How to Build a Live Edge Coffee Table With Resin: Step-by-Step Guide

There's something magical about live edge wood. It's raw and unique. It's undeniably beautiful. A live edge coffee table is more than just furniture, it's a statement. You know the kind - when you walk into a space and you see something so clearly handmade it just draws attention from the rest of the room. It's a statement piece, an artistic expression that combines refined craftsmanship with functionality. And we can help you create that.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the entire process of making a live edge coffee table with resin featuring one of our favorite makers - Eli Tomalka. Whether you're a seasoned woodworker or a resin enthusiast looking to branch out, this project will help you get out of your comfort zone. 

Materials You'll Need

Before diving into the process, let's go over the essentials. Here's a list of materials and tools you'll need for your live edge coffee table build:

Wood and Resin Materials:

• Live edge wood slab (preferably a hardwood like walnut or oak)
• Promise Deep Pour Epoxy 
• Resin pigment or dye (brand and type are optional depending on your design). We used this one by EcoPoxy
• Mold or form (MDF sheets work well for making your mold)
• Mold release agent or tape
• Polyx Oil for wood furniture
• Table legs
• Threaded inserts for wood

Tools & Safety Gear:

• Orbital sander with various grits (60, 120, 220)
• Sanding sealer
• Heat gun or torch (to remove bubbles from resin)
• Mixing containers, sticks, and measuring cups
• Personal protective equipment (gloves, respirator for vapors, safety glasses)

Preparing Your Live Edge Slab & Mold

The first step in making your live edge coffee table with resin is preparing the wood slab. The live edge is the most important part of this project since it brings the warmth and character of a unique piece of wood into your home. There are no two pieces of live edge that are the same. However, this also means the surface may be uneven or need some refinement before pouring the resin. 

1. Cleaning the Wood & Removing Bark

Begin by removing any dirt, debris, or bark from the live edge slab. A wire brush works well for this, and you can also use a chisel for more stubborn bark. It's important to remove the bark, ensuring the resin will bond well to the wood, creating a seamless, strong structure. 

2. Sanding & Sealing

In some cases you'll need to flatten your slab if it's not already. You can use a planer to ensure the top and bottom surfaces are even. Afterwards, you'll also want to make sure your wood is sealed properly. Sealing is crucial because live edge wood tends to have natural pores that can release air, creating bubbles in your resin pour. 

3. Design the Mold

Once your wood is prepped, it's time to build a mold for the resin pour. A mold helps you control the resin's shape and keeps everything in place while it cures. Your mold will be based on the dimensions of your live edge coffee table slab. Cut the MDF sheets to form the base and sides of the mold. Make sure the mold is slightly larger than your wood slab to allow room for the resin to flow. 

4. Seal the Mold

To prevent resin from sticking to the mold, apply a mold release to the top of the MDF board where the slab will be sitting. This step is essential for an easy demold once the resin has cured. Since this is a partial epoxy pour, tape the outside edges of any cutouts in your slab that you plan to fill with epoxy. This will prevent epoxy from leaking onto your workshop floor.

Set your prepared slab onto the MDF and seal it along the edges using caulk. Take your finger and spread it around the perimeter ensuring your slab is sealed against the MDF board.

Pro Tip: To prevent movement during the epoxy pour, place a few weights or cinder blocks on top of the slab while pouring. 

Mixing and Pouring the Resin

This is where the magic happens! To create your perfect live edge coffee table, it's important to take your time during this phase to ensure the perfect results. When working with Deep Pour Epoxy you have a long work time so don't be afraid to slow down and really take your time. You only get one pour!

5. Mixing the Resin

Carefully measure and mix your resin according to the manufacturer's instructions. Mix slowly and thoroughly to avoid introducing bubbles. This is the point when you'll want to add your pigment if you are using any. Whether you go for a translucent look, a bold color, or subtle tint, make sure it complements the natural beauty of the wood. 

Deep Pour Epoxy is a 2:1 mixing ratio by volume. You can find all the mixing instructions for Deep Pour here. 

6. Pouring the Resin

Slowly pour the resin into the cavities of your slab. Ensure the resin fills any gaps or cracks in the wood and forms a level surface. If you're creating a "river" effect between two live edge slabs, pour the resin down the middle channel starting at one end and working your way to the other. 

7. Removing Air Bubbles

Once the resin is poured, you'll likely notice air bubbles rising to the surface. Use the heat gun or torch to pop these bubbles. Be cautious not to overheat the resin as it can affect the curing process. To get that crystal-clear finish, removing air bubbles is critical. If left unchecked, bubbles can mar the smooth surface of your live edge coffee table. 

Demolding, Sanding, and Finishing Touches

After pouring the resin, allow it to cure for about 72 hours. Deep Pour Epoxy takes a little longer than surface coating epoxies so be sure to wait so you don't accidentally damage your project.

8. Demolding

Once the resin has cured completely, remove the wood and resin slab from the mold. You may need to pry it loose gently, especially if there's any residue sticking to the edges. This is why using a mold release is extremely important before sealing your mold!

9. Sanding the Resin Surface

After demolding, the surface will absolutely need further sanding to achieve a flawless finish. Start with a coarse grit and work your way up to something finer. Eli started by running his slab through a drum sander before using the orbital sander to give it that extra smooth feel. We recommend starting at 60 and working your way up. Once you're done sanding, be sure to clean off your slab with a spritz of isopropyl alcohol and a good wipe down. 

10. Attaching the Legs

Finally, attach your chosen legs or base to the underside of the table. Metal legs are a really popular choice for those who want to add a modern touch to their rustic live edge table. Ensure the legs are evenly spaced and securely fastened for stability. 

11. Applying a Finish to the Wood

For the wood, apply a protective finish like Polyx Oil to all wooden areas on your table. This not only brings out the richness of the wood grain, but protects it from daily wear and tear. 

Tips and Tricks for Building Your Live Edge Coffee Table

Choosing the Right Wood: Hardwood species like walnut, oak, and maple work well because they are sturdy and have beautiful grain patterns that pair nicely with resin.

Experimenting with Pigments: Don't be afraid to play around with different pigments or metallic powders to create unique effects. Using alcohol inks will give you a transparent look, whereas color-shifting mica powders will give you a vibrant, sparkling color pop. Using metallic powders can add depth and a sense of movement to your piece.

Using the Right Resin: For a project like this, Deep Pour Epoxy is ideal because it allows for thicker pours on larger projects without the risk of overheating.

Watch it on YouTube

Conclusion

Creating a live edge coffee table with resin is a satisfying and creative project that showcases the beauty of natural wood while allowing for artistic expression with resin. Whether you're keeping the resin clear or adding a pop of color, this DIY piece will undoubtedly become the centerpiece of any room. 

With the steps outlined here, you'll be well on your way to crafting your own masterpiece. Gather your materials, take your time, and enjoy the process of building a live edge coffee table with resin that reflects your own unique style and aesthetic!