My First Epoxy Pour – Mistakes Were Made!

In this light-hearted woodworking adventure, I take on a unique commission from a local neighbor who needed help finishing an epoxy inlay on a massive mantle. Although epoxy work isn’t exactly my go-to specialty, I agreed to tackle the project, mainly for the challenge. And let’s face it, there would be a lot of potential for hilarity. This is, admittedly, my first epoxy pour. The most I’ve done with epoxy in the past was using it to fill knots, using it as a sealer, and making small resin art frames.

The mantle features a hand-carved “river” design inspired by the Legend of Zelda, specifically of the Rist Peninsula. The client created the initial shape using a Dremel. Before pouring the epoxy, I decided to refine the carving with power carving tools to smooth the edges and even out the depth. After some careful prep and color mixing, I poured the shimmering blue resin, layer by layer, to bring the carved river to life. That is, only after a disastrous start.

Despite some nerves and a few minor mishaps, the end result of my first epoxy pour is a dazzling epoxy-filled Zelda-themed mantle—and a reminder that sometimes saying “yes” to a project outside your wheelhouse can be surprisingly rewarding. And while I made mistakes, I found great value in learning hard lessons just by getting started!

Products Shown in the Video (affiliate links):

• Shabebe Deep Pour Epoxy
• Arm R Seal Satin
• Fuji Spray HVLP Turbine
• Milwaukee Die Grinder
• Carbide Burr (Round)
• Carbide Burr (Oval)
• BackSide Sandpaper
• Makrs Stain Pads Use Code TWW for 15% OFF!

If you’re looking for a little more resin inspiration, check out this article from our friends at Woodcraft: Resin Art Ideas & Epoxy Resin in Art Projects