15+ Best Epoxy Resin for Wood and Buying Guide

  • Resin Art 101
  • Posted by: amy-golden
  • Nov 4, 2023

Epoxy resin is frequently used as an important material to create furniture, 3D paintings, jewelry accessories, and other handmade products because it has high adhesion and can withstand water or UV radiation. The best epoxy resins for wood listed below are ideal if you're looking for an epoxy resin to create durable and quality wood products.

Epoxy Resin Working Time Curing Time Mix Ratio Safety Price
ProMarine Self-Leveling Epoxy Resin

Promarine self-leveling epoxy resin

Within 12 mins below 60° and within 30 mins above 60° for a more rigid resin Up to 72 hours 1:1 FDA food-grade safe $67.99 - $188.02
TotalBoat Table Top Clear Epoxy Resin

Totalboat table top clear epoxy resin

Within 20 mins below 70° and 4 hours above 70° for a recoat Up to 24 hours 1:1 USDA-approved list $117.47
FGCI Deep Pour Clear Casting Resin

Fgci deep pour clear casting resin

Within 30 mins below 77° Up to 24 hours 2:1 FDA standards $99.99 - $278.99
Stone Coat Epoxy Resin

Stone coat epoxy resin

 N/A 24 hours 2:1 Food safe $69.99 - $474.99
Beast Bond UV Resistant Epoxy Resin

Beast bond uv resistant epoxy resin

Within 40 mins below 70° Up to 48 hours

 

1:1 ASTM D-4236  
FGCI Superclear Premium Epoxy Resin

Fgci superclear premium epoxy resin

Within 25 mins below 72° Up to 24 hours 1:1 FDA standards $30.39 - $95.99
Janchun Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin Kit

Janchun crystal clear epoxy resin kit

Within 35 mins below 62° Up to 24 hours 1:1 FDA-grade food safe $14.75 - $26.99
Naked Fusion Epoxy Resin Art

Naked fusion epoxy resin art

Within 45 mins below 75° Up to 72 hours 1:1 Food safe $110 - $199.99
Rust-Oleum 261845 EpoxyShield Garage Floor

Rust-oleum 261845 epoxyshield garage floor

N/A 72 hours N/A N/A  $179.99
Magic Resin Deep Pour Epoxy Resin

Magic resin deep pour epoxy resin

Up to 6 hours Up to 72 hours 2:1 Food safe $89.95 - $189.95
ArtResin VOC & BPA-Free Epoxy Resin

Artresin voc & bpa-free epoxy resin

Within 60 mins below 77° Up to 72 hours 1:1 Free of BPA & VOCs $119 - $189
DR CRAFTY Clear Epoxy Resin

Dr crafty clear epoxy resin

Around 25° Up to 24 hours 1:1 Food safe $69.99 - $139.95
HXDZFX Epoxy Resin Kit

Hxdzfx epoxy resin kit

40 mins 12 - 24 hours 1:1 Food safe  
RTG Bar & Table Top Epoxy

Rtg bar & table top epoxy

 N/ Up to 24 hours 1:1 Food safe $52.99 - $68.99
SRC Crystal Clear Resin

Src crystal clear resin

45 minutes 24 hours 1:1 FDA food safe $15.99 - $99.99
Countertop Epoxy Resin

Countertop epoxy resin

 N/A 36 hours   Food safe $55.99 - $214.99

*Prices are updated in October 2023

1. ProMarine Self-Leveling Epoxy Resin

Promarine self-leveling epoxy resin
Promarine self-leveling epoxy resin
  • Brand: Pro Marine Supplies
  • Uses: Wood projects and DIY products
  • Compatible Material: Wood, Plastic
  • Special features: Self-leveling, High gloss, UV resistance, Water resistance, High durability

The ProMarine Self-Leveling Epoxy Resin is highly durable and extremely resistant to water and UV rays, making it suitable for covering any surface. Besides, its self-leveling properties also eliminate bubbles and provide a perfect paint surface.

With its crystal clear finish and high gloss, this epoxy resin for wood is the ideal choice for tabletop surfaces such as bar table tops, river tables, works of art or DIY products such as decorations, jewelry, etc.

