How to Make a River Table Step by Step

Epoxy resin is a popular material for creating river tables, as it creates a clear, glossy finish and can be used to encapsulate and preserve items such as stones, shells, and other natural elements. However, not all epoxy resins are created equal, and it’s important to choose the right one for your project.

First and foremost, you’ll want to choose a high-quality epoxy resin. This means looking for a product that is UV resistant, which will prevent discoloration and yellowing over time. It should also be heat resistant, as epoxy resin can become brittle and crack if exposed to high temperatures. Additionally, it should be food safe, as many people use their river tables as dining tables.

Another important consideration is the viscosity of the epoxy resin. A low viscosity epoxy resin will be thinner and more fluid, which can make it easier to pour and spread evenly. However, it can also create more bubbles and can be more difficult to work with. A high viscosity epoxy resin, on the other hand, will be thicker and more viscous, which can make it more difficult to pour and spread evenly, but it will be less prone to bubbles.

How to Make a River Table Step by Step

Materials Used for River Tables:

• Wood
• Epoxy resin (such as Deep Pour Epoxy)
• Tools (such as saw, sandpaper, clamps, putty knife, etc.)
• Optional: pigments, and additives
• Tape (painter’s tape is often used to create straight lines or to keep the epoxy resin from spilling over the edges of the table)
• Finish (such as varnish or wax)

What Kind of Wood to Use:

• Hardwoods such as oak, maple, walnut, or cherry are commonly used for river tables.
• Choose a wood that complements the look you want for your table, and that is dense and durable enough to withstand daily use.

What Kind of Epoxy to Use:

• For a deep pour epoxy, CHILL ICE 1 and CHILL ICE 2 are two popular formulations.
• CHILL DEEP POUR is another option that is specifically formulated for creating deep, flowy effects in resin art and river tables.
• Look for an epoxy resin that has a slow cure time, so that you have time to work with it and make any necessary adjustments.
• Clear epoxy resin is the most commonly used for river tables, as it allows the wood grain to show through.
• Consider using a UV-resistant epoxy resin, as this will help to protect the table from yellowing over time.

What Material is Used for the Epoxy Table:

• The main material used for the epoxy table is the epoxy resin.
• The wood used for the table provides the structure and support for the resin, but it is the resin that creates the unique, flowing appearance of the table.

Cost:

• The cost of making a resin table will vary depending on the materials used and the size of the table.
• On average, you can expect to spend around $200-$500 or more, depending on the specific materials and tools you need.

Beginner Resin:

• If you are new to working with epoxy resin, it is important to start with a beginner-friendly kit.
• A beginner kit will typically include all of the materials and tools you need to get started, as well as detailed instructions on how to use them.

How Many Gallons of Epoxy:

• The amount of epoxy you will need will depend on the size of your table and the thickness of the resin you are using.
• As a rough estimate, you may need 1-2 gallons of epoxy for a small to medium-sized table.
• Be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific product you are using.

Best Finish for a River Table:

• A clear varnish or wax is a popular finish for river tables.
• These finishes will protect the wood and epoxy, and give the table a polished look.
• You may also consider using a water-resistant finish, to help protect the table from moisture.

Note: When working with epoxy resin, it is important to follow all safety precautions, including wearing gloves and protective eyewear. Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Ultimately, the best epoxy resin for your river table project will depend on your specific needs and preferences. A few popular options include:

• CHILL ICE 1™ – POURS BETWEEN 1/2 UP TO 1.5″ INCH UP TO 60 LITERS MASS. This is a high-quality, food-safe, UV-resistant epoxy resin that is popular among artists and crafters. It has a low viscosity, making it easy to work with, and it creates a glossy, clear finish. Ideal for small to medium size projects such as coffee tables or smaller river tables.

• CHILL ICE 2™ – POURS BETWEEN 1.5 UP TO 2″  UP TO 60 LITERS MASS. This epoxy resin is also food-safe and UV-resistant, and it has a water-like viscosity, making it less prone to bubbles. It’s a popular choice among woodworkers and furniture builders for 2″ thick river tables.

• CHILL DEEP POUR™ – POURS BETWEEN 2″ UP TO 2.5″ INCH UP TO 100 LITERS MASS. This epoxy resin is also food-safe, UV-resistant and has a low viscosity, making it easy to work with. It’s a great option if you’re looking for deep pour. This unique system allows you to pour bigger river tables up to 2.5″ thick in a single pour without the need to use fans.

