How to create the river effect with epoxy resin

Creating the river effect with epoxy resin involves pouring coloured or tinted resin into a void in a tabletop or other surface, mimicking the appearance of a flowing river. Here are the general steps to create the river effect with epoxy resin:  Prepare the surface : Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and level. Seal or finish the surrounding area if desired, to prevent epoxy resin from seeping into unwanted areas.  Build a dam: Create a barrier or dam using a suitable material such as silicone caulk, clay, or wood strips. This will create a containment area for the resin to form the river effect. Make sure the dam is secure and properly sealed to prevent any resin leakage.  Mix the epoxy resin: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the epoxy resin and hardener in the correct ratio. Use a clean mixing container and stir thoroughly to ensure the components are well combined. Take care to minimize the introduction of air bubbles while stirring.  Add colour or tin t: Depending on your desired effect, add pigments, dyes, or alcohol inks to the epoxy resin mixture to achieve the colour of your river. Start with a small amount of colour and gradually increase until you achieve the desired hue. Stir well to ensure the colour is evenly dispersed.  Pour the base layer: Pour a thin layer of the mixed epoxy resin into the prepared surface, covering the entire area inside the dam. Use a brush or spreader to evenly distribute the resin and fill any gaps or voids. This base layer provides a foundation for the river effect.  Create the river: Once the base layer has reached a tacky stage (not fully cured but sticky to the touch), pour the coloured or tinted epoxy resin into the desired river path within the dam. Use a stirring stick, brush, or other tools to guide the resin, creating the shape, flow, and movement of the river. Tilt the surface or use gravity to help manipulate the resin.  Add depth and dimension: To create depth and visual interest, consider layering multiple pours of epoxy resin, allowing each layer to partially cure before adding the next. This technique can simulate the appearance of water flowing at different depths within the river.  Remove air bubbles: Use a heat gun or torch on low heat to remove any air bubbles that may have formed during the pouring process. Gently pass the heat source over the resin surface in a sweeping motion to help bubbles rise and pop. Take care not to overheat or scorch the resin.  Allow curing: Let the epoxy resin cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes several days, during which the resin will harden and become clear. Avoid disturbing the surface during this curing period to maintain a smooth finish.  Finish and protect: Once the epoxy resin has fully cured, remove the dam and sand any rough edges or imperfections. Apply a protective finish, such as varnish or polyurethane, to enhance the appearance and provide durability to the entire surface.  Remember to read and follow the instructions provided by the epoxy resin manufacturer for the specific product you are using. Experiment with different techniques, colour combinations, and resin layering to achieve the desired river effect in your epoxy resin project. Download PDF here