How to resin a countertop
Adding resin to a kitchen countertop can completely transform your kitchen or work space into a sleek, modern space. Here’s a step-by-step guide specifically for kitchen counters, with key details that differ from other worktops (like wood or concrete).
Project difficulty: Medium / Difficult
Project time: 24/48 hours (this will depend on the number of layers used)
What You’ll Need
- Epoxy resin & hardener (specifically rated for kitchen counters or food-safe use)
- Painter’s tape / masking tape
- Drop cloths or plastic sheeting (to protect your floors)
- 120–220 grit sandpaper or ideally an orbital sander
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Plastic spreader / foam roller / brush
- Heat gun or small propane torch
- Spirit level
- Nitrile gloves, respirator, and safety glasses (see more about resin safety here)
- Mixing cups, stir sticks
- (Optional) Pigments, tints, or mica powders for custom colors
Step-by-Step: How to Resin a Kitchen Countertop
1. Clear and protect your work area
- Remove everything from the counters and nearby areas (resin can splash!)
- Cover any cabinets, walls, and floors with plastic sheeting.
- Tape off any walls or backsplash edges, sink rims, and undersides of overhangs.
- Make sure you have good ventilation — open windows or use fans / purifier if possible.
2. Prepare your countertop
For laminate or old kitchen counters:
- Clean thoroughly with a degreaser or rubbing alcohol to remove oils and residue.
- Lightly sand all over (including any edges) with 120–220 grit to remove the gloss. This will roughen the surface so resin adheres.
- Wipe off all dust with a damp cloth and let dry.
If you have any seams or chips in your worktop:
- Fill them with epoxy filler or wood putty, let dry, and sand smooth. Make sure you clean with alcohol after.
TIP: Your surface should feel matte and clean before proceeding.
3. Apply a seal coat (this is important!)
A thin seal coat helps prevent your worktop from getting bubbles and ensures a smooth final pour.
- Mix a small batch of epoxy (just enough for a thin coat).
- Spread it thinly with a brush or plastic spreader.
- Use a heat gun to remove bubbles.
- Let it cure for 6–12 hours, until tacky but not sticky.
4. Mix the Main Pour (Flood Coat)
- Mix the resin and hardener according to the manufacturer’s ratio exactly. They’re all different so always double check!
- Stir slowly for 3–5 minutes, scraping sides and bottom to make sure it’s fully mixed.
- If adding color or effects (marble veins, metallics, etc.), mix pigments now.
Don’t whip the mixture – air bubbles can form.
5. Pour and Level
- Slowly pour the resin across the countertop.
- Use a spreader or roller to help it flow evenly and self-level.
- Allow it to drip slightly over edges – this ensures a smooth wrap. Use a gloved finger if necessary to spread over the edges.
- Use a brush to catch and smooth drips underneath.
6. Remove Air Bubbles
- Within a few minutes of pouring, run a heat gun (or small torch) 6–8 inches above the surface.
- Sweep side to side gently; you’ll see bubbles pop.
- Repeat every 10–15 minutes during the first 45 minutes.
7. Curing
- Keep dust and insects off the surface by tenting it with plastic sheeting.
- Allow to cure for at least 24 hours (or up to 72 for full hardness).
- Avoid touching or placing objects on it during this time.
8. Optional: Second Coat or Topcoat
- For deeper gloss or extra durability, apply a second flood coat after the first is tack-free (usually 6–12 hours later).
- Some people apply a urethane topcoat afterward — it adds UV and scratch resistance.
Cleaning & Maintenance
- Clean with mild soap and water – avoid harsh chemicals like bleach.
- Use trivets for hot pans (epoxy can soften above ~60°C / 140°F).
- Use cutting boards – don’t cut directly on the surface.
- Regularly apply a polish or mineral oil for shine and protection.
Key Tips for Kitchens
✅ Choose a food-safe epoxy.
✅ Make sure your counters are perfectly level before pouring.
✅ Work in a dust-free, low-humidity environment (ideal temp: 20–25°C / 68–77°F).