Ultimately, it is important to research and compare different products and read customer reviews before making a final decision. It is also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions when using epoxy resin.

When selecting an epoxy system for river tables, there are several factors to consider:

1. Quality: Look for a high-quality epoxy system that is UV resistant, heat resistant, and food safe. This will ensure that your river table will not discolor, yellow or crack over time, and it will be safe to use as a dining table.
2. Viscosity: Consider the viscosity of the epoxy system. Low viscosity epoxy systems are thinner and more fluid, making them easier to pour and spread evenly, but they can create more bubbles. High viscosity epoxy systems are thicker and more viscous, making them more difficult to pour and spread evenly, but they are less prone to bubbles.
3. Hardness: Consider the hardness of the epoxy system. A harder epoxy will be more durable and less prone to scratches and dents, but it may be more difficult to work with.
4. Color: Consider the color of the epoxy system. Clear epoxy systems are popular, but you can also choose from a wide range of colors and tints.
5. Clarity: Consider the clarity of the epoxy system. Clear epoxy systems will provide a glossy and crystal-clear finish, but it can also create a cloudy finish if not used properly.
6. Pot life and curing time: Consider the pot life and curing time of the epoxy system. Some epoxy systems have a short pot life and curing time, which means that you need to work quickly and efficiently. Others have a longer pot life and curing time, which allows for more flexibility and time to work on the project.
7. Cost: Consider the cost of the epoxy system. High-quality epoxy systems can be expensive, but it’s important to remember that you get what you pay for.
8. Safety: Be sure to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions when using epoxy systems. Epoxy systems can be hazardous if not handled properly, so be sure to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your workspace.

Ultimately, the best epoxy system for your river table project will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It is important to research and compare different products and read customer reviews before making a final decision.

It is important to select the appropriate CHILL EPOXY™ product for your river table flow application, taking into account the exothermic effect during the reaction of parts A and B. The exothermic effect will cause the release of heat and change the liquid state to a solid state. The size of the mass will affect the strength of the exothermic effect. Therefore, it is recommended to choose a CHILL EPOXY™ product that is formulated for the specific mass and thickness you require. It is also important to validate your measurement techniques of parts A and B, as well as the homogeneity of the mixture and the achievement of total polymerization. It is crucial to never process the product without proper validation, as this may result in significant losses. POLYMÈRES TECHNOLOGIES has formulated casting systems suitable for the casting of different masses and thicknesses.

CHILL ICE 1™ – POURS BETWEEN 1/2 UP TO 1.5″ INCH UP TO 60 LITERS MASS

 

 

 

CHILL ICE 2™ – POURS BETWEEN 1.5 UP TO 2″  UP TO 60 LITERS MASS

 

 

CHILL DEEP POUR™ – POURS BETWEEN 2″ UP TO 2.5″ INCH UP TO 100 LITERS MASS

When poured in thickness and mass less than recommended, the polymerization process will be slow down considerably, due to a reduced exothermic effect. If poured in thickness and mass higher than recommended, phenomena of yellowing, accentuated shrinkage, and cracks will appear, and this, due to an amplified exothermic effect.

IT IS THEREFORE IMPORTANT TO CHOOSE THE APPROPRIATE SYSTEM FOR A SPECIFIC APPLICATION. WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND PERFORMING VALIDATION TESTS BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH YOUR PROJECT. IT IS IMPERATIVE TO VALIDATE YOUR MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES OF PARTS A AND B, OF THE HOMOGENEOUS MIXTURE OF THE LATEST AS WELL AS THE ACHIEVEMENT OF TOTAL POLYMERIZATION.

NEVER PROCESS THE PRODUCT (S) WITHOUT PRIOR VALIDATION OF YOUR WORKING TECHNIQUES. IF YOU DO NOT VALIDATE THESE MATTERS, THIS MAY RESULT IN HIGH LOSSES.

In summary, epoxy resin is a popular material for making river tables due to its clear and glossy finish. It’s important to choose the right epoxy system that is high-quality, UV resistant, heat resistant, food safe, and with the right viscosity, hardness, color, clarity, pot life, curing time, cost, and safety. Before starting a project, it’s recommended to validate your measurement techniques and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions. Contact [email protected] or visit www.chillepoxy.com for more information on epoxy systems and to get expert help in choosing the right one for your project.