A gorgeous, glossy surface is produced by promarine self-leveling epoxy resin (source: walmart)
A gorgeous, glossy surface is produced by promarine self-leveling epoxy resin (source: walmart)
Pros Cons
  • Simple to use
  • Excellent coverage spanning up to 48 square feet
  • Increase product’s quality
  • Long curing time, up to 72 hours
  • More difficult to cure
  • Unsuitable for outdoor projects, over urethane, or oil-based stains

To mix and use ProMarine Self-Leveling Epoxy Resin, you can refer to the following video.

2. TotalBoat Table Top Clear Epoxy Resin

Totalboat table top clear epoxy resin
Totalboat table top clear epoxy resin
  • Brand: TotalBoat
  • Uses: Craft products, table tops, bar tops, etc
  • Compatible Material: Metal
  • Special features: Self-leveling, Scratch-resistant, Waterproof, Anti-yellowing

TotalBoat Table Top Clear Epoxy Resin features self-leveling properties to help eliminate air bubbles when applied. Besides, it is extremely resistant to water, yellowing, blushes, bubbles, and scratching, making the products more durable and have a longer lifespan.

This epoxy resin for table tops also has a very low odor, doesn't emit harsh fumes on application, and doesn't contain BPA or VOCs so you can feel secure when using it. Also, it provides a beautiful and shiny finish which is ideal for indoor usage such as furniture, decorations, jewelry, or ceramics.

A polished surface made from totalboat table top clear epoxy resin (source: walmart)
A polished surface made from totalboat table top clear epoxy resin (source: walmart)
Pros Cons
  • Tolerate high temperatures
  • Fast curing time of up to 24 hours
  • Meet USDA food safety list standards
  • Ideal for woodworking projects with heavy use
  • Unsuitable for wood joinery projects
  • Difficult to apply
  • Need to be completely stirred

You can watch the detailed usage instruction video below to be able to mix the appropriate ratio.

3. FGCI Deep Pour Clear Casting Resin

Fgci deep pour clear casting resin
Fgci deep pour clear casting resin
  • Brand: FGCI
  • Uses: Deep pour projects
  • Compatible Material: Wood
  • Special features: Self-leveling, Heat resistant, Anti-yellowing, UV protection, FDA guidelines compliant

FGCI Deep Pour Clear Casting Resin is a well-known brand that can produce crystal clear finishes with extremely good resistance to yellowing and UV rays. In particular, it can be poured from 2 to 4 inches deep, suitable for use in river table projects or deep plastic molding projects.

This is the best epoxy resin for wood and all epoxy table ideas. You can even use it to DIY other items such as cutting boards, skateboards, night lights, trays, 3D paintings, etc.

The deep pouring design of this epoxy resin for wood will be suitable for large-sized table tops (source: amazon)
The deep pouring design of this epoxy resin for wood will be suitable for large-sized table tops (source: amazon)
Pros Cons
  • Entirely bubble-free
  • Durable and heat-resistant
  • Easy to mix with dyes, pigments, and colors
  • Safe to use
  • Deep spills need at least 36 hours to dry out
  • Complicated to mix

FGCI Deep Pour Clear Casting Resin is the best choice for large-sized projects. If you don't know how to mix epoxy resin for wood table, check out this video below right away.

4. Stone Coat Epoxy Resin

Stone coat epoxy resin
Stone coat epoxy resin
  • Brand: Stone Coat Countertops
  • Uses: Woodworking, bar tops, counters, kitchens, bathrooms
  • Compatible Material: Wood, Stone
  • Special features: Self-leveling, UV resistant, Heat resistant, High gloss

Stone Coat Epoxy Resin has surface coverage of up to 40 square feet for both the Color Flood Coat and Clear Flood Coat. This epoxy countertop kit is UV resistant, heat resistant, and designed to create the look of expensive granite or marble right over your countertops without spending too much money.

