Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin Tabletop Kit Instructions
IMPORTANT: READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THIS PRODUCT!
Materials needed:- Flat Bottom Paint Stir, Epoxy Mixing Paddle, or Spatula
- Disposable
- Measuring and Mixing Buckets
- Clean Squeegee, Brush or Foam Roller for spreading Plastic Sheeting
- Disposable Rubber Gloves
- Protective Eye Wear
IMPORTANT: Inaccurate measuring and incomplete mixing are the most common causes of poor results. This product MUST be used in the correct ratio and thoroughly mixed. For best results, mix Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin and Hardener in one bucket, then pour mixture into a separate bucket and thoroughly mix again. The ideal workspace temperature is 77°F. Room temperature must be between 70°F and 85°F during application until curing is complete. This product should not be used over oil-based stain.
Directions for Flat Surfaces Such as Tables, Bar Tops, Counter Tops and Flat Artwork
STEP 1: DETERMINE AMOUNT NEEDED FOR EACH COAT
Use the coverage chart to determine the amount of Crystal Clear Better Boat Epoxy Resin you will need for your project. Ensure you account for the amount needed for the seal coat and surface vertical edges if applicable.
STEP 2: PREPARE THE SURFACE AND WORK AREA
Work in a clean, dust-free, dry environment with an air temperature between 70°F and 85°F. Lay down plastic sheeting below work table for easy clean up. Only work on a steady and level surface. Ensure the surface to pour Epoxy on is clean and dry. For optimal results, wipe down surface using a clean rag and either acetone or rubbing alcohol.
STEP 3: MEASURE RESIN AND HARDENER
Measure 1 part Resin to 1 part Hardener by liquid volume or 100 parts Resin to 83 parts Hardener by weight. Pour into a large, clean, dry, smooth-sided mixing cup. Add the Resin to the Hardener for optimal results.
STEP 4: MIX HARDENER AND RESIN
Mix both parts together for a minimum of 3 minutes. Scrape the sides and bottom of the cup as you mix to ensure that Resin and Hardener are thoroughly mixed. IMPORTANT: When parts are mixed together in a large amount it can generate excessive heat, handle with caution. Do not mix more than a gallon.
STEP 5: REMIX HARDENER AND RESIN
To ensure fully mixed, pour mixture into a second container, taking care to scrape the sides and bottom as you mix. Thoroughly mix for an additional 3 minutes. Do not exceed 8 - 10 minutes as Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin will begin to cure.
OPTIONAL STEP: SEAL POROUS SURFACES
For surfaces with cracks or holes, or are porous such as wood, a seal coat layer is required for optimal results. To apply seal coat, pour Epoxy the entire length of the surface in a zigzag pattern. Using a clean rubber squeegee, foam brush or paint brush spread the epoxy in a thin coat over entire surface. Allow seal coat to sit for 4 - 6 hours before applying the next coat. Do not wait more than 10 hours to apply the next coat.
STEP 6: APPLY COATING
Pour mixture directly onto surface and distribute evenly with a clean rubber squeegee, foam brush or paint brush. Continue to pour until desired thickness is achieved. Epoxy can be allowed to flow over the edges and for drips to form which can be sanded off after epoxy has fully cured.
STEP 7: REMOVE AIR BUBBLES
Once you have completed layers of epoxy, use a heat source (ie; small propane torch, hair dryer, etc) to remove any bubbles. Hold heat source 6 - 10 inches away from surface and quickly sweep back and forth until no more bubbles remain. Avoid heating any spot for too long as to prevent distortions on surface.
OPTIONAL STEP: APPLY ADDITIONAL COATING
Allow initial pour to sit for 4 - 10 hours before applying the next coat if desired. The Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin must still be tacky for next pour to stick. If time in between coats exceeds 10 hours, lightly scuff the surface with 1000 grit sandpaper and wipe clean. Repeat Step 7 to remove air bubbles.
STEP 8: ALLOW SURFACE TO CURE
Air temperature must be above 70°F in order for Epoxy to cure. Allow Epoxy to cure undisturbed in a clean and dust-free environment. Any dust particles that settle into the surface during curing may cause imperfections. Allow surface to sit for 4 - 10 hours before applying next coat if desired. Epoxy will dry to the touch in approximately 12 hours and will fully cure in up to 7 days. Once fully cured, drips or excess Epoxy may be sanded off.
