colors you need and mix them properly. Try this set as a starter kit.
How to mix the epoxy resin components?
First of all, try mixing by volume, not weight as the density of resin may vary (see instruction on bot A and B bottles). So just keep in mind that weight is not identical. If you now measure resin and hardener 1:1 the mixing ratio won’t be correct.
Hi, do you know what’s the heat temperature for promarine epoxy? What temprature it will cured epoxy with stand in general? Thnx for the article btw, nice samples.
As soon as epoxy is cured it’s resistance temperature will be around 135°F or ~60C as for ProMarine epoxies (but actually for any other epoxies). You could place hot cups or plates on it (no worries here), just don’t put anything straight from the oven.
I’m about to start my first project and want to use multiple layers of resin. How soon after the first coat can I pour the second one? And how do I get rid of bubbles if they appear in between?
Curing time is the answer. This characteristic indicates how long it takes the epoxy to harden. Depending on the product of your choice, you’ll have to wait for 12-72 hours until the surface is ready for the next layer of epoxy.
To find out the curing time, check out the table at the beginning of this article if you opt for one of the resins recommended by us. Otherwise, look for it in the instructions that come with the kit and follow them precisely.
When it comes to bubbles, all you need to cope with them is a heat gun. Pour the epoxy resin, leave it for approx. 5 minutes to let the bubbles emerge to the surface, and then hover the gun over them until they’re gone. Easy as that.
Don’t hesitate for too long, though. Once the epoxy hardens, the bubbles are there to stay.
Thank you for this awesome review! Tell me, please, what requirements does the wood have to meet to be used with epoxy? Can I choose any kind of wood for my project?
To begin with, any type of wood is acceptable for epoxy crafts because resins don’t have any effect on the material’s structure. They only create a glossy protective coating.
Before application, double-check if the wood is in good condition. Clean dirt and stains, remove splinters and bark that flakes off and take care of other imperfections.
After that, even the surface with sandpaper or orbit sander. Clear the dust when you’re done, preferably with a vacuum cleaner. The wood should be 100% clean and dry before applying the epoxy.
Are epoxy resins really prone to yellowing after some time in use?
Yes, they are. It happens exceptionally fast if the resin is continually exposed to direct UV. Some epoxies include UV inhibitors allowing them to preserve crystal clarity for a long time. However, we don’t recommend you to leave river tables or other epoxy-coated objects outdoors.
If you go with UV-protected epoxy resins and keep your DIY crafts indoors – yellowing won’t trouble you for a year or so. Also, avoid white and light-colored surfaces, yellowing is hardly noticeable on dark ones.
I absolutely enjoyed making a river table myself, even though I’ve spent more than 20 hours doing it 🙂 I would like to give it a neat finish. Still, I’m not sure which one to pick. Can you please help me with that? Is it even a good idea?
It is a good idea to seal the wooden elements of the table. A suitable finish will fasten the material and make it look smooth and glossy, emphasizing the natural structure. To achieve such an effect, we prefer oil-based polishes.
Be careful with wood stains, though. They could give your wooden craft a stunning natural look, but only if you use those BEFORE applying the epoxy. Used directly on the resin surface, a stain will color it, most likely. The result may be quite unpredictable, so we wouldn’t risk it.
So, I finished my first epoxy river table and was happy with the result at first. But then, a couple of weeks later, the bubbles began to appear. I’m confused, tbh.
I followed the instructions precisely, set the right temperature, popped air bubbles with a heat gun, but they still surfaced in time. Could you please clarify what was my mistake and how to avoid it in the future?
Too bad something like this had happened to your major project! The reason for this is porosity typical for a hardwood material. If not properly sealed, the pores will release air and cause bubbles to rise. You won’t experience this trouble with your future projects if you choose softwood instead.
If you prefer hardwood even so, be sure to use a sealer on the wood before it contacts the epoxy resin. Reach out to our team, and we’ll be happy to help you choose just the right wood sealer for your particular case.
Then you’re going to need a brush with fine bristles to apply the sealer. After 30 to 120-minute wait (depends on the product), the table is ready to be poured.
My first attempt with the epoxy turned out to be a success – I got a clear bubble-free surface, just like I wanted. I repeated the whole procedure for the second time, following the same guidelines while mixing and pouring. I even used the same product – SRC epoxy resin, so it’s hardly at fault here. But the result was different, to put it mildly: the pour turned cloudy and bubbly. Why do you think this happened?
We’ve all been there at some point 😉 You may have followed the same steps, but the temperature and moisture levels in the room are far from stable. They have affected the substance, most likely.
The average recommended temperature for working with epoxy resin is around 23℃. Still, each product has different requirements, make sure to check them beforehand.
If the environment is more chill than required, the epoxy will be full of bubbles that don’t pop no matter what you do. The resin won’t flow smoothly, coming out in chunks. Warm the bottles in the water before use and heat the room appropriately.
Humid air may also be responsible for milky epoxy resin. It is best to keep humidity levels under 50%, which can be a tough task without an air conditioner or dehumidifier. Buying the latter won’t cost you a fortune, so we highly recommend you to do so.
Finally, make sure the mixing supplies you use with the epoxy (such as mixing containers and sticks) are perfectly clean and dry.