Beginner's Guide To Pouring Epoxy | RK3 Designs

Don't try epoxy before watching, trust me! Today we're going back to the basics! Learn all the important details to getting started with epoxy!
Tutorial Supplies and Photos
www.rk3designs...
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RK3 Designs is a learning studio focused on teaching how to create beautiful epoxy finishes using Stone Coat Countertop Epoxy. These tutorials include epoxy countertops for kitchens, bathrooms, and much more. This channel provides tutorials for DIYers, contractors, designers, or artists.
Rhonda Dracoulis Founder and Primary Instructor
RK3 Designs started as a way for Rhonda to showcase her creativity but has blossomed into a way to help others find theirs. Her obsession with painting led her to start refinishing furniture and kitchen cabinets. She found customers wanted a nicer option than laminate but more affordable and customizable than natural stone, which lead her to countertop epoxy! Since then, she’s helped thousands of students, from across the country (and even Canada eh?).
If you prefer a more hands-on learning experience, book a class with Rhonda today: www.RK3designs... RK3 offers numerous classes that cater to different levels of experience.
To learn more about Epoxy and Rhonda follow us on our socials.
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🎨 www.rk3designs...

[@RK3Designs]

rk3designs.com || How's the tutorial? Did I leave anything out? 🙃

[@dorisreynolds7057]

Great instructions...fantastic job!!!

[@Creek-Critter]

Your tutorial was very well presented, it was a step by step presentation, no you never missed a thing, your coverage was excellent.

[@thejulesist]

Excellent!!!! I don't believe you left anything to the imagination!!! Thank you!! Getting ready to do my flood coat now!!

[@BROKENHEARTDESIDUDERJ]

NO MA'AM (⁠☞⁠^⁠o⁠^⁠)⁠ ⁠☞ IT'S NEVER EVER ANY KINDA POSSIBLITY BY U'RS SIDES TO FORGETTING SOME POINT ☝️ 👉 OR SOMETHING ELSE'S' EVER . . I M VERY THANKFULL TOO YOU ALWAYS FOR 🙏 TEACH-IN US FOR VERY ALONG TYM'S OR ALMOSTLY GIVEN US A KNOWLEDGE'S & EVERY KINDA UNIQUELY LESSONS COMPLETELY JUST FOR FREE CLASSES TO IF I SAID LIKELY FOR MA TYPE'D PERSON'S OR 😔☝️ PPLZ ☜⁠ ⁠(⁠↼⁠_⁠↼⁠) THOSE WHO'S NEVER AFFORDED IT'S BUT MA'AM SPECIALLY GIVEN US ALL TYPES OF TRICKS OR EVERYTHING 😔(⁠☞⁠^⁠o⁠^⁠)⁠ ⁠☞😐MA'AM U ALWAYS TEACH-IN US WITHIN VERY SERIOUSNESS VERY KINDNESS OR HUMBLENESS WAY'S FOR. . 🙂 SO SORRY FOR IF I SAIDA ANYTHING WRONG & FOR MA ENGLISH TO I KNOWN IT.. 😏 I MEAN TOO SAID IT'S VERY BAD SPECIALLY FOR WROTEN TYM'S BUT I UNDERSTAND VERY VERY WELL JUST HOPE'S SO U GOTTEN MA POINTS 👉☝️ WHAT I MEANT TO SAID FOR MA'AM. . BEST WISHES FOR U ALWAYS 💕 BEST OF LUCK FOR FUTURE'S 👍🏻😍 (⁠*⁠❛⁠‿⁠❛⁠)⁠→ JUST TC URS GUDY GUDY GUD SELF☜⁠ PEACE🕊️🕊️ OUT 🙏

[@joleeneangelle7498]

This was so informative, and I wish that I had watched this before I ever tried to do my countertops.

[@Megamailh]

The best instructor/teacher ever. Thank you

[@RK3Designs]

Wow, thank you!

[@dawn-gk2tr]

Thank you for the " Idiot's guide to doing one's first apoxy pour " . I searched everywhere for basic things like whether one does a flood coat when using ultimate top coat and was left unsure. You cleared that up for me. Bless you for the simplicity of your directions.