Furthermore, Stone Coat Epoxy Resin is often recommended to cover the project's surface for extra durability. You can produce whatever look suits your area by matching colors, adding metallic powder, or epoxy dyes; or simply recreating a classic appearance you adore such as Carrara marble, black marble, or white quartz.

Using stone coat epoxy resin will increase the durability and aesthetics of your home's interior (source: stone coat countertop)
Using stone coat epoxy resin will increase the durability and aesthetics of your home's interior (source: stone coat countertop)
Pros Cons
  • Mix with other ingredients easily
  • Cover over 40 square feet
  • Scratch resistant
  • Maximum pour depth is 1/8"
  • Use casting resin to pour thick and deep layers

5. Beast Bond UV Resistant Epoxy Resin

Beast bond uv resistant epoxy resin
Beast bond uv resistant epoxy resin
  • Brand: Beast Bond
  • Uses: Craft products
  • Compatible Material: Wood
  • Special features: Moisture resistance, Anti-scratch, High gloss, Non-toxic, Non-flammable

For creative projects, Beast Bond UV Resistant Epoxy Resin is a great choice since it provides a long-lasting, rock-hard, and crystal-clear finish. This is the best epoxy resin for wood projects because it has a crystal clear surface that resists scratches, moisture, yellowing, and other impacts caused by time.

The uv-resistant epoxy resin beast bond will enhance the aesthetics of wooden utensils (source: amazon)
The uv-resistant epoxy resin beast bond will enhance the aesthetics of wooden utensils (source: amazon)
Pros Cons
  • Perfect for outdoor projects
  • Dries & cures in 24 to 48 hours
  • Can be applied on various surfaces
  • High price
  • Not suitable for quick turnaround DIY projects

You can refer to the video below for instructions on how to mix and pour Beast Bond UV Resistant Epoxy Resin for usage on large countertops.

6. FGCI Superclear Premium Epoxy Resin

Fgci superclear premium epoxy resin
Fgci superclear premium epoxy resin
  • Brand: Superclear
  • Uses: Bar tops, table tops, countertops, silicone molds, craft products
  • Compatible Material: Wood
  • Special features: Anti-yellowing, Self-leveling, Clear and glossy finish

With its exceptional self-leveling, water, and scratch resistance, FGCI Superclear Premium Epoxy Resin can produce a durable and glossy finish. This epoxy can be used to create trays, stove tops, or food containers because it doesn't contain VOC or BPA and is food-safe.

This epoxy resin for wood may quickly produce a crystal clear finish due to its quick working and curing times. It is frequently used for coating and step-casting tasks including anything from river tables, coffee tables, and side tables to casting for jewelry and artwork.

Fgci superclear premium epoxy resin is the recommended option for large wood or outdoor furniture projects (source: amazon)
Fgci superclear premium epoxy resin is the recommended option for large wood or outdoor furniture projects (source: amazon)
Pros Cons
  • Appropriate for dried stains
  • Excellent for outdoor furniture wood projects
  • Quicker curing time
  • Not match with small projects
  • An uneven finish with air bubbles can appear if it’s not stirred properly

You can watch the comprehensive video instructions below to learn how to use FGCI Superclear Premium Epoxy Resin correctly to avoid bubbles and high gloss.

7. Janchun Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin Kit

Janchun crystal clear epoxy resin kit
Janchun crystal clear epoxy resin kit
  • Brand: Janchun
  • Uses: Wood products, silicone molds
  • Compatible Material: Wood, Metal
  • Special features: Self-leveling, Self-degassing, High-gloss, Low odor, Anti-yellowing, UV resistant

Janchun Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin Kit has a low odor, is free of BPA and VOCs, and doesn't produce obnoxious fumes so your health is not affected during work. This epoxy resin kit also has the ability to self-level, resist UV rays, and prevent yellowing, making the finish layer more durable and sturdy.

Because of its high level of safety, you can use it to cover glassware or DIY other cooking utensils in addition to coating wooden surfaces.

