Choosing the best epoxy resin for your river table: What to know

If you’re diving into the world of custom timber furniture, you’ve likely asked the all-important question: What’s the best epoxy resin for a river table? It’s a make-or-break detail that can turn a simple slab of timber into a jaw-dropping centrepiece—or, if you get it wrong, an expensive disappointment.

At Jarrimber, we know a thing or two about crafting stunning, bespoke timber furniture, and river tables have become a modern favourite. The secret to that “wow” factor? It’s all in the resin. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what epoxy resin is, how to choose the right type for your river table, and why the right finish makes all the difference. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or commissioning a custom piece, you’ll want to know exactly what you’re working with.

What is epoxy resin, and why does it matter in river tables?

Epoxy resin is the crystal-clear (or sometimes vividly coloured) liquid that hardens to create the signature “river” running through the centre of a river table. When combined with quality timber—such as Jarrah furniture or Tasmanian Oak timber—epoxy can either highlight the organic beauty of wood or create a striking contrast.

But resin isn’t just about looks. The best epoxy resin for river table projects must:

• Pour deeply without cracking or overheating
  
• Cure to a hard, durable finish
  
• Resist yellowing over time
  
• Bond well with timber
  
• Stay crystal-clear—or take pigment well if coloured

Get any of these wrong, and you’ll be dealing with bubbles, dull patches, or even structural failure.

What makes the best epoxy resin for river table design?

Let’s break it down. These are the key properties you should look for when choosing epoxy resin for your next build.

1. Deep-pour capability

River tables aren’t shallow surfaces. A good epoxy resin must allow for deep pours—usually 5–50mm—without cracking, exothermic overheating, or air bubbles forming.

Look for products specifically labelled as “deep-pour” or “casting” resin, not surface coatings.

2. UV resistance

Sunlight is beautiful—but brutal. Without proper UV stabilisers, even the clearest resin will yellow over time. Choose an epoxy that includes UV inhibitors for longevity, especially if your table will sit near windows.

3. Clarity and colour options

Some people want a glass-like, crystal-clear finish to showcase rich timbers like Marri timber furniture. Others might prefer a striking blue, smoky black, or even metallic pigment to create bold contrast with Tasmanian Blackwood timber.

The best epoxy resin for river tables should offer flexibility, either naturally ultra-clear or easily tinted with resin-safe pigments.

4. Heat and scratch resistance

Whether it’s a centrepiece timber dining table or a custom hallway console, your table is bound to see everyday use. Choose an epoxy with a high heat deflection temperature and good hardness rating to avoid damage from hot mugs, keys or sharp objects.

Matching resin with your timber choice

The character of your timber will strongly influence your resin decisions. Here’s what to consider:

Marri: Let it shine

With its dramatic gum veins and warm honey tones, Marri timber pairs beautifully with clear resin to showcase natural voids and grain contrast. Deep pours bring out the timber’s organic texture.

Jarrah: Go bold

Jarrah furniture features rich, earthy reds—ideal for pairing with black, copper, or smoky-toned resin for moody, dramatic designs.

Tasmanian Blackwood: Elegant and versatile

This darker-toned timber complements both neutral and vivid resin colours, from sapphire blue to charcoal grey. Deep clarity works well to highlight its grain without overpowering it.

Tasmanian Oak: Softness meets style

Light-toned Tasmanian Oak offers a perfect canvas for bold resin colours. Go ocean blue or deep green for contrast, or soft white for a Scandi-inspired finish.

Pro tips for your resin pour

Whether you’re DIY-ing or commissioning a custom design, keep these essential tips in mind:

1. Temperature control is crucial

Resin reacts to ambient temperature. Too hot, and it may cure too quickly or crack. Too cold, and it might not cure at all. Aim for a controlled workspace between 20–25°C for best results.

2. Seal your timber first

Timber like Jarrah and Marri are permeable. Always seal surfaces with a thin coat of resin to prevent bubbles from forming during the deep pour.

3. Always measure precisely

Epoxy resins typically come in two parts: resin and hardener. Follow the exact mixing ratio on the packaging. Off-ratio mixes can stay tacky or brittle.

Why Jarrimber uses the best epoxy resin for river tables

At Jarrimber, every river table is a custom piece, handcrafted from ethically sourced Australian hardwoods and poured with premium-grade epoxy resin. We select resins known for their clarity, durability and UV resistance—tested across years of furniture-making.

Whether it’s a bold Jarrah and black resin combination or a clear, glass-like pour into a Tasmanian Oak base, our designs aim to last a lifetime—visually and structurally.

Looking for inspiration? Explore our full range of timber dining tables and discover the unique finishes made possible with high-quality epoxy resin.

Still unsure? Talk to our team

Choosing the best epoxy resin for a river table isn’t just about chemistry—it’s about creating a piece that reflects your space and your story. If you’re not sure where to start or want to learn more about how we craft our resin tables, contact us. We’re happy to walk you through timber options, colour combinations, or even help you design your own one-of-a-kind centrepiece.

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