[@RK3Designs]

You are more than welcome and don’t hesitate to give us a call if you need to. 😊 www.RK3Designs.com

[@bebbie423]

No matter how many ways I tried googling / researching certain steps in my project, I never felt I got complete answer… until I watched this video. THANK YOU!!

[@RK3Designs]

You are too sweet. Thank you!! 😊

[@whooonewww]

I think the way you say trowel is adorable!

[@RK3Designs]

🥰🥰🥰

[@scottjames8611]

Excellent !! Well done! I've been watching many videos, and this is the best!! By the way, there was nothing wrong with the way you said trowel. We all speak a little differently all over this wonderful country of ours.

[@RK3Designs]

Thank you so much!!!!!

[@onefishtoo]

Thank you Rhonda, you're such a GREAT instructor, I finally feel capable of working with epoxy resin in my art, please don't ever stop teaching and sharing your knowledge with the World.

[@RK3Designs]

You are so sweet!!! Thank you so much!

[@iffok75]

I don't usually leave comments. But I wanted to thank you for your clear instructions and the many things you mention that most companies that sell these products fail to mention. They need to hire you as their representative. Great video and instructions.

[@RK3Designs]

Thank you!!! I’m so glad this video was helpful to you. 😊

[@aok2727]

Great video. Don’t let the trolls get you down. Call the trowel anything you like.

[@gerdamay2200]

Thank you so much Rhonda!! Awesome tutorial!!! You are one of the best instructors I have seen!! I am binge watching a lot of your tutorials. Thank you for being so so clear and precise with your explanations!! I am ready to go tackle the Art world. You did not leave anything out 🙃 As far as how you say the word "trowel" I love it!! Please do not change that because that is who you are!! 🤩 Thank you so much for the inspiration!!!

[@RK3Designs]

Aww. Thanks!!!! I’m so glad the videos are helping you!! 😊😊

[@sarahb8271]

Super, super, super helpful!!! I even took lots of notes! You're a good teacher and very nice too! I can't wait to play with SCC Epoxy now! Oh, and I like "trial" (trowel, as we say "up North) it's regional and shows your authenticity!😊 Thank you for making this vid.

[@RK3Designs]

You bet!! I’m happy it was helpful!! 🥰

[@christinepfeiffer4821]

Love your style Rhonda- practice-practice-practice

[@lisajimerson4568]

I'm from Texas and I say trowel the very same way! lol

[@debbiekazmark4190]

Thanks Rhonda!! I learn so much from your videos.

[@RK3Designs]

You are so welcome. Thanks for watching!!

[@Paula-po9kx]

Thank you Rhonda. Awesome instructions, I’ve watching your videos for a long time now and I still don’t have the courage to start, maybe now with this video I can. The only thing I was expecting was you to do was not stop there and take it a step further!! I would like to know how you wrap the handle on the torch to keep it from getting all sticky.

[@thejulesist]

She uses press and seal wrap to wrap her tools

[@onlymyrooles]

You are amazing! Thank you so much for this in depth information! Someone suggested watching you in the comments on another KZbin channel and am I ever grateful!

[@Michelle-oc4ty]

Great refresh Rhonda!! Haven't done this in awhile, but your shows are informative and fun!!

[@Creek-Critter]

Excellent Video, a very professional presentation, thank you from Australia.

[@RK3Designs]

Thank you so much!!! Hope to make it down there next year!!! 😊

[@dorisreynolds7057]

This was a great teaching video. Rhonda you are the best!!!!

[@RK3Designs]

Thank you!!! 😊😊

[@monashukla7550]

This is a very helpful information for beginners.. Very precise and accurate information and tutorial... Thanks 👍 I was finding videos for epoxy tutorials for quite a long as I am interested in doing this work...and I found your videos popped up suddenly ..and is really well explained and much of help....I am happy that I found you 😁 . Now I will be able to begin my work with epoxy..😊👍

[@RK3Designs]

Yeah!! I’m so happy you found my videos helpful!!! I really appreciate you watching!!!! Thank you!!

[@kayweinland5638]

Thank you Rhonda! This video is awesome!

[@RK3Designs]

You’re so welcome!! Thanks foe watching ❤️

[@tootz1950]

I saw that you had a sample counter with a backsplash. I was hoping you were going to use that as your example piece, but you used a flat piece only. Please explain how to pour on the backsplash...I'm afraid that it will roll off leaving a real thin coating and making a puddle at it's base.