You can create works of art like this with the janchun crystal clear epoxy resin kit (source: amazon)
You can create works of art like this with the janchun crystal clear epoxy resin kit (source: amazon)
Pros Cons
  • Used for outdoor or indoor projects
  • Mix easily within 5-6 minutes
  • Curing time is fast
  • Have a little curve
  • The texture is inconsistent
  • Difficult to apply

8. Naked Fusion Epoxy Resin Art

Naked fusion epoxy resin art
Naked fusion epoxy resin art
  • Brand: Naked Fusion
  • Uses: Coating, silicone molds, river table, countertops, tabletop, woodworking, craft items, etc
  • Compatible Material: Wood, Canvas, Flowers, Crystals, Rocks, Glass, Concrete
  • Special features: Waterproof, Heat resistant, Odorless, Scratch resistant, No VOCs

Naked Fusion Epoxy Resin Art can provide a high-gloss and transparent diamond-like coating to help your products become more beautiful and sophisticated. Not only is it water resistant and can withstand high temperatures up to 145°, but this epoxy resin also doesn’t contain odor and toxic substances, making it suitable for covering kitchen surfaces, making coasters, or food containers.

This best nontoxic epoxy resin is also used for a variety of coating, casting, and painting applications, such as jewelry, trays, pour paintings, silicone molds, tabletops, and countertops.

Beautiful tiny items to substantial wood projects can be simply created with naked fusion epoxy resin art (source: naked fusion resin)
Beautiful tiny items to substantial wood projects can be simply created with naked fusion epoxy resin art (source: naked fusion resin)
Pros Cons
  • Can be polished and sanded to a high gloss finish
  • Self-leveling properties
  • Resists yellowing or scratches
  • Safe to work
  • Strong smell
  • The application is challenging because of its thickness

If you want to learn more about how to make coasters in detail with Naked Fusion Epoxy Resin Art as well as how to mix different colors, you can check out this video below.

9. Rust-Oleum 261845 EpoxyShield Garage Floor

Rust-oleum 261845 epoxyshield garage floor
Rust-oleum 261845 epoxyshield garage floor
  • Brand: Rust-Oleum
  • Uses: Interior, garage floors, basements
  • Compatible Material: Concrete
  • Special features: High-Gloss, Low odor, Anti-gasoline, Heat resistant, UV resistant 

If you are looking for an epoxy resin for floors, Rust-Oleum 261845 EpoxyShield Garage Floor is the top choice. This product can cover a surface area of up to 500 square feet and is ideal for garages as it is resistant to UV rays, heat, and chemicals such as gasoline or motor oil.

The durable and low-odor finish can keep you safe while working and using. In addition to the garage floor, you can use this epoxy resin floor kit for basements, factories, and other spaces with concrete floors without spending too much money.

Your garage space will look better if you use this epoxy resin floor kit (source: amazon)
Your garage space will look better if you use this epoxy resin floor kit (source: amazon)
Pros Cons
  • Resistant to chemicals, fuel, and heat
  • High coverage
  • Affordable cost
  • Many steps to prepare
  • Use for indoor projects only

You can use this video as a guide if you DIY your garage floor with Rust-Oleum 261845 EpoxyShield Garage Floor.

10. Magic Resin Deep Pour Epoxy Resin

Magic resin deep pour epoxy resin
Magic resin deep pour epoxy resin
  • Brand: Magic Resin
  • Uses: Deep pour projects
  • Compatible Material: Wood, Jewelry
  • Special features: Low VOC, Slight odor, Waterproof, Scratch-resistant, UV resistant, Heat resistant

Magic Resin Deep Pour Epoxy Resin is the best epoxy resin for river table projects or plastic molding designs since it can be poured up to 4 inches deep. Thanks to properties such as water resistance, scratch resistance, and no blushing under high humidity conditions, this is an ideal product for outdoor projects.

Moreover, this epoxy resin for wood has a low VOC level and a mild odor, making it acceptable to use on surfaces that come into contact with food, like cutting boards, serving trays, and stovetops.

