Resin for river tables: how to sand or polish or pour

Hello,

I’m starting to experiment with doing river tables, right now I’m making small test pieces with rivers perhaps 1 1/2″ deep, 4″ long. My goal is to be able to build a transparent river.

So far, my first test taught me that I have to seal the wood. I think it also taught me that I didn’t completely mix the resin, as it had wavy areas inside (looks like a mirage shimmer). I did it in two 3/4″ pours and had fairly good luck getting out bubbles.

I then planed it and began sanding. I went to 2000 grit, then DuPont #7 rubbing compound, then DuPont white polishing compound. was fairly satisfied with the result. I’ll take any advice possible around this area, but I have one big question: WHAT’S the best technique for building the dams and base to contain and release the epoxy? Just packing tape? Mold Release?