How to Make a Resin Table Top Part 2

How to Apply Resin to a Tabletop: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparation and Initial Considerations

1. Review Part One: Before beginning, ensure that the tabletop is properly set up by referring to the initial setup guide.

2. Understand Resin Curing Factors: Temperature and volume significantly impact resin curing. The catalyst ratios provided are general guidelines and may need adjustment for your specific project.

3. Practice First: Starting with a large project can lead to failure. It’s recommended to practice with the resin at the exact temperature and thickness of your final project.

4. Access Additional Information: Extensive printed resources are available at TAP Plastics.

Mixing and Applying the First Layer

1. Mixing the Resin:

   • For the first layer, mix 1/2 gallon of resin.

   • Measure the hardener by drops per ounce—use five drops per ounce.

   • Since 64 ounces are used, add 320 drops of catalyst.

2. Importance of Accurate Measurement:

   • Over-catalyzing can ruin the project, while under-catalyzing can lead to an incomplete cure.

   • Carefully count drops to ensure accuracy.

3. Mixing and Pouring:

   • The resin starts clear and turns slightly yellow when the catalyst is added, indicating the chemical reaction has begun.

   • The yellowing disappears during the curing process, leaving the resin crystal clear.

   • Once thoroughly mixed, pour gently over embedments to avoid disturbance.

4. Maintaining the Proper Environment:

   • Work in a well-ventilated but not cold area.

   • Keep the tabletop at a minimum of 70°F during curing.

   • To maintain warmth, place a black-painted box over the surface. This absorbs sunlight, preventing dust and debris from settling.

Applying Additional Resin Layers

1. Monitoring the Gel Stage:

   • Allow the resin to gel (not fully cure) before pouring the next layer.

   • Test with a stir stick—if the surface appears wavy, curing is progressing.

   • Gel time varies; in this case, it took 1 hour.

2. Mixing the Second Layer:

   • Prepare the second batch of resin but reduce the catalyst slightly (three drops per ounce) to account for heat generated by the first layer.

   • Pour the resin to the desired height and allow it to gel again.

3. Mixing the Third Layer:

   • Use two to three drops per ounce for the third batch.

   • Apply the resin and let it cure fully.

Ensuring a Proper Cure

1. Testing for Full Cure:

   • Do not touch the surface with fingers—this may leave permanent marks.

   • Instead, use a stir stick in the corner to check if it’s fully cured.

2. Addressing Surface Imperfections:

   • Resin does not cure to a perfectly level surface.

   • Pouring thin layers helps minimize shrinkage and ripples.

   • Achieving a tack-free final surface requires careful temperature control.

Methods for Achieving a Smooth Finish

1. Maintaining Warmth During Curing:

   • Keep the tabletop in a warm area—options include:

     • Placing it inside a car parked in the sun (beware of polyester odor and upholstery risks).

     • Using a black cardboard box in direct sunlight.

   • This process may take several days for a full cure.

2. Using the Mylar Method:

   • Mix a fourth batch of resin and catalyst.

   • Pour the resin, ensuring an even distribution.

   • Lay a 5-mil or thicker Mylar sheet over the wet resin, avoiding trapped bubbles.

   • Once cured, remove the Mylar to reveal a glass-smooth surface.

3. Alternative Method: Resin Craft Spray:

   • If content with a slightly wavy surface, apply resin craft spray to create a clear, protective lacquer finish.

Final Touches

1. Removing Protective Strips:

   • Once the tabletop is fully cured, remove the polyethylene strips to reveal the sides.

2. Edge Finishing:

   • Use a roundover router bit to smooth edges.

   • Buff the edges for a glossy finish.

3. Enjoy Your Custom Table:

   • Decide how to finish the wooden edges to your preference.

   • Your tabletop is now complete and ready for use!