Epoxy resin dining tables have become very popular in modern homes, cafés, and restaurants. Their glossy shine, smooth finish, and long-lasting strength make them a favourite choice for interior decoration. Whether you are planning to make an epoxy table for your home or want to start a small business, learning the correct pouring techniques is very important.

In this blog, we will explain simple epoxy pouring tips, coffee tables common mistakes to avoid, and step-by-step instructions. The language is easy so even beginners can understand the full process.

What is an Epoxy Resin Dining Table?

An epoxy resin dining table is made by mixing epoxy resin with a hardener. When both are mixed, the liquid mixture slowly becomes hard and crystal clear. Makers often combine epoxy with:

Wood slabs
River table designs
Colours and pigments
Stones or decorative objects

The final result looks shiny, strong, and luxurious.

Why Epoxy Resin Tables Are Popular

Epoxy tables are trending because:

They look elegant and modern
The surface is waterproof and heat-resistant
Easy to clean
You can customise colours, shapes, and wood styles
They are durable and long-lasting

Because of these reasons, many homeowners and restaurant owners prefer epoxy dining tables.

Important Pouring Tips for Epoxy Resin Dining Table Tops

Making an epoxy resin table top is not difficult, but you must follow the correct method. Below are the best pouring tips that will help you get a bubble-free, smooth, and shiny finish.

1. Choose the Right Epoxy Resin

Not all epoxy resins are suitable for large table pours. Select a resin that is specially made for deep pours or table-top coating.

Tips:

Read product instructions carefully
Check curing time (slow cure is better for deep pours)
Make sure the resin is UV-resistant so it does not turn yellow

2. Prepare Your Workspace

Epoxy resin dries fast, so your work area must be clean and ready.

Things to prepare:

A level and stable table
Plastic sheets on the floor to avoid mess
Gloves and mask for safety
Mixing buckets and stir sticks
Heat gun or torch for bubble removal

A clean workspace ensures no dust gets inside the resin.

3. Seal the Wood Surface First

If you are making a wood and epoxy “river table”, sealing is very important.

Why seal the wood?

Prevents air bubbles
Stops wood from absorbing epoxy
Gives a smooth base for the final pour

Apply a thin layer of resin, wait for it to cure, and then move to the next step.

4. Build a Strong Mold

Your mold must hold the liquid resin without leaking. Most people use MDF boards or melamine boards.

Make sure:

All edges are sealed with silicone
The mold is completely level
Use mold-release spray to remove the table easily later

If your mold leaks, it can waste expensive resin—so double-check it.

5. Measure Resin Correctly

Epoxy resin works only if the ratio is correct. Most brands use a 1:1 ratio or 2:1 ratio. Read instructions carefully and measure properly.

Important:

Never estimate by eye—always measure using a scale or measuring cup.

Incorrect ratio = sticky, soft, or uncured resin.

6. Mix Slowly to Avoid Bubbles

When mixing resin and hardener, stir slowly and continuously. Fast mixing traps air and creates more bubbles.

Mixing tips:

Scrape the sides and bottom of the container
Mix for at least 3–5 minutes
Use two-bucket mixing method for the best results

Slow mixing gives a clear, bubble-free finish.

7. Add Colors Carefully

If you want to add pigments, glitter, or dyes, do it after proper mixing of resin and hardener.

Remember:

Add only small amounts
Too much pigment can stop curing
Use high-quality mica powders for natural shine

Test colour on a small sample before pouring on the full table.

8. Pour in Layers for Deep Tables

If your table needs more than 2 inches of thickness, do not pour at one time. Resin can heat up and create cracks.

Layering tip:

Pour 1-inch to 1.5-inch layers
Let each layer partially cure before the next
This avoids overheating and shrinkage

Layered pouring creates a stronger table top.

9. Remove Bubbles Immediately

Once you pour the resin, small bubbles will appear. Use a heat gun or butane torch to remove them.

How to do it:

Keep the gun 6–10 inches above
Move in circular motion
Do not overheat one spot

Removing bubbles early gives a glass-like shine.

10. Cover the Table While It Cures

Dust is the biggest enemy of epoxy resin. After pouring, cover the table with a tent-like structure or plastic sheet.

This prevents:

Dust
Hair
Insects
Debris

A clean curing environment means a flawless surface.

11. Be Patient — Curing Takes Time

Epoxy resin needs 24–72 hours to fully cure depending on the brand. Do not touch or move the table during this time.

Full hardness may take up to 7 days.

Patience is the key to a perfect table.

12. Sanding and Polishing for a Glossy Finish

After the resin dries, you may notice small imperfections. Smooth them out by sanding.

Steps:

Start with 120 grit
Move to 220, 320, 400, 600
Finish with 1000 or 2000 grit for extra shine

After sanding, apply:

Polishing compound
Buffing pad

This creates a high-gloss, professional look.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Pouring too fast

Creates bubbles and uneven thickness.

❌ Using the wrong resin type

May lead to yellowing or improper curing.

❌ Not sealing wood

Causes bubbles and cloudy resin.

❌ Pouring too thick at once

Resin overheats and cracks.

❌ Working in a humid room

Humidity affects curing and shine.

Avoiding these mistakes will save your time and material.

Final Tips for Beginners

Always wear gloves and a mask
Work in a ventilated area
Keep all tools ready before mixing
Follow resin manufacturer guidelines
Test small batches before making a big table

If you practice small projects like coasters or trays first, you will gain confidence for bigger tables.

Conclusion

Making an epoxy resin dining table top is a fun and creative process. With the right pouring techniques, anyone can achieve a beautiful, glossy, and long-lasting finish. The key is to prepare well, measure accurately, pour slowly, and allow proper curing time.

Whether you’re making a table for your home or for a customer, following these simple tips will help you create stunning results every time.

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