How to Epoxy a Table Like a Pro
Epoxy tables have become one of the most popular ways to highlight the natural beauty of wood while adding a smooth, durable finish. In this tutorial, John from John’s Urban Timber walks you through each step of the process — from prepping your slab to pouring, curing, and finishing the epoxy for a professional-grade result.
Step 1: Prepare the Wood
Start with a clean, flat, and fully dried slab. Remove any bark, loose debris, or soft spots, and sand the surface smooth. Sealing the edges with a light coat of epoxy or shellac helps prevent air bubbles later.
Step 2: Build a Level Workspace
A level work surface is critical. Even a slight tilt can cause uneven epoxy thickness. Check your surface with a long level before mixing the resin.
Step 3: Measure and Mix Epoxy
Always follow the manufacturer’s mixing ratio precisely — either by weight or volume. Mix slowly for two to three minutes, scraping the sides and bottom of your container. Pour into a clean cup and mix again for the best consistency. If you’re adding color or metallic pigment, do, so after the resin is fully combined.
Step 4: Pour the Epoxy
Pour the epoxy slowly and evenly across the surface, allowing it to self-level. For river-style tables or deep voids, multiple thinner pours are better than one large pour. Take your time and let gravity do the work.
Step 5: Remove Air Bubbles
Use a small torch or heat gun to gently pass over the surface and pop bubbles as they rise. Repeat every 5–10 minutes during the first 30–40 minutes of curing. Avoid holding the heat in one place for too long.
Step 6: Curing Time
Allow the epoxy to cure undisturbed for 24–72 hours, depending on temperature and product type. Cover the table to keep out dust. Warmer conditions generally speed up the process, while cooler air can extend curing time.
Step 7: Sanding and Finishing
Once cured, sand the surface starting around 220 grit and work your way up to 400 or higher for a glass-like finish. Clean thoroughly and apply your preferred topcoat — such as hardwax oil or polyurethane — to protect the surface and bring out the natural grain.
Pro Tips
• Always pre-seal porous wood to reduce trapped air.
• Mix epoxy in small batches to maintain control.
• Maintain shop temperatures around 70°F for best results.
• Let each layer fully cure before adding the next.
Common Questions
What epoxy should I use?
Use a deep-pour epoxy for thick sections or river tables, and a tabletop epoxy for thinner coats or surface sealing.
How do I keep bubbles out of my epoxy?
Seal coat the wood first, mix slowly, and use a heat gun to release surface bubbles right after pouring.
How long should epoxy cure before sanding?
Most systems are ready for light sanding after 24 hours and fully cured within 48–72 hours.
Ready to Get Started?
We offer live-edge slabs, epoxy kits, and full custom table builds right here in Whitmore Lake, Michigan. Whether you’re a DIY woodworker or want us to build your table from start to finish, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to order slabs, supplies, or a custom piece.