[@MrRottweiler72]

I agree

[@lauriegriswold9033]

Great info! I have been using epoxy for a couple of years but learned something new. Thanks!!!

[@MariaNyceDesigns]

LOVE THIS!!! THANKS SO MUCH!!!

[@RK3Designs]

You bet!! Thanks for watching!

[@Kreative_Rainbow]

Great video!! 👏👏 That copper patina look is so pretty. 💙 The cool thing about the black was your tee shirt refection!! 🤗 It took me a bit to get used to you saying "trial" for the northern trowel word. 😂 But now it just makes me smile! 🤗😍 When I hear it, I know it's Rhonda and she's southern and a doll!! 🥰🥰

[@RK3Designs]

Lol. I’m trying to say it better 😂😂😂

[@Kreative_Rainbow]

@@RK3Designs It's all good!! 👍 If people allow themselves to be bothered by one word, they aren't that interested in your wonderful teaching!! 🤗😍

[@norinemueller4588]

Such a great video thank you

[@RK3Designs]

Awesome. Thank you!! I appreciate you watching!

[@inarainyplace]

Perfect tutorial!! Thank you so much.

[@RK3Designs]

You are so welcome! Thank you for watching.

[@suzanne6681]

What an amazing tutorial! I haven’t seen anything like it! Can you please tell me what type of brush you need for your “chop brush”? Should it always be brand new?

[@RK3Designs]

We have good brushes on our website. You can store them in an airtight container with acetone and use them over and over.

[@earlinelewis8075]

Thank you, thank you for doing this 💗

[@RK3Designs]

You are more than welcome!!

[@gianfrancobolla6658]

Wow!!!, great video, thanks .

[@DrJamesBWood]

Thanks! Super helpful.

[@RK3Designs]

Thank you!!

[@laurelsemcek4693]

This video was great

[@coyotewacker]

Thank You … No you Didn’t Leave Anything Out !, As Far As I’m Concerned Anyway …I Pour So It Was Great An Informative… Getting Ready to Try your Water Drop Technique !,, Thx Again

[@RK3Designs]

Awesome. Let me know how it turns out 😊

[@Nrscathy60]

Thank you. The only thing to add is to scrape all sides of your stick to mix all of the liquid stuck to the stick. Plus, I mix at least 3 minutes and wouldn't need to chop.

[@RK3Designs]

Perfect. Thanks!! 😊😊😊

[@debbeneman9792]

I love your videos. Excellent instructions. & Information. Such beautiful pieces. Awesome. May I make a request for something I'd like to see you do? I watch you make all these amazing & beautiful tables & countertops. I would love to see you do something for those who want matching chairs with their tables. How would you do that?

[@RK3Designs]

Are you wanting to see something painted to match the chairs? I wouldn’t recommend putting the epoxy on chairs.

[@GeorgeBP81]

I think that a diamond sandpaper would help in prepping non porous tuff surfaces like granit, marble, glass and ceramic for a better mechanical bond.

[@RK3Designs]

You are absolutely right!! That would be the best. Unfortunately that’s not a tool a lot of people may have access too. Thank for the feedback 😊😊😊

[@theheinzification]

I assume there is no way to reuse the brush once it was in contact with resin? TY for the effort you put in your videos! I love them all!

[@mollybankhead5865]

Hi! I recently discovered your channel and have enjoyed your newer videos. I have been wanting to work with epoxy for quite a while, and have watched many “how to” videos, but still have not felt comfortable proceeding. After watching this video, I am now confident about the technical aspects I need to know to make my skoolie shower panels. Now I just need to get some foam board and practice the color combos I’m interested in creating. Thanks for this video! Very easy to follow, concise and helpful! Two questions: 1. Is 1/2” foam board too thin to use for shower panels? 2. How do you handle the edges of the foam board since it won’t be possible to use a round over bit? Thanks again!

