Resin coasters are a great way to enhance your home’s decor. You can make these resin coasters at home for a fun DIY project. It is a fun and peaceful activity that allows you to express your creativity. Moreover, these beautiful coasters make wonderful gifts for family and friends. In this article, we will walk you through the process of making resin coasters at home.
Steps to make resin coasters
Materials required
- Epoxy resin
- Hardener
- Silicone coaster moulds
- Stirring sticks
- Colourants such as pigments and dyes
- Cups or containers
- Heat gun or torch
Procedure
Prepare the resin
Combine equal parts of epoxy resin and hardener in a disposable cup. Stir the mixture for 2-3 minutes until it is mixed well. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the epoxy resin you use.
Add colour to the resin
To the resin mixture, add a few drops of your desired colour and swirl it until it is uniformly distributed. You can add resin dyes, alcohol inks or even acrylic paints.
Pour the resin mixture
Carefully pour the resin mix into the silicon moulds. Blend various colours and pigments to create unique patterns and gradients.
Tip: To make it more captivating, add decorative items like glitters, dried flowers or metallic foils and gently place them into the resin.
Remove the air bubbles
To obtain a smooth finish, use a heat gun or torch and gently sweep it over the resin’s surface. The heat will help to remove the bubbles that formed during pouring. Avoid keeping the heat source too close or for too long, as this can cause the resin to dry up too quickly.
Cure the resin
Place the mould in a dust-free area and allow it to cure according to the product’s instructions. This normally takes between 24 to 48 hours. To avoid disturbing the curing process, avoid touching or moving the mould during this period.
De-mould the coasters
After your coasters have fully hardened, de-mould them. If you use silicone moulds, gently bend them to release the coasters. For resin moulds, tap on the sides or use a release agent such as baby powder or mould release spray to loosen the coasters. Remember to be patient and gentle to avoid any damage.
Finishing touches
Check the coasters for any rough edges or imperfections. Smoothen out any rough patches and softly sand them with fine-grit sandpaper. Remove any dust with a clean cloth. Lastly, apply a clear varnish or another layer of resin coating for a glossy and long-lasting finish.
Enjoy your coasters and use them to add your personal touch to your table decor.
Precautions
While working with resin and different design techniques, you need to follow certain precautions to ensure safety.
- Cover your work surface with a plastic sheet or newspaper to protect it from spills.
- Work in a well-ventilated area as epoxy resins release fumes when stirred.
- Put on gloves, a mask and eye protection to safeguard yourself.
- Avoid direct contact with the resin, as it can cause allergies and skin irritation.
- Be careful while using the heat gun.
FAQs
How to make the coaster stay intact?
Avoid exposing the coasters to excessive temperatures, handle them with care and keep them out of direct sunlight in a cool, dry location to ensure their longevity and quality. To clean the coaster, gently wash them with mild soap and water.
How to de-mould the coster?
To release the coasters, gently stretch the mould's sides. If the coasters are resistant, a releasing agent like baby powder or release spray can be used to help them release more easily.
How much time does the coaster take to dry up completely?
For specific curing times, check the manufacturer's instructions. The resin usually takes 24 to 48 hours to fully cure.
How to remove air bubbles from the mixture?
Use a heat gun or torch to remove air bubbles after pouring the resin. Move it over the surface of the resin gently while also keeping a safe distance.
My coaster still has some rough edges. How do I remove them?
Gently sand the rough edges with the help of sandpaper and then wipe away the dust with the help of a damp cloth.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
Anil Shah, is your go-to source for property market insights. He excels at understanding and explaining the latest trends in residential real estate and making complex real estate concepts easier to grasp. Anil’s fact-based analysis helps buyers and investors make sound decisions in the housing sector.
