How To Make Epoxy Resin Coasters

In this article, I’m sharing how to make resin coasters from start to finish. Resin coasters are a fun project that lets you play with different molds, colorants, and even things like dried flowers or glitter. It’s a great way to use up leftover resin and create something useful at the same time.

how to make diy resin coasters

I work with resin all of the time and coasters are one of those really popular things to make with resin. There’s something so satisfying about popping them out of the mold and seeing how the colors or inclusions turned out. Plus, they make beautiful handmade gifts.

How to Make DIY Resin Coasters

1. Supplies For making Coasters

Here are some supplies you will need to get started.

Supplies for Coaster Making

2. Best Resin for Coasters

There are many different kinds of resin like UV resin, epoxy resin and polyester resin. This DIY coaster guide will be using two part epoxy resin. One of the best brands to use for arts and crafts is called CraftResin. They have an epoxy that’s formulated for crafting. This is a two part resin ratio so it is really easy to use. Thicker resins like these are good for embedding glitter, leafing and flowers.

Craft Resin Amazon Store
Best Resin for Coasters

Another reason why this is a good resin to work with is because it has a formula to help stop yellowing. Some resins may have a slight yellowing or may not be entirely crystal clear. Clarity is a must, especially when working with translucent or transparent elements in your crafts, as it affects the final appearance of your pieces.

3. steps for making Coasters

Gather Your Supplies

Collect your supplies, including epoxy resin, molds, inclusions like dried flowers or glitter for resin flower designs. You will also need pigment or dyes, mixing cups & stirring sticks. A heat gun or torch will help remove bubbles. Use personal protective equipment which includes gloves, safety goggles, and a proper resin mask.

Prepare Your Workspace

Set up a clean, organized workspace with a flat surface. Cover your work area with a disposable tablecloth or plastic sheet to catch any drips or spills. Resin can be very messy, especially if this is your first time using it. Another thing you can use is a large silicone mat. These are really helpful for keeping all of your things together.

Silicone Craft Mat On Amazon

Measure and Mix the Resin

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to measure and mix the resin and hardener components in your mixing cups. The best way to use epoxy is to get a set of silicone cups because you can keep using them over and over. This really helps save money and they are not too expensive at all.

Add Pigments

If you want to color or add inclusions to your resin, add pigment or dye in small amounts. Mix well until you get your perfect color. Just be sure not to oversaturate the resin as it can cause it to seize. Usually you do not want to go over about 10%. If you are using good quality resin pigments then a little goes a long way. You can also sprinkle glitter or inclusions onto the piece after you have poured the resin into the mold. Totally up to you.

Add Pigments or Inclusions

Alcohol Inks: These vibrant inks come in a wide range of colors and can create stunning, translucent effects within your resin. Just be aware that alcohol inks are known to fade over time. But they are fun to play with.

Mica Powders: Mica powders give a shimmering, metallic appearance to your coasters and are available in a ton of metallic and pearl shades. These are some of my favorite things to add to epoxy resin, especially when I’m making geode resin art.

Glitter & Gold Leafing: Adding glitter to DIY resin coasters is a fun way to give them extra sparkle and personality. Mix a small amount into the resin for shimmer throughout, or sprinkle it into the mold to create pretty layers and patterns. Start with a little glitter since it is easy to add more, then have fun playing with colors, shapes, and sparkle. For more ideas, check out this article about gold ideas to use in resin.

steps for making Coasters

Dried Flowers: Pressed or dried flowers can bring a touch of nature to your coasters, creating a beautiful, organic look. One way I love to dry flowers is to use a Microfleur Flower Dryer.

Rolio Pigment Paste: Rolio pigment paste is highly concentrated, so begin with a tiny dab and mix it thoroughly into the resin before adding more. Too much paste can affect curing, so follow the amount listed on the package. Scrape the sides and bottom of your mixing cup to break up color streaks, then let the mixture rest briefly so trapped bubbles can rise before pouring your resin coasters. I have a step by step guide on how to use the Rolio pigment paste.

using pigment paste for coasters

Pour Resin into Molds

Slowly pour the mixed resin into each coaster mold, starting in the center and letting it spread toward the edges. Fill the mold a little at a time so it does not overflow, then use a craft stick or toothpick to guide the resin into the corners.