[@RK3Designs]

Hey there, I’m so glad that you found our videos helpful. You can use half-inch inch foam as long as your walls are flat with no imperfections. 1 inch foam is recommended for the rigidity. You can do a rock edge with Bondo or butt up a piece of trim wood on your edges. Let me know if you have any questions and don’t hesitate to reach out. Check out our website www.rk3designs.com/ and sign up for our newsletter to receive exclusive discounts on products, classes, and more.😊😊

[@katiegordon610]

What about a butane torch smaller but produces a flame like when making creme Brule

[@RK3Designs]

those aren’t usually stout enough to pop bubbles on a large surface. Smaller projects you could get away with it.

[@katiegordon610]

@@RK3Designs great thanks

[@carolinasart9051]

Rhonda, I wanted to see how you applied the colors. I am working on a project that needs to look almost identical to that with same colors. Thanks!!!!!

[@kaya6357]

Great tutorial! Do you have a video posted for the piece behind you during this video? The cream colored piece with brown veins? I'm obsessed with it.

[@RK3Designs]

I don’t have a video of that exact piece. This was a piece the students created in class. However, here’s a video that talks about the way we create these type of veins. Creating Patterns Across Corners: A Southwest vein finish with Stone Coat Countertops Epoxy

[@corinnemertes6393]

What kind of paint and primer? Flat ,satin,semi-gloss? In going to attempt the design by Allen that you did. I'm excited but I do have a backsplash and I'm not sure how I'm going to implant it yet.

[@holleyhagerty2560]

Awesome ty m. How do you clean your chop brush?

[@deloresalexander2965]

After the flood coat, I didn't order the 3rd top coat didn't see that on my order list or if I needed it.

[@RK3Designs]

We highly recommend using the Ultimate Top Coat for superior added protection and durability 😊

[@ragz45]

Hi there, I've been watching a bunch of your videos, and I'm ready to try my first project. Is there a video that explains the difference between using ink vs powder vs spray paint for a project for your colors? Trying to order for my first pour, but confused on what material to use for my colors

[@RK3Designs]

I’m so sorry I’m just seeing this comment. I don’t have a video on this but I will try to get one made. There are so many ways to tint the epoxy. Every product will creat a slightly different effect. I use mostly Mica powders and dyes that were specifically created for epoxy.

[@FMarie-po4mh]

Great tutorial. I have laminate countertops, doing the prep stage, when do you sand the countertop? Before the primer, before the undercoat? I didn't see that part.

[@RK3Designs]

Hi there! I have a couple of videos on prepping your surface. May want to check those out. You definitely want to sand with a low grit sandpaper to your laminate before you get started. Clean very well then paint two coats of a very good bonding primer. I use XIM bonding primer. Let that dry then paint two coats of your base color. Sand lightly between coats. Then you’ll be ready to pour the Epoxy.

[@Faithlovelifeafter25]

I wish you would have included the color pour .

[@laurelsemcek4693]

How and what was used to make the sample board?

[@BuckarooCoyote]

What would you recommend for pouring over glass or metal? Can it be done?

[@jaxszeszko5291]

What about stains Does the top coat prevent this. Also I love the colors on this final board you did what are they thanks

[@RK3Designs]

It’s very stain resistant!!! I’ve done several stain test and I’ve always been able to get them out. You can also use a product called LA Totally Awesome.

[@sepidehakhaveissy7692]

Can I use these for jewelry making

[@RK3Designs]

You bet. Our Art Coat resin in fantastic for jewelry. Check out our website wwwrk3designs.com 😊

[@tammy3458]

The majority of people prefer the Southern female’s accent…so much more pleasant to hear than the nasally Long Island New Yorker accent!

[@priscilaesperancilla30NOV65]

what kind of bonder paint shall I use for previously painted wall? is latex acrylic fine as prep base for epoxy?

[@RK3Designs]

If pouring over a slick surface, you’ll need a bonding primer first. A latex paint is fine to use but you need to wait a minimum of 24 hours before you pour to all the paint to off gas.

[@JanineMKartist]

Is it non toxic like art resin? How does it compare in general overall? I wonder if I can round the edges of art gallery painting panel ? Those are birch wood usually or pine . I messed up pouring a tiny amount of art resin for a test I was doing . Some dribbled over the sides and now my a and b bottles ore uneaven by about 1/2 an ounce or more. Kicking myself . I sit on a chair so I can see better for easier accuracy . I scrape around the sides while mixing and my empty containers still get sticky spots after peeling away the cured skin. Art resin also says one should be able to cleanly peel it away . It’s fine how you say trowel. Is stone coat heat resistant? I’d love to make a big lazy susan for our round dining table some time. I love spreading with my hands .

