The Art and Science of Epoxy Resin
Creating epoxy resin tables is a fascinating process that combines science, craftsmanship, and artistry. The result is a stunning, unique piece of furniture that combines the best of nature and technology.
Step 1: Preparing the Wood
The first step in making any epoxy resin table is choosing the right wood. Live-edge wood is a popular choice because it showcases the wood’s natural contours and imperfections. This adds an organic feel to the table, which contrasts beautifully with the resin’s smooth, glossy surface.
Once the wood is selected, it must be carefully prepared. This involves sanding the surface to remove rough patches, cleaning it to ensure no debris or moisture remains, and allowing the wood to dry fully.
Step 2: Building the Mold
Next, artisans build a mould to hold the resin while it cures. Depending on the desired shape and design, they typically make moulds from silicone or wood. The mould ensures the resin is poured in the right places and helps achieve the perfect waterfall effect. Properly sealing the mould is essential to avoid any resin leakage, which could disrupt the process.
Step 3: Mixing the Epoxy Resin
Once the mould is ready, the next step is to mix the epoxy resin. The resin is combined with a hardener in a specific ratio, typically around 2:1. The mixing process must be done carefully, as any inconsistency can affect the quality of the finish. The resin mixture should be smooth, with no bubbles or air pockets.
At this stage, dyes or pigments can be added to the resin to create a variety of colours.
Step 4: Pouring and Curing the Resin
The pouring process is where the magic happens. They carefully pour the resin into the mould, paying particular attention to the edges to achieve the waterfall effect. The resin then cures, which can take several hours to several days depending on the thickness of the pour and environmental conditions.
Once the resin cures, we sand down any excess resin and polish the surface to a high gloss. This sanding and polishing process takes time, as we may need to apply and smooth out multiple resin layers.
Step 5: Sanding and Polishing
The final step is sanding the table to remove imperfections and give the resin a smooth, glass-like finish. Sanding is done in multiple stages, starting with coarse-grit sandpaper and gradually moving to finer grits. Once the table is entirely soft, it is polished to enhance the resin’s natural shine and clarity.