Pour Resin into Molds

Remove Air Bubbles

Use a heat gun or torch to pass over the resin’s surface to release any air bubbles. Be gentle and don’t get too close or you can burn and overheat the resin. I like to use the Black and Decker heat gun because it has a low setting. You should check on the coaster every 10 – 15 minutes because bubbles will keep rising to the surface over the next 45 minutes or so.

Remove Air Bubbles
Remove Air Bubbles

Cure Time

Let the resin cure on a flat, level surface in a clean area where it will not be disturbed. Cover the molds with a box or container to keep dust and pet hair away, making sure the cover does not touch the resin. Follow the curing time listed on your resin package, and wait until the coasters are fully firm before removing them from the molds. Here is a super helpful article all about resin cure times.

Demold and Finish

Once the resin is fully cured and hardened, gently demold your pieces. You may need to flex the silicone molds a bit to release the items. After demolding, you can sand, polish, remove any sharp edges, and add finishing touches.

Demold and Finish
how to make diy resin coasters

Tips For Making Resin Coasters

If you are having problems with too many bubbles in your coasters, a resin bubble remover machine can help bring trapped air to the surface before the coasters begin to cure. Place the filled mold on the machine, select the recommended setting, and run it for the time listed in the instructions. Here’s a guide on how to get rid of bubbles in resin coasters.

bubble remover machine

When working with resin, prioritize safety and work in a well ventilated area and wear a respirator to avoid inhaling fumes, use gloves and safety goggles to protect your skin and eyes. There’s a big section on this blog all about resin safety precautions. Have a dedicated workspace, avoid direct contact with resin on your skin, and handle chemicals with care. Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific resin you’re using for safe handling, proper disposal of waste, and compliance with safety guidelines. Also, resin is an adult craft and I don’t ever recommend children using resin.

  • Geode Resin Coasters: Geode resin coasters are made with layers of colorful resin, glitter, metallic accents, and crushed glass to look like sparkling stones. Each coaster has its own beautiful pattern, so no two pieces look exactly the same.
  • Beachy Coasters: Beachy resin coasters bring a little bit of the ocean into your home with sandy colors, blue waves, shells, and touches of shimmer. Add white resin along the edge to create a pretty sea foam effect that makes each coaster look like a tiny beach scene.
  • Botanical Resin Coasters: Botanical resin coasters are made by arranging fully dried flowers, leaves, or herbs inside clear resin. Dry the botanicals completely so moisture does not cloud the resin, then place them with tweezers and pour slowly to keep the design in place.
  • Glitter Resin Coasters: Glitter resin coasters can be made by mixing fine glitter into the resin or adding chunky glitter in layers for extra sparkle. Use a small amount at first since heavy glitter may sink to the bottom, and stir slowly to spread it evenly. You can also place glitter around the edges to create a pretty border while keeping the center clear.
  • Wood and Resin Coasters: Wood and resin coasters combine small wood slices or cut wood pieces with colorful or clear resin. Make sure the wood is completely dry and seal it first so it does not release bubbles into the resin. Place the wood inside the mold, pour the resin slowly around it, and let everything cure fully before sanding the edges smooth.

Resin Coaster FAQs

Will my coaster turn yellow?

Resin coasters can develop a yellowish hue over time depending on what resin you are using and what’s going into them. Unfortunately, almost all resins will eventually start to turn yellow. I have a geode that I made years ago that was pure white, and now has a slight yellow tinge. More information and questions about yellowing is right here: Why Does Epoxy Resin Turn Yellow

Do you have to seal resin?

No, you do not need to seal resin coasters once they have fully cured. Resin, particularly epoxy resin, is designed to create a protective and glossy finish on its own, eliminating the need for additional sealing in most instances. If your coasters include delicate inclusions such as paper, they will need to be protected by applying a sealant before casting them in resin so that the ink does not run.

One recommended paper sealer is Annie Howes, which I have used to help stop bleeding. Always do a test to make sure it’s going to work first.

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how to make resin jewelry guide

Thanks so much for reading about how to make resin coasters. I hope this inspires you to try making your own. Feel free to share this with fellow crafters and come back anytime for more resin ideas and tutorials.

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