How to Make Resin Photo Coasters
To make resin photo coasters, seal a trimmed photo, place it in a coaster mold, then cover it with resin in thin layers. Follow the resin maker's mixing and curing directions, and work with the ventilation and protective gear the product requires.
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To make resin photo coasters, seal a trimmed photo, place it in a coaster mold, then cover it with resin in thin layers. Follow the resin maker's mixing and curing directions, and use the required ventilation and protective gear.
The key is keeping moisture and air away from the photo. Seal the front, back, and cut edges, let the sealer dry, then check that the image sits flat before pouring.
What do you need to make resin photo coasters?
You need a coaster mold, a photo, a photo-safe sealer, resin, mixing cups, stir sticks, and protective gear. Read the instructions for both the resin and sealer before starting.
Gather these supplies:
- A flat coaster mold sized for the image
- A printed photo or copy you can trim
- A sealer compatible with the photo and resin
- Casting resin, measured and mixed as directed
- Disposable cups and stir sticks
- Gloves and any eye protection required by the product
- A level, protected work surface
- A small tool for positioning the photo, such as tweezers
Keep a spare print for testing. Paper types, inks, sealers, and resin formulas vary, so a small test can reveal smearing, cloudiness, or poor adhesion before you use a photo you care about.
For coaster ideas and materials, see our guide to how to make DIY coasters. If you plan to serve drinks nearby, our table linens and protectors guide covers ways to protect a dining surface.
How do you prepare and seal the photo?
Trim the photo to fit the mold, then seal both sides and every cut edge. Let each coat dry completely according to the sealer's directions.
Choose a photo with a clear subject that will still read at coaster size. Leave a small margin around the main detail if the mold has a rounded edge or a decorative border.
Place the trimmed photo in the dry mold before sealing to check the fit. Avoid creases, curled corners, or an image so large that resin cannot cover its edges.
Apply the sealer evenly without soaking the paper. Coat the front and back, then brush the cut edges; add more coats if the sealer's instructions call for them.
Let the photo dry flat in a clean, dust-free spot. Don't pour resin over a tacky or damp surface, since trapped moisture or solvents can affect the finish.
How do you pour resin over a photo?
Mix the resin exactly as directed, pour a thin base layer, position the photo, then add enough resin to cover it. Keep the mold level and avoid stirring air into the mixture.
- Put the mold on a level surface covered with a disposable barrier.
- Measure and combine the resin components in the ratio and order the instructions specify.
- Stir slowly, scraping the sides and bottom for the required time.
- Pour a shallow layer into the mold and let it settle.
- Place the sealed photo face-up or face-down, depending on the design you want.
- Add resin gradually until the photo is covered and the surface reaches the mold's fill line.
Use a clean tool to guide the photo into place. If it floats or shifts, wait briefly for the base layer to thicken only if the resin directions allow it, then reposition gently.
Don't exceed the mold's fill line. A deep pour can overheat or cure poorly when the resin is intended for thinner layers.
How do you keep bubbles out of a photo coaster?
Stir slowly and pour in a thin stream to reduce bubbles. If bubbles remain, use only a removal method approved for your resin and mold.
Air may cling to the photo's surface or edges. Gently pass a clean stick along the edge to release visible pockets before the resin begins to set.
Avoid breathing resin fumes or leaning close to the work. Don't use a torch or heat gun unless the resin maker says it is safe, and keep any heat source away from flammable materials.
How should the resin cure?
Leave the mold level and untouched for the full cure time stated by the resin maker. Protect it from dust, pets, children, and temperature changes while it cures.
Cover the project with a clean box or dust cover that doesn't touch the resin. Keep the area ventilated as directed, and don't move the mold while the surface is still liquid.
Cure time depends on the formula and working conditions. Don't rely on touch alone to decide that a coaster is ready; wait for the full stated cure period before demolding or using it.
How do you remove and finish the coasters?
Flex the mold gently to release the coaster after it has fully cured. Smooth any sharp edges with an appropriate method while wearing eye protection and avoiding resin dust.
If a coaster resists release, don't pry with a knife or force the mold. Check the resin and mold instructions for release guidance.
Inspect the surface for tacky spots, cracks, or exposed photo edges. Don't use a coaster that remains sticky or has a sharp edge; check the resin maker's instructions for next steps.
Which finished coasters suit a dining table?
Choose coasters that fit your drinkware and complement the table's style. For example, best wood and resin coasters can help you compare decorative options for a finished table.
The AVOCRAFTS set has round coasters with cedar wood and smoky epoxy resin, plus a black metal holder. Its 4 x 4 in size is worth comparing with the glasses and mugs you use.
The Huray Rayho set uses hexagonal shapes and engraved bee and honeycomb designs. Its resin-filled openings let light pass through, so it offers a more decorative look than a fully covered photo.
The Loongresinwood coasters are round and about 3.7 in across. Their individual wood grain patterns vary, so each piece has a distinct look.
How do you protect the table around photo coasters?
Use a coaster under each drink, and keep the table surface clean and dry. For a larger surface covering, choose a best fitted oval tablecloth with elastic or best rectangle tablecloth with elastic edges that matches your table shape.
A coaster helps catch drips beneath a glass, but it doesn't cover the whole tabletop. A best round table pad protector can add a broader layer under a centerpiece or serving dishes.
For a clear option, compare a best custom size clear table protector. For a coordinated fabric setting, see best linen tablecloth and napkin sets.
How do you make resin photo coasters successfully?
To make resin photo coasters that hold their image, seal the photo fully, use resin as directed, and let the coaster cure for the stated time. Test materials first, especially if the print is important or irreplaceable.
Pick a small, high-contrast photo and a mold that fits it without forcing the edges. If you prefer a ready-made decorative set, choose among the wood and resin options above; if you want a personal image, take your time with sealing and curing.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put a photo directly in resin?
You can embed a photo in resin, but seal it first so resin doesn't soak into the paper or cause the ink to bleed. Let the sealer dry fully, then test your materials together on a spare piece if possible.
Follow the resin maker's instructions for mixing, pouring, ventilation, and curing.
What kind of photos work best in resin coasters?
Small prints with clear subjects and strong contrast are easiest to frame inside a coaster mold. Choose a photo that can be trimmed without cutting off faces or important details, and check its size against the mold before sealing.
Test a copy first because inks and papers can react differently.
How long do resin photo coasters take to cure?
Cure time depends on the resin and the temperature and conditions in your workspace. Use the cure time and temperature printed on the resin's instructions, and don't remove or use the coaster early.
A surface that feels firm may still need more time to cure through.
Do resin photo coasters need a mold?
A coaster mold gives the resin a contained shape while it cures. Pick one with a flat base and enough depth for the photo and resin layers, then set it on a level surface.
A silicone mold is often easier to release, but use the mold type allowed by your resin.