Magic resin deep pour epoxy resin may be suitable for outdoor projects due to its outstanding uv resistance (source: magic resin)
Magic resin deep pour epoxy resin may be suitable for outdoor projects due to its outstanding uv resistance (source: magic resin)
Pros Cons
  • Pour up to 4 inches deep
  • Resistant to water and UV rays
  • Ideal for mold casting or river table projects
  • Long setup time
  • Extended curing time can last from 4 - 7 days

This brand is also careful when updating detailed instructional videos for using Magic Resin Deep Pour Epoxy Resin. Look no further, you can watch the video right here!

11. ArtResin VOC & BPA-Free Epoxy Resin

Artresin voc & bpa-free epoxy resin
Artresin voc & bpa-free epoxy resin
  • Brand: ArtResin
  • Uses: Jewelry, woodworking, DIY projects
  • Compatible Material: Wood
  • Special features: Crystal-clear gloss, UV resistant, BPA-free, Non-toxic, Non-flammable, Self-leveling

ArtResin VOC & BPA-Free Epoxy Resin is a flexible epoxy resin that works well on wood, canvas, or other materials. One gallon covers 32 square feet of surface area and produces a smooth, bubble-free finish. 

This epoxy resin does not contain VOC, BPA, or create toxic substances so you can rest assured when using it. Moreover, its food-safe and non-flammable certification makes it a top choice for indoor crafts or DIY projects.

Artresin voc & bpa-free epoxy resin can be used to create works of arts like this (source: amazon)
Artresin voc & bpa-free epoxy resin can be used to create works of arts like this (source: amazon)
Pros Cons
  • Does not contain VOCs, BPA, or toxic substances
  • Anti-UV and anti-yellowing
  • Self-leveling ability
  • Used in a well-ventilated environment.
  • Highly priced

Through this video, you can learn exactly how to utilize ArtResin VOC & BPA-Free Epoxy Resin.

12. DR CRAFTY Clear Epoxy Resin

Dr crafty clear epoxy resin
Dr crafty clear epoxy resin
  • Brand: DR. CRAFTY
  • Uses: DIY or small projects
  • Compatible Material: Wood, Plastic
  • Special features: Non-toxic, Moisture Resistant, High gloss, Fast freezing time

Manufactured by the reputable company DR. CRAFTY, this epoxy resin kit is well-known for its outstanding clarity and versatility. When mixed in a 1:1 ratio, DR CRAFTY Clear Epoxy Resin will create a stunning finish that can improve the aesthetics of your product. It is also highly appreciated for its ability to resist moisture, limit air bubbles, and be non-toxic.

This versatile resin is extremely easy to use, even for beginners. Before working, you need to sit the resin and the hardener in hot water for about 10 minutes to warm up. Once removed from the hot water, let it rest until the liquid reaches room temperature for the best results.

The best epoxy resin for diy projects is dr crafty clear epoxy resin, which may be used to create trays, coasters, or artwork (source: amazon)
The best epoxy resin for diy projects is dr crafty clear epoxy resin, which may be used to create trays, coasters, or artwork (source: amazon)
Pros Cons
  • Full set of tools
  • The mixture hardens quickly
  • Moisture resistant
  • Long setup time
  • Hard to cure if it not mixed properly

DR CRAFTY Clear Epoxy Resin works well with stone and metal in addition to wood, making it ideal for a wide range of DIY projects, such as trays, nightlights, pieces of jewelry, 3D artwork, etc. You also can refer to other customers' opinions, typically the video below.

13. HXDZFX Epoxy Resin Kit

Hxdzfx epoxy resin kit
Hxdzfx epoxy resin kit
  • Brand: HXDZFX
  • Uses: Jewelry, tabletops, coaster, tray, etc
  • Compatible Material: Wood
  • Special features: Non-toxic, Moisture Resistant, High gloss, High durability 

The HXDZFX Epoxy Resin Kit can create a rock-hard finish and a clear consistency. In addition, the ability to resist scratches, fade, and yellow will help your works of art be more delicate, more protected, and long-lasting.

This epoxy resin kit can be easily combined with materials such as alcohol ink, mica, glow-in-the-dark, and epoxy resin dyes to create unique products so it is the perfect choice for DIY projects like casting, jewelry making, river tables, table tops, coasters, and many more.

