This project was created by Chris from A Glimpse Inside, and it’s perfect for anyone looking to repurpose waste materials into something beautiful. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make a striking table or stool using resin and scrap pieces.
Materials:
- Scrap pieces from 90-degree brackets
- Two-part high-performance resin
- Thick set resin
- Silicone molds
- Tyvek tape
- Chamfer bit
- Sandpaper (various grits)
- Heat gun (optional)
- Random orbit sander
- Fuji spray gun
- Halcyon clear finish
Step 1: Gather Your Waste Materials
Chris was inspired by the waste produced from 90-degree brackets he had been using. Instead of throwing them away, he decided to create something new. By using leftover pieces, he aims to show that waste can be transformed into eye-catching projects.
Step 2: Prepare the Tapering Jig
To achieve a clean, tapered leg for the table, Chris demonstrates using a tapering jig. This jig is particularly useful if you don’t have a joiner, allowing for precise cuts on the table saw. Set a slight angle, cut, and then turn the piece 90 degrees to create a taper.
Step 3: Sanding the Legs
After cutting, Chris sands the legs down. He prefers to mount his random orbit sander upside down for better control, especially on smaller pieces. The feet of the legs are chamfered by hand for a soft, organic look, which also prevents splinters.
Step 4: Assembling with Silicone Molds
To assemble the table, Chris uses silicone molds from Crafted Elements. These molds make the project much easier. He spaces out the 90-degree pieces between the legs using his eye for spacing, eliminating the need for a spacer block.
Step 5: Mixing and Pouring the Resin
Chris prepares to pour resin by mixing a two-part high-performance resin. He emphasizes that the pieces would float if not anchored correctly, so he uses the resin itself to hold everything in place. After mixing, he pours the resin into the mold and ensures all pieces are submerged.
Step 6: Curing the Resin
The thick set resin takes about 36 hours to cure, especially in colder temperatures. Chris notes that he should have prepped the pieces with a layer of resin beforehand to avoid tiny bubbles. This step is crucial for a clean finish.
Step 7: Sanding and Finishing
Once cured, Chris sands the piece to remove any imperfections and bubbles. He uses different sanding methods, including a random orbit sander and a rotex for tougher spots. After sanding, he applies a chamfer around the top edge for a smoother finish.
Step 8: Applying the Final Finish
For the final touch, Chris uses a combination of Fuji spray and Halcyon clear finish. This provides a translucent look that helps hide scratches, making it ideal for a household with kids.
Step 9: The Final Product
The completed project is a stunning conversation piece that can serve as a stool or a table. Chris showcases the piece in his backyard, highlighting its versatility and beauty.
Conclusion
This project not only makes use of waste materials but also showcases the beauty of resin work. Chris encourages viewers to experiment with their own ideas and materials.