The Best Epoxy To Use

Save a lot of time, money, and frustration by learning the best practices for using epoxy and how to pick the right epoxy for your project! Most problems with epoxy can be solved by simply using the right epoxy resin product, and following a few simple best practices.
www.ycmt2.com/blog/epoxybuyer...
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Introduction
01:02 Best Practices
05:34 Penetrating Epoxy
07:22 High Performance
10:31 Deep Pour Epoxies
15:00 TableTop and MakerPoxy
17:46 Casting Urethane Epoxy
19:00 4 Minute Epoxy & This
21:30 Speciality Products
24:00 Degassing Epoxy
29:23 Viscosity Comparison
32:50 Runaway Exothermic
33:30 Cast and Turn Example
34:22 Outro
CHANNEL SPONSORS:
TotalBoat visit ycmt2.com/discounts for discount code
Penguin CNC: pcncinc.com​ Use "YCMT2" for $300 off!
MATERIALS USED:
High Performance: www.totalboat.com/product/hig...
Table Top Epoxy: www.totalboat.com/product/tab...
Thickset: www.totalboat.com/product/tot...
Thickset Fathom: www.totalboat.com/product/thi...
Penetrating Epoxy: www.totalboat.com/product/pen...
MakerPoxy: www.totalboat.com/product/jes...
VIDEOS REFERENCED:
• 4 Ways to Estimate How...
MY TOOLS
ycmt2.com/tools-i-use
SOCIAL MEDIA
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SERVICES I USE
Music: Epidemicsound.com and AmpleTunes.com
Editing: Ilia Petrov
Motion Graphics/Plans: JP @ / foxhallwoodworks
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Closed Captioning: bit.ly/REVcomAffiliate ($10 coupon for you)
Some links to merchandise may be affiliate links and I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases.

[@wmtodd8249]

This is the greatest breakdown of epoxy and related tips I've seen since I started getting into epoxy, if only I started getting into epoxy after the release date of this video. Fantastic, and thank you!

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Thank you! These comments mean a lot

[@Angel_Arpit]

This is exactly the video I was looking for. I am going to use epoxy for the 1st time and I was so confused with so many different products that Total boat and other manufacturers have. Now I know what the use case for each product is. Thank you!

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Excellent, glad I made it!

[@calleeharris4182]

Epoxy work is so satisfying to watch! Also, the tool wall behind you looks great!

[@dashrooster8915]

I've been a wood worker most of my life and now at a half century old looking into Epoxy. Your video was a great help. I also live in RI so I feel Total Epoxy will be a good fit. Thank you.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

For sure! Gotta support a great local company.

[@robotsnthat]

I use the technique taught to me when I did a resin course, the 2 mix method. Mix thoroughly in your first measuring container, then pour into a second container and scrape your measuring container out also. Thoroughly mix again for a perfect mix. Can scrape the second container knowing it is properly mixed.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Solid technique

[@moderntouchfurniture]

Wow that was a TotalBoat product use course, excellent video, tons of great advice, thank you.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Glad it was helpful!

[@monopinion8799]

I’m definitely reviewing this video again again and again. Very informative and interesting. Thank you so much.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Thanks! That’s why I did it 😀

[@J-D248]

Thank you so much for sharing what's in your brain on all this stuff! You've saved me many many hours, dollars and lives.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Thanks! I know it’s longer than most, but I’m really big on answering “why.” I don’t think just throwing a bunch of products at people is very helpful.. but if I explain why I love these things and think they’re good gifts… it’s easier to decide which may be the right gift for someone else - and then you can also explain why you thought it was a good gift, and everyone loves a thoughtful gift.

[@J-D248]

@@YouCanMakeThisToo That's exactly what I appreciate about your videos, I learn by trial and error. Having it explained why something went wrong makes it easier to figure out how to fix it :-) Saves frustration and makes it more enjoyable.

[@N0body247]

Wow, thank you for that explanation. Now I understand the differences in labels.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

95% of DIY videos is literally just telling people the stuff they don't wanna bother reading off of labels or in instruction manuals. You'd be surprised how many "ESSENTIAL PROFESSIONAL TABLE SAW TRICKS!" are described with pictures in the operating section of the manual.

[@thomlipiczky9021]

Excellent comparison and really valuable information. Thanks so much for posting this. I'm definitely subscribing to your channel!

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Thanks!

[@brical1176]

This is exactly the infomartion I have been looking for. Been having a hard time turning some epoxy projects. Looks like I have been using the wrong stuff. Thank you

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Glad I could help

[@deankay4434]

A quick tip I learned was to place your mix cup in an ice cream bucket or of appropriate size. Tape 2 or 3 edges down from inner cup to outer bucket then add ice. Water will help absorb more heat during the exothermic reaction but the tape will hold it down. This slows the kick considerably if you need extra time to sand a spot or tack rag and blow or just to wipe down. We all get caught in the heat of the battle while fitting the clock and this trick will help. Gel coat, many epoxies and other two part products that have a short pot life even auto paints.

[@robert.brokaw3829]

Interesting video - nice to see the visual addition to what you talk about - thanks. stay safe

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Thanks, you too!

[@AGlimpseInside]

@totalboat is the gold standard when used correctly. Listen to this guy. He’s got the know how!!!

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Thanks brother!

[@TotalBoat]

Thanks Caleb!! Great video and SO informative!!

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Glad you think so!

[@JkCanvas]

Great video on how to mix and get the most out of your epoxy

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Thanks, Will!

