River table epoxy resin calculator
A river table is the project with the most resin (and the most expensive) at stake, so it pays to calculate well. Here is how to measure the channel, why you need a deep pour resin, and how the pour is split into layers.
How to calculate resin for a river table
Measure the channel you are going to fill, not the whole table. If the channel is irregular, take the width at three points and average it. The volume is length x average width x depth (in cm), and multiplying it by the resin density gives the mix weight. Add a 10% margin.
You need a deep pour resin
River table channels are usually 3-5 cm deep, well above the limit of thin-layer resins. A coating at that depth overheats, yellows and cracks. That is why a deep pour resin is used, formulated to pour several centimeters without the reaction running away.
Pouring in layers
Even with deep pour, if you exceed its maximum depth per layer you have to split the pour. Between layers you wait 16 to 24 h so the previous one has gelled but is still reactive. The calculator splits the pour and gives you the grams for each layer.
Example: living room river table
- Channel
- 120 × 18 cm (avg width)
- Depth
- 4 cm
- Volume
- ≈ 8,640 cm³
- Mix (+10%)
- ≈ 10.5 kg
- Layers
- 2 of 2 cm
Note: The calculator averages the width of irregular channels and splits the pour into safe layers.
Want the exact amount for your piece, with the A:B ratio and layer plan?
Calculate my river tableFrequently asked questions
How much resin do I need for a river table?
Calculate the channel volume (length x average width x depth) and multiply by the density (~1.1 g/ml). A living room table with a 120 × 18 × 4 cm channel needs about 10 kg of mix, split into 2 layers.
What resin is used for a river table?
A deep pour resin, able to be poured in layers thicker than 2 cm without overheating. Thin-layer (coating) resins crack and yellow at that depth.
Why is it poured in layers?
To stop the exothermic reaction from building up too much heat. Between layers you wait 16-24 h. The calculator splits the pour automatically based on your resin.