How To Clean Up:
Tools and surfaces can be cleaned with Isopropyl Alcohol 99% or a residue-free cleaner. Do not use soap and water.
COVERAGE CHART
Calculated by Thickness of Pour
Laminate Thickness | 1/2 Sq Ft | 1 Sq Ft | 5 Sq Ft | 10 Sq Ft | |
1/16” | Resin | 2/3 oz | 1 1/3 oz | 6 2/3 oz | 13 1/3 oz |
Hardener | 2/3 oz | 1 1/3 oz | 6 2/3 oz | 13 1/3 oz | |
1/8” | Resin | 1 1/3 oz | 2 2/3 oz | 13 1/3 oz | 26 2/3 oz |
Hardener | 1 1/3 oz | 2 2/3 oz | 13 1/3 oz | 26 2/3 oz | |
1/4” | Resin | 2 2/3 oz | 5 1/3 oz | 26 2/3 oz | 53 1/13 oz |
Hardener | 2 2/3 oz | 5 1/3 oz | 26 2/3 oz | 53 1/13 oz |
FAQs:
What materials work well with this product?
Wood, Glass, Ceramic, Stone Aggregate, Cement and most metals.
Do I have to pretreat the surface?
For wood and concrete, apply a seal coat first. For granite and ceramic, sand with 320 grit sandpaper first.
How do I figure out how much Epoxy should I mix?
Use the coverage chart above.
Can I save left over mixed epoxy?
No. The Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin will cure and harden onto the container it has been mixed in.
Can I use this over oil-based stains?
No.
Will this affect the color of acrylic paint?
No, but we recommend a spot test.
Over a month has passed since application and surface still has tacky spots, why and what can I do?
This is the result of the Resin and Hardener not being properly mixed. Small areas may be able to be improved by wiping down with Isopropyl Alcohol 99%. Large areas will need to be removed.
What is the highest temperature the surface can endure after curing?
135 degrees.
Can I use this product on an outdoor table?
Yes, but please be aware that Epoxy exposed to sunlight will yellow over time.
Can I re-coat a surface at a much later time.
Yes! This is the beauty of Epoxy. Even well-worn and scratched surfaces can be re-coated. Lightly sand surface and re-coat with fresh Epoxy to restore original luster.
Pro Tips
- If you are new to working with Epoxy we recommend mixing small batches until you are comfortable with the time-sensitive process.
- Inaccurate measuring and incomplete mixing are the most common causes of poor results. This product MUST be used in the correct ratio and thoroughly mixed.
- Only mix the amount of Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin you need for a single coat at a time
- Pour quickly after mixing is complete. Once the two parts combine, the curing process will begin in the mixing container so it is imperative to pour Epoxy as soon as mixing process is complete.
- Once pouring do not scrape sides of mixing container onto surface as it may contain unmixed Resin or Hardener which may cause blemishes.
- Never leave a large amount of mixed Epoxy in mixing container as it may become very hot and begin to smoke due to the heat generated from the chemical reaction and amount of Epoxy.
- Seal items prior to embedding or encapsulating them.
- If you wish to place paper or other objects under the poured table top surface, the objects must be bonded to surface with either Epoxy or glue.
- When using this product to cast items, use thin pours of no more than 1/4”.
WARNING: Harmful if swallowed. May cause serious eye and skin irritation. May cause allergic skin reaction. Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.
Always wear protective gloves, clothing, eye and face protection. Wash skin thoroughly after use. Work in a well ventilated area. Avoid breathing fumes, dust vapors, gasses or spray. Do not get in eyes, on skin or on clothing.
IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. IF SWALLOWED: Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. IF ON SKIN: Gently wash with plenty of soap and water.
CAUTION: When parts are mixed together in a large amount it can generate excessive heat, handle with caution!
STORAGE: Keep container tightly closed at a cool to ambient temperature.
DISPOSAL: Dispose of product and container according to Federal, State and local regulations.
UN3082, Environmentally Hazardous Substance, Liquid, N.O.S., (Epoxy Resin), 9, PG III “Marine Pollutant”
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including (Propylene Oxide CAS 75-56-9, Bisphenol A CAS 80-05-7, and Epichlorohydrin CAS 106-89-8), which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and/or birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov