1. Project Planning and Design Considerations

Before purchasing any materials, careful planning is essential. This phase determines the project's feasibility, cost, and final appearance.

1. Size and Proportion

Decide on the diameter and height of your table. A common diameter for a round coffee table is between 90cm (36 inches) and 110cm (44 inches). The height typically ranges from 40cm (16 inches) to 50cm (20 inches). Consider the scale of your sofa and room to ensure the table is proportionate.

2. Wood Selection and Preparation

The live edge or natural wood slab is the foundation. Opt for wood like walnut, oak, or maple with interesting grain patterns. The slab must be completely dry (kiln-dried is best) to prevent warping. It needs to be planed, sanded, and its edges may be trimmed to create a stable base for the river-like epoxy pour. For a beach style, a lighter wood like ash or pine can mimic bleached driftwood.

3. Epoxy Type and Quantity Calculation

For deep pours (like a ""river"" or ""ocean"" effect), you must use adeep-pour casting epoxy resin. This type cures slowly with minimal heat generation, preventing bubbles and cracks. Calculate the volume needed (length x width x average depth in cm, then divide by 1000 for liters) and always purchase 10-15% extra to account for spills and miscalculations.