Cherry Epoxy Tables - Stunning Resin Furniture With Vibrant Cherry Wood

The Beauty of Cherry Epoxy Tables

Epoxy resin tables made with rich, deep cherry wood are growing in popularity for their stunning visual appeal. The flowing epoxy resin paired with striking wooden grain makes for an eye-catching furniture piece. Cherry's reddish-brown hue looks especially vibrant under translucent resin.

Choosing the Wood

Cherry is an excellent choice for epoxy resin tables. It's a hardy hardwood that's durable enough to withstand daily use but also possesses a refined elegance. Opt for wood with dramatic figuring in the grain to allow the epoxy to showcase the wood's natural beauty.

The reddish tones of cherry wood add warmth and vibrance when combined with epoxy. Other lighter woods may get washed out or overpowered visually by the resin. The rich hue of cherry holds its own. Its varying grain patterns also add lovely visual interest under the smooth epoxy surface.

Preparing the Wood

Proper preparation is key to achieving a smoothly coated epoxy resin layer over the wood. Any imperfections in the wood will show through the resin, so take time to carefully sand and fill any knots, cracks or holes. Aim for a blemish-free surface.

The wood must also be completely dry before applying epoxy resin. Any moisture trapped beneath the epoxy may cause cracking or peeling. Allow several weeks for freshly cut cherry wood to dry out thoroughly before use in a resin table.

Applying the Epoxy

There are several techniques for getting a smooth epoxy coating over cherry wood. Flooding the entire surface with resin works well. Use a foam roller or brush to spread the epoxy evenly. Allow it to self-level and cure before sanding and applying a second coat.

You can also contain the resin within a dam around the table's perimeter. This takes more precision but prevents drips. Build the dam slightly higher than the wood surface to account for resin shrinkage as it cures. Remove the dam once the resin has hardened.

No matter the application method, be sure to coat the edges and underside of the wood as well. This seals the wood fully and prevents moisture damage.

Achieving a Glass-Like Finish

Multiple thin coats of epoxy resin will cure to a harder, glassier finish than a single thick coat. Sand lightly between coats for optimal clarity. Use a clear epoxy formulated for tables or counter tops.

Carefully remove any dust nibs or imperfections in the final epoxy layer. A propane torch can gently melt away small bumps. Or sand with very fine grit sandpaper. Finish by buffing and polishing the cured epoxy for a crystal clear gloss.

Creative Design Options

Cherry epoxy tables provide the perfect canvas for creative embellishments within the resin. You can embed decorative items like crushed sea glass, shells, stones or dried flowers. Or add glitter, mica powder or alcohol inks for pops of color and interest.

Get artistic with the table's shape as well. Flowing resin lends itself to rounded or organic edges and holes or gaps in the wood. Customize the design to suit your style, allowing the epoxy to spill artfully over the cherry wood base.

Protecting Your Table

Once complete, a cherry epoxy table requires minimal maintenance. Simply clean the glossy resin surface with mild soap and water to keep it looking freshly poured. Use coasters under glasses to prevent scratches.

Avoid setting extremely hot items like pans directly on the table, as epoxy resin can be vulnerable to heat damage. Otherwise, the robust epoxy coating will protect the beauty of the cherry wood for years of use.

The Stunning Appeal of Cherry Epoxy

With proper preparation, application and care, a cherry epoxy table makes a gorgeous statement piece. The interplay between the wood's swirling grain and the liquid smoothness of resin creates a visually striking, long-lasting furniture piece. Let cherry's rich colors shine through translucent epoxy for a table that dazzles.

FAQs

What types of epoxy work best for tables?

Opt for a thick, durable epoxy resin formulated especially for table tops or countertops. These are designed to cure hard and be scratch and heat resistant when fully cured.

Should I use a dam or flood the surface when applying epoxy?

Both techniques work well. Flooding the surface is easier but can result in drips. Using a dam takes more effort but contains the epoxy neatly. Either way, tape off the bottom of the wood to catch drips.

How many coats of epoxy are needed?

2-3 thin coats allow the epoxy to fully cure to an ultra clear, glass-like finish. Lightly sand between coats for best clarity. More coats build up protection.

How long does it take epoxy to cure?

Cure times vary by brand, but expect at least 24 hours for each epoxy coat to fully harden and 48-72 hours for full strength to develop.

Can epoxy resin crack or yellow over time?

Quality epoxy should remain crystal clear for years. Cracking can happen if moisture gets under the epoxy. Avoid this with proper sealing and prep.