How to use Epoxy Resin
This is a step-by-step guide on how to use two-part epoxy resin. Using two-part epoxy can be confusing, so we’ll walk you through how to ensure a perfect finish! Epoxy is most commonly used for wood tabletops, as it is food safe and provides a crystal clear finish.
Before beginning, make sure whatever you are sealing is clean! Also, it is best to work with epoxy at a room temperate of 70-80 degrees.
Step 1: Measure the Resin and Hardener
Two-part epoxy comes with a Resin and a Hardener. Measure one part of each. It is important to make sure you have equal amounts of both before mixing.
Step 2: Mix the Resin and Hardener
Depending on how big your project is, pour the two measured parts into a cup or bucket and mix for 2 minutes. Stir the mixture slow and steady. You can mix with either a paint stick, popsicle stick , paint mixer, or your drill. Do not stir quickly and if using a drill, make sure to set your drill to the lowest speed. Stirring too quickly will add air bubbles to the epoxy.
Step 3: Apply Seal Coat
To apply the seal coat, brush on a thin coat of the epoxy mixture. I typically just use a gloved hand to apply this layer, but you could also use a 2” Chip Paint Brush. A seal coat is important to fill unseen pores in the wood and improve bonding when you pour your flood coat. This coat also prevents air bubbles from forming during Step 4.
Step 4: Apply Flood Coat
Before pouring your flood coat, ensure that your project is level. This is important because epoxy is self-leveling.
To apply the flood coat, pour epoxy mixture onto surface and allow it to spread. You can assist the spread with your gloved hand or using a putty spreader. A flood coat should be applied in 1/8” layers. Typically, one to three coats is all that is needed for a table top! However you can apply as many coats as needed.
Recoating can be done within 4 to 8 hours. If you don’t recoat during this timeframe (and the epoxy has fully dried), you’ll need to lightly sand with 220 or 320 grit. This ensures you have a good bonding surface! After lightly sanding, wipe down with denatured alcohol before applying your next flood coat.
Step 5: Remove Air Bubbles
If you see air bubbles in the epoxy, you can use a heat gun or your blow dry to get them out! This part is so rewarding!! Simply put your heat gun or hair-dryer on the highest heat setting but the lowest airflow and blow across the air bubbles. We recommend using a heat gun for larger projects, but a blow dryer works just fine for smaller resin crafts.
The heat will cause the air bubbles to rise to the surface and pop. Ideally this process will remove them from your project entirely.
Step 6: Allow to Dry
In order to prevent dust and debris from landing in the epoxy while it dries, we recommend covering your project with something. We have used just about anything, from tents to cardboard boxes! The curing process will take approximately 24 hours.
Interested in projects using resin? Check out our DIY Wood Slice Coasters!
Epoxy Resin Links
We use Elliott Products Two Part Epoxy – the tricky thing is you have to get it off eBay. We linked a similar from Lowes if you do not want to purchase through eBay.
How to Use Epoxy Resin
Equipment
- Gloves
- Paint or Popsicle Stick
- Cups (for measuring & mixing)
- Heat Gun (or Blow Dryer)
- Mixing Paddle (optional)
materials
- Two Part Epoxy
- 220 or 320 - grit sandpaper (if needed for recoating)
- Denatured Alcohol
Instructions
- Measure the Resin and Hardener
- Mix the Resin and Hardener
- Apply Seal Coat
- Apply Flood Coat
- Removing Air Bubbles
- Drying