3. Building the Mold and Preparing the Wood

A leak-proof mold and perfectly sealed wood are critical to prevent a disastrous, messy epoxy leak.

1. Creating the Round Mold

Construct a round form slightly larger than your intended table diameter using a flexible, non-porous material. A common method is to use a strip of flexible plastic or sealed plywood bent into a circle. Seal all interior seams with silicone caulk and tape to ensure it is absolutely watertight. The mold must be placed on a perfectly level surface.

2. Sealing and Positioning the Wood

The wood must be sealed with a thin coat of clear epoxy or a specific sanding sealer on all surfaces that will contact the liquid epoxy. This prevents air bubbles from escaping the wood and becoming trapped in your pour. Once sealed, suspend the wood slab in the center of the mold using small blocks or by attaching temporary legs, ensuring it is level and stable.

3. Final Pre-Pour Checks

Double-check the level of your workspace and the mold. Ensure the room temperature is stable (typically 21-24°C or 70-75°F as per epoxy instructions) and humidity is low. Clean the mold's interior with isopropyl alcohol to remove any dust.