Tutorial:

How to Make Resin Coasters

What Is a Resin Coaster?

Simply, you are using a resin which is then poured into a mold to make a coaster. The coaster helps to protect your tables when placing glasses or cups onto them.

Materials Needed

To make resin coasters, you will need resin, silicone molds, color pigments, mixing cups, popsicle sticks, gloves, safety goggles, a curing mat, torch, cloths, and decorations.

Steps For Making Resin Coasters

Preparation

Preparation is always key to a successful project. Make sure you have read the instructions and have all of your materials ready.

Mixing and Coloring the Resin

The rule is to mix equal amounts or a 1:1 ratio of resin and hardener. Take your mixing stick and stir thoroughly, making sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the cup, which helps reduce the number of bubbles.

Embed Items

Choose what you would like to embed into your resin. The easiest option is to make the top of the coaster the side which is facing you. You can easily see what you are doing, as you embed the items facing up.

Pour the Epoxy

Once you have mixed and added color, you can pour your resin into your mold. When embedding items, you will first add a thin layer, covering about 1/8 of an inch. You then add your object.

Cover and Cure

When you have done pouring your resin, you can leave it to cure. The resin can be handled at about 24 hours, but to cure completely, leave for at least 48 hours.

Unmolding the Coasters

The silicone molds do not usually pose any problems and the cured resin should pop out perfectly. Using a mold release product also helps with demolding and extends the life of your mold.

Polishing the Coasters

The resin piece in most cases will have a glossy surface after casting. You can easily use fine-grain sandpaper and wet sand the item. You might even be able to leave out the sanding part and only use a resin polish.

Inspiration for Different Types of Coasters

Ideas for your DIY resin coasters can include adding shells, coins, bottle caps, photos, clockwork pieces, paper, buttons and beads, mosaic tile pieces, and stones and sand!