[@CandyJones-gw6wf]

Can you use paints instead of dyes

[@GaryYoung-eq1ph]

How 2 create a green pond over fake wood c top?

[@woodworkinginwheelchair7175]

Could not find any links for buckets or rocket leveler

[@kkatfightt]

omg i just laughed so hard @ 17:24 with you and saying "trial". i'm tulsa, oklahoma born and raised and we sure do have that southern accent but i had to turn on the subtitles/captions for it to tell me what word you actually mean and what the hell that thing was in your hand.... it's "trowel"! 🤣💕

[@earlinelewis8075]

Rhonda Do you have a video on a repour, I recently did my countertops one was very tacky of which I found out it was because I undermix. I haven't pour my top coat yet, so do I resend the whole counter and then pour my topcoat or do I repour the art coat let dry and continue with topcoat. One more thing can I add diamond dust to the topcoat. I know I'm asking a lot but I'm stuck and need to move on. Thanks in advance ☺

[@RK3Designs]

If the surface is really sticky then unfortunately you’ll need to remove that area. Pouring on top of a sticky spot will cause adhesion issues down the road. Depending on your design will dictate if you need to repour the whole countertop.

[@caseyjohnson6573]

On the copper and teal sample board what mica flakes did you use?

[@RK3Designs]

We have the flakes on our site now. I used the bronze and gold. 😊

[@vickie418]

Mrs Rhonda you recommend flood coat only when you do countertop or everytime you do a epoxy design

[@RK3Designs]

We flood coat all of our projects for added beauty and durability. 😊

[@FemkeKrock]

Thank you! I do have a question about float coat. I get a strange pattern on my surface. It looks like the dust after sanding which lays on top of the epoxy, but I’m thinking that’s not it. Could it have something to do with my nitrile gloves? Because I love working with my hands, like you do, but I’m thinking there’s where the problem is. It can’t be dust because it happens more than one layer. Thanks in advance 🙏🏼

[@RK3Designs]

I’m not exactly sure what you’re talking about. I’ve never had issues with my gloves leaving patters. Is there anyway you could email me a picture? [e-mail]

[@FemkeKrock]

@@RK3Designs I will, thank you so much

[@DelmanilaArtPainting]

What is the difference between the enamel epoxy with catalist and the epoxy u used? I want my abstract painting had e bubbles.. How?

[@hectordanielrabagorivera8642]

How do I find the elevators?

[@RK3Designs]

Here’s a link. 😊 www.fireflyinnovationsor.com/shoplevelers

[@steverhea9404]

Do u offer classes

[@rogerlittlejohn475]

what do you call the levelers used in your process? where can they be purchased?

[@RK3Designs]

www.fireflyinnovationsor.com/product-page/flat-top-heavy-duty-rocker-leveler Use RK3 at checkout.

[@fu6461]

Ciao

[@judyfdavis3951]

Ok I'm going for white marble and didn't order the art coat did I mess up to bad?

[@RK3Designs]

I would highly recommend that you use the Art Coat. It will really make a difference. Did you order from me or from the Stonecoat website?

[@judyfdavis3951]

@@RK3Designs Stone Coat

[@patriciarosa9222]

Hi, how would you put resin on glass? Please help me with that job. I think for ga very well but after some time, it will peel off? Thanks

[@RK3Designs]

You’ll need to use a really good bonding primer before you do anything. Are use XIM bonding primer. Two coats, let dry overnight and test by scratching your finger nail on surface to make sure it doesn’t come off before you go to the next step.

[@patriciarosa9222]

@@RK3Designs thank you, from Argentina!!

[@robertazacharias7766]

I’m old 68 can I do this I’m not bragging but I’m pretty talented do lots of different things. Quilting, painting lots of different crafts.

[@fairrider3346]

HMMMM, THE LINK TO THE ROCKET LEVELERS IS NOWHERE TO BE FOUND.

[@RK3Designs]

Here ya go. www.fireflyinnovationsor.com/shoplevelers