How to Make River Coasters with Epoxy Resin and Wood

 This project is created by Tiffany from DIY Tiff. This engaging DIY project not only allows you to create stunning river coasters but also provides a chance to enhance your woodworking skills.

Follow this step-by-step guide to bring your creative vision to life!

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before starting the project, ensure you have all the necessary materials. For this project, you’ll need the following:

  • Pine wood (6″ x 36″ x 3/8″) – For best results, consider using thicker wood.
  • Epoxy resin – A resin that cures in layers is recommended.
  • Color pigments (Blue/Green recommended).
  • Silicone caulk – For sealing the mold.
  • Silicone spray – To prevent sticking.
  • Wood conditioner and stain – To finish the wood.
  • Cork for the base – To protect surfaces.
  • Clear Gorilla glue – For attaching cork.
  • Tools: Jigsaw, sanding block, rubber mallet, Dremel, sander, and a torch.

Step 2: Prepare the Wood

Start with your piece of pine wood. Mark it to cut it in half, as you will need smaller pieces for coasters.

Marking the wood for cutting

After cutting it in half, clamp the pieces down. This will stabilize the wood while you cut random curves with a jigsaw.

Step 3: Create the Mold Frame

To create a mold for pouring the resin, you will need to seal the edges properly. Use 100% silicone caulk around the frame’s edges to prevent any resin leakage.

Applying silicone caulk to the mold

After sealing, smooth out the caulk with your finger, ensuring the corners are also sealed.

Step 4: Apply Silicone Spray

Next, spray silicone spray on the frame. This will help the resin release easily once it has cured.

Spraying silicone on the mold

Step 5: Measure and Clamp the Wood

Measure 8.5 inches for the coasters, ensuring you have extra material for adjustments. Clamp the wood using small pieces of wood covered in duct tape to catch any resin leaks.

Step 6: Prepare the Epoxy Resin

Now for the fun part! Prepare your epoxy resin and mix in your chosen color pigment. Tiffany recommends using a blue-green color for a vibrant look.

Mixing the epoxy resin with color pigments

Step 7: Pour the Resin

Pour the resin in layers, ensuring each layer is no more than 1/4 inch thick. Spread the resin evenly, making sure it touches all edges.

Pouring the epoxy resin into the mold

Allow bubbles to rise, using a small torch to eliminate them. Keep an eye on the curing process and repeat this for subsequent layers.

Step 8: Remove from the Mold

Once the resin has cured, carefully remove the coasters from the mold. Use a rubber mallet to gently pry the sides and avoid damaging the wood.

Removing the coasters from the mold

Step 9: Sanding the Coasters

After removing the coasters, you may find some resin overflow. Instead of sanding it down, use a Dremel to grind it flush with the wood.

Grinding the edges with a Dremel

Start sanding with 200 grit sandpaper and work your way up to 3000 grit for a smooth finish. Wet sanding at 400 grit will help reduce scratches.

Step 10: Stain the Wood

Before cutting the coasters, apply wood conditioner to ensure an even stain. Stain the wood to your desired shade and allow it to dry. Multiple coats can be applied for a darker finish.

Applying wood stain to the coasters

Step 11: Cut the Coasters

Set up your table saw to cut the coasters into 4-inch squares. Use a fine blade to avoid chipping the resin.

Cutting the coasters with a table saw

After cutting, sand the edges again to ensure a smooth finish.

Step 12: Attach the Cork Base

Measure and cut squares of cork to attach to the bottom of each coaster. Use clear Gorilla glue for this step and weigh them down while they dry.

Attaching cork to the coasters

Step 13: Polish the Coasters

The final step is polishing the resin. Use a polishing compound and apply it in a circular motion to achieve a shiny finish. If you’re satisfied with the look before polishing, you can skip this step.

Polishing the resin for a shiny finish

Conclusion

You have now created beautiful river coasters with epoxy resin and wood! This project not only enhances your home decor but also showcases your skills.

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