How to make epoxy coasters

Annette DiOrio
  • Updated

Even if you’ve never used epoxy before, you’ll find it easy to follow these simple steps to create your own unique coasters that are sure to be conversation pieces!

What You’ll Need:

STEP 1 – GET EVERYTHING READY

  • Lay out your molds and materials.
  • Be sure your work surface is level.
  

STEP 2 – STAY SAFE!

  • If your work area isn’t well ventilated, wear a half-face respirator with vapor cartridges.
  • Safety glasses and gloves protect your eyes and hands.

STEP 3 – MIX RESIN & HARDENER

  • Measure 2 parts resin to 1 part hardener, by volume.
  • Use the included pumps, or pour to dispense.
  • Stir, stir, and stir some more to mix both components completely.

STEP 4 – POUR

  • Pour the mixed epoxy into the coaster molds.
  • Slow and steady pouring reduces air bubbles.
  • If you want, now’s the time to embed any objects, such as small crystals or pieces of sea glass.

STEP 5 – ADD PIGMENTS

  • Be creative using the alcohol ink and powder pigments to add color.
  • Remember, a little pigment goes a long way!

STEP 6 – POP BUBBLES

  • To pop bubbles, wave a heat gun back and forth above the surface.
  • The heat helps bring bubbles to the surface for quick removal.

STEP 7 – REMOVE YOUR COASTER

  • Wait 24 hours for the epoxy to harden.
  • Remove the coaster by peeling back the mold, and you’re done!
Each coaster has a glossy finish—no polishing needed!

 

Get Inspired!

There are so many techniques you can use to personalize these coasters, all that’s required is a little imagination, a willingness to have fun, and a desire try something new! Just remember, as you’re creating your coasters, the top of the coaster is at the bottom of the mold. This means you’ll need to add features upside down to ensure your design is right-side-up when you remove your coaster from the mold! Here are a few ideas to get you started.

 Casting Items in Epoxy

Embed treasured items or small objects in mixed epoxy to make them appear as if they’re floating or are preserved in a glass-like coaster. If you’re embedding items in the epoxy, seal them first by dipping them in epoxy or by leaving a thin layer on the bottom of the coaster. For this example, we used small pieces of colored sea glass.

Creating Sparkly Bursts of Color

Add intense color and sparkle to your coasters with the included mica powder pigments. Divide mixed epoxy into smaller cups and add a little pigment at a time until the desired color is achieved. Manipulate the design using a wooden stick or use air from the heat gun to move the colors around.

Creating Droplet Effects and Translucent Colors

Use the included alcohol inks to get a droplet effect or a translucent colored look. To create the droplet effect, start by dropping the colors you want into the epoxy. Then add white ink drops on top (the white ink is heavier and sinks the other colors). For a translucent effect, add alcohol ink, drop by drop, until you get the look you want.

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