The hxdzfx epoxy resin kit is very practical and may be used to make a variety of lovely objects (source: amazon)
The hxdzfx epoxy resin kit is very practical and may be used to make a variety of lovely objects (source: amazon)
Pros Cons
  • A full kit includes detailed instructions
  • Working time is only 40 minutes
  • Easy to use
  • Can't handle high temperatures
  • Unsuitable for large surfaces

14. RTG Bar & Table Top Epoxy

Rtg bar & table top epoxy
Rtg bar & table top epoxy
  • Brand: RTG Supply Co.
  • Uses: Kitchen surfaces, Craft items
  • Compatible Material: Wood, Ceramic, Furniture, Metal, Stone
  • Special features: Self-leveling, Waterproof, Anti-yellowing, High durability, Heat resistant

With an exclusive self-leveling formula, RTG Bar & Table Top Epoxy can create an even layer on the surface, making the finish more elegant and aesthetic. In addition, it can withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for covering kitchen surfaces and making trays, coasters, and other items.

This type of epoxy resin for wood can also resist water, yellowing, or other environmental impacts, helping your wooden projects to be well-protected and durable over time.

Rtg bar & table top epoxy can offer a high gloss and good heat resistance when coating the kitchen surface (source: amazon)
Rtg bar & table top epoxy can offer a high gloss and good heat resistance when coating the kitchen surface (source: amazon)
Pros Cons
  • Waterproof, no yellowing
  • Self-leveling formula
  • The finish is crystal clear and durable
  • Not intended for outdoor projects
  • Extremely shiny

15. SRC Crystal Clear Resin

Src crystal clear resin
Src crystal clear resin
  • Brand: Specialty Resin & Chemical
  • Uses: Tabletops, countertops, bartops, DIY items, etc
  • Compatible Material: Wood, Fiberglass
  • Special features: Self-leveling, Odorless, Waterproof, Anti-yellowing, Scratch resistant, UV resistant

SRC Crystal Clear Resin is the best waterproof epoxy resin as it possesses useful properties such as self-leveling, impact resistance, UV protection, and anti-yellowing. The finish is not only highly glossy but also uniform and bubble-free.

Furthermore, not creating unpleasant odors and achieving food safety certifications make it ideal for kitchen tops, bar tops, or other cooking equipment.

Src crystal clear resin is the best waterproof epoxy resin for countertops, kitchen tops, or other surfaces (source: amazon)
Src crystal clear resin is the best waterproof epoxy resin for countertops, kitchen tops, or other surfaces (source: amazon)
Pros Cons
  • Self-leveling and high-gloss
  • Water and yellowing resistance
  • FDA-approved
  • Requires a more rapid application
  • Not the toughest finish

To gain more expertise in producing fantastic masterpieces, watch more videos about SRC Crystal Clear Resin!

16. Countertop Epoxy Resin

Countertop epoxy resin
Countertop epoxy resin
  • Brand: Countertop Epoxy
  • Uses: Table tops, trays, coasters, etc
  • Compatible Material: Wood, Concrete, MDF board, Ceramic, Stone
  • Special features: UV resistant, Crystal clear finish, Heat resistant, High durability, Great coverage, Non-toxic

Countertop Epoxy Resin is a great choice for those looking for a highly durable finish in a short amount of time. This epoxy resin stands out for its good UV protection, excellent coverage, and ability to withstand temperatures as high as 260°.

One of the best things about this product is that it doesn't produce an unpleasant odor and has great adhesion, making it ideal for use on wooden surfaces as well as other materials such as concrete, MDF board, Formica, ceramic, tile, and most stones.

Countertop epoxy resin will be a great choice for your kitchen as it can withstand temperatures up to 260° (source: countertop epoxy)
Countertop epoxy resin will be a great choice for your kitchen as it can withstand temperatures up to 260° (source: countertop epoxy)
Pros Cons
  • UV resistance, non-toxic, odorless
  • Meets FDA standards
  • High-temperature resistance
  • Easily scratched
  • Bubbles are more difficult to remove

Another detailed instructional video from the brand will help you get more useful information to use epoxy resin properly.

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The importance of choosing the Right Epoxy Resin for Wood

Choosing the right epoxy resin for wood will create beautiful products (source: esty)
Choosing the right epoxy resin for wood will create beautiful products (source: esty)

Each type of epoxy resin will have different mixing ratios, viscosity, thickness, and curing time, thus selecting the best epoxy resin for wood is essential since it will provide the following advantages:

Strong Bonding and Durability

High-quality epoxy resin forms a strong and durable bond with wood, ensuring that your projects withstand the test of time. It creates a solid and reliable adhesion, making the wood more resistant to cracking, chipping, or breaking.

Enhanced Protection

The epoxy resin will help products be more durable and avoid environmental impacts (source: hirosarts)
The epoxy resin will help products be more durable and avoid environmental impacts (source: hirosarts)

Epoxy resin acts as a protective barrier against moisture, UV rays, and other environmental factors that can degrade the wood over time. After that, the product will be more durable and last longer.

Improved Aesthetics

Clear epoxy resin can enhance the natural beauty of wood by providing a glossy and smooth finish. Additionally, you can add pigments, alcohol inks, pigments, resin dyes, and other coloring agents to epoxy resin to give the wooden surface a distinctive look.

Versatility and Creativity

Epoxy resin allows for creative expression and versatility in wood projects. It can be used for various applications, such as filling voids, creating river tables, embedding objects, and crafting resin art, adding unique and artistic elements to your work.

Factors to Consider The Best Epoxy Resin for Wood

Choosing the right epoxy resin for wood is important because it can extend the life of wood and keep your creations from becoming damaged by a variety of environmental factors.

The good epoxy resin will make wooden products more durable (source: pinterest)
The good epoxy resin will make wooden products more durable (source: pinterest)

Transparency and Clarity

The transparency of the resin will affect how it enhances the natural beauty of the wood and any embedded elements. Furthermore, choosing the right type of epoxy resin will not only make the product more beautiful and elegant but also increase the product's lifespan.

UV Resistance

UV-resistant resins will protect the wood and the epoxy itself from yellowing, fading, or degrading due to prolonged sun exposure. To prevent fading or deterioration of wood items, you can choose a brand with a UV-protective composition or add colorants (particularly cool colors like blue or purple).

Most of the epoxy resin for wood listed above is UV resistant. You can refer to products such as ProMarine Self-Leveling Epoxy Resin, FGCI Deep Pour Clear Casting Resin, Stone Coat Epoxy Resin, Beast Bond UV Resistant Epoxy Resin, Janchun Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin Kit, Magic Resin Deep Pour Epoxy Resin, etc.

Curing Time

The curing time may depend on the scale of your project (source: hirosart)
The curing time may depend on the scale of your project (source: hirosart)

Epoxy resin curing time varies based on the hardener, environment, and project size. Quality resins typically cure within 24 hours or more.

If you place a high priority on accuracy and meticulousness, you can choose epoxy resin for wood with a longer drying time. Products that meet your requirements include ProMarine Self-Leveling Epoxy Resin, Naked Fusion Epoxy Resin Art, Rust-Oleum 261845 EpoxyShield Garage Floor, Magic Resin Deep Pour Epoxy Resin, ArtResin VOC & BPA-Free Epoxy Resin, etc.

On the contrary, if you need epoxy resins that have a quicker drying and curing period that can be used for simple projects, you can refer to the following products: TotalBoat Table Top Clear Epoxy Resin, FGCI Deep Pour Clear Casting Resin, Stone Coat Epoxy Resin, FGCI Superclear Premium Epoxy Resin, Janchun Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin Kit, etc.

Durability

Although durability and impact resistance are usually promoted as benefits of epoxy resins for wood, there are many other elements, most commonly environmental ones, that might affect durability. You should at least select a waterproof epoxy resin that is resistant to moisture and UV rays if you want great durability.

Viscosity

Low viscosity resins have faster drying times, making them suitable for small diy projects and vice versa (source: etsy)
Low viscosity resins have faster drying times, making them suitable for small diy projects and vice versa (source: etsy)

The thickness and ease of flow of the epoxy resin are referred to as viscosity. A hardener is added to the liquid resin to reduce viscosity and make the resin flow less easily.

Low-viscosity resins are more liquid, have a faster drying time, and are suitable for filling voids or soaking into porous wood. Low-viscosity epoxy resins that you can refer to are TotalBoat Table Top Clear Epoxy Resin, Janchun Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin Kit, HXDZFX Epoxy Resin Kit, etc.

Meanwhile, higher viscosity resins are better for coating surfaces or creating thick layers, but the curing time will be slower. The following products will have high viscosity suitable for large projects: FGCI Deep Pour Clear Casting Resin, Stone Coat Epoxy Resin, Naked Fusion Epoxy Resin Art, Rust-Oleum 261845 EpoxyShield Garage Floor, Magic Resin Deep Pour Epoxy Resin, etc.

Heat Resistance

Although many epoxy resins claim to be heat resistant, they actually have a limited ability to withstand high temperatures. To prevent the table top from warping when hot objects are placed on it, you need to find out how much heat epoxy resin can handle before using it.

You can refer to the following products with good heat resistance such as Stone Coat Epoxy Resin, Naked Fusion Epoxy Resin Art, Rust-Oleum 261845 EpoxyShield Garage Floor, RTG Bar & Table Top Epoxy, and Countertop Epoxy Resin.

Mixing Ratio

Epoxy resin needs to be mixed in the right ratio to give the best finish (source: artresin) best epoxy resin for wood
Epoxy resin needs to be mixed in the right ratio to give the best finish (source: artresin)

Liquid resin and a hardener added in the right ratio—typically 1:1—to form epoxy resin. To ensure that the resin is processed correctly, beginners should stick to the manufacturer's suggested resin mixing ratio rather than trying to be creative.

Health Safety

You should be aware of the following when using epoxy resin to ensure health safety:

  • Some resins may emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during curing, which can be harmful to health. Opt for low VOC or non-toxic options, especially if you plan to work indoors or in poorly ventilated areas.
  • Odor or off-gassing during the working process: There really is no resin that is odor-free, but you can find ones with low odor and wear protective measures such as gloves, glasses, and masks while working.

Coverage

Knowing the coverage area will help you estimate how much resin you need for your project, ensuring you have enough without excess waste. A gallon of resin should normally cover at least 12 square feet, and self-leveling epoxy resin is really helpful if you want an absolutely clear and smooth finish.

Conclusion

Epoxy resin is a practical substance that may create stunning finishes for your projects, including wood products, furniture, jewelry, interior design, etc. You can choose one of the best epoxy resins for wood from the list above depending on the scale of the project, your needs, or your budget.

FAQs

What epoxy do woodworkers use?

ProMarine Self-Leveling Epoxy Resin, Beast Bond UV Resistant Epoxy Resin, Naked Fusion Epoxy Resin Art, etc are top choices for woodworkers due to their 24-hour drying time and exceptional resistance to water, scratches, and UV radiation. Furthermore, they produce a crystal-clear finish that makes hardwood objects more durable and long-lasting in addition to making them shiner.

How long does wood epoxy last?

When epoxy resin is mixed and cured correctly, the resulting product can last 10 to 20 years, depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and project location.

Are there eco-friendly epoxy resin options for wood projects?

Yes. Among the best epoxy resins for wood above, you can choose those that do not produce toxic substances, VOC, or BPA such as Magic Resin Deep Pour Epoxy Resin, Naked Fusion Epoxy Resin Art, ArtResin VOC & BPA-Free Epoxy Resin, SRC Crystal Clear Resin, etc.

Can I use epoxy resin to waterproof wood?

Of course. If you want your product to be waterproof, you can choose to use waterproof epoxy resins such as ProMarine Self-Leveling Epoxy Resin, Magic Resin Deep Pour Epoxy Resin, RTG Bar & Table Top Epoxy, etc.

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I work as a freelance blogger in Seattle, Washington. I've been freelancing full-time for 5 years. I'm interested in anime, resin art, and mechanical keyboards.

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