[@AffyBoy]

thanks heaps -- got my new studio benches and door to create -- so thanks for GREAT video

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Glad it was helpful!

[@JkCanvas]

Like the warm glow of the lights against the poplar wall.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Me too, so soothing

[@jefferymccaleb7536]

Great video. Thanks

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@simpleman4196]

I have been looking into using this brand of epoxy. I mostly work with 3/4" wood I would like something that I could fill knot holes sometimes they go all the way through the wood and I would also like to fill cracks that sometimes go all the way through the board I will more than likely want to make the epoxy black what would you recommend for me to use thank you this was a good video

[@amospeterson3251]

Thanks a bunch, very valuable information! AmosP

[@jeffdeluca1153]

So Great video. I have a log for a turning with a nice size Crack in one end - approx 1/2-3/4" wide at the surface and narrows down to nothing . Approx 3" deep. What's the best product to use, and how many pours or can I fill-in up in one shot? Thx a bunch Jff

[@sandrarattray1202]

Very helpful. Thank you. One question, how long should you wait between layers of the Thickset or thickset then fathom ! Can you discuss/explain the fingerprint method I have see folks refer to?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Once it's gone to a gel state.. I can touch it and it doesn't stick me, I count it safe to do the next pour.

[@choimdachoim9491]

Seems like extremely practical and experienced advice. Just out of curiosity though, I'd weigh the individual containers of resin and hardener my first time mixing small batches to be sure that scale-weights equal volume-amounts. Some liquids/hardeners might be lighter than others.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Not a bad idea. I general weigh small amounts just because it’s the margin of error in volume mixing makes it easier to be out of ratio

[@chrisroy7085]

You are correct and the video is wrong. Thanks for pointing this out. The mix must be by volume NOT weight. Although well-intentioned, this guy does not know what he is talking about.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Depends on the product. With totalboat you can do either. I spent a week at their facility and we talked about this. Density is close enough you can go either way.

[@katiedotson704]

@@chrisroy7085 You can still mix accurately by weight IF you weigh an equal volume of base and hardener which will give you the correct ratio for mixing by weight. But whether using the volume or weight method, I use one container. I usually pour in the "A" first then add "B" per the ratio called for. In that way, I am mixing the epoxy per the recipe correctly without trying to scrape every last drop from one container. However when mixing really small amounts, I do sometimes use syringes, using 1 syringe for each part.

[@paulhyde3056]

The ratio is slightly different when measuring by weight. TotalBoat has tech sheets with instructions to measure by weight. They are posted on their website.

[@mariushegli]

I have nothing to say really, but I appreciate your content, and wish to help with the yt-algorithms.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Thanks!

[@robertokesson4843]

Would the tabletop epoxy be good for coating a wood sign outdoors or would it yellow from sunlight?

[@HRConsultant_Jeff]

I am trying to take some Olive burl and make 6-8" bowls using resin to fill in the gaps and create a round blank for turning on my lathe. You lost me on which one would work best. Seems like a medium pour and maybe in 2 or 3 stages, not sure. Suggestions?

[@jminichcastro]

Great video Caleb! Could you please recommend the right epoxy for sealing painted rocks. The children in our neighborhood paint rocks and would like to seal them. I have run into a problem with moisture under the resin the results in lifting the paint and peeling. The rocks are outside year round. Thank you!

[@creesenebeker5686]

Try drying your rocks in a low oven before applying your sealer. 12 hours to dry, then 12 hours to cool. Tabletop epoxy is likely the best for coating them.

[@lb8766]

Hi Caleb great video. I want to do cutting boards with a river through it. As a beginner please advise which of the total boat products to use. Thanks

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Thickset in 1/2” lifts

[@redbaron8989]

Awesome instructions! I’m replacing a rotted floor board in my aluminum boat using 1” thick new marine plywood. How many square feet will 1 gallon of penetrating epoxy cover with one coat? Also any need to thin it? Thanks!

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

There’s no need to thin it… and I don’t know about square foot coverage. It just depends on what it’s going on. Some will drink it up and soak deeper so it won’t go as far. The more rotted and punky the more it’ll take. Fresh wood doesn’t take much.

[@skinnydog4]

I been having issues with pouring in my jar molds in one pour. I've been getting tiny holes/ bubbles on the surface of my jars and it's a pain to sand and recoat. Wastes a lot of time and money on projects. Will this epoxy work for molds 4 inches tall?

[@jwilliam1542]

Good video. What do you think of Wisebond epoxy? Have you ever used it and if so, how does it compare with Total Boat?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

I've never used it, couldn't say.

[@brplatten1273]

But I don't have a vacuum chamber so what do I do I need to pour a little bit on the top of the slate top table

[@michelled5749]

Hey! Thanks for these details. I am halfway through a deep pour of a charcuterie board and I wondered if you (or anyone here) could explain the differences between table top and deep pour epoxy before I pour my second half. I left the bark on my boards, so I planned to just do a deep pour to cover the entire board (wood and previous deep-pour epoxy layer). Most recommendations I am seeing are to remove all deep-pour epoxy after final curse time via sanding and then cover with the table top resin for the final coat(s). Would I have luck with just covering the whole board with deep-pour (for my upcoming second layer) or do I need to use the table top resin for some reason? Your videos have been super helpful. Thank you!!

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Short version is table top is formulated for thin (1/8”) pours, and deep pour can be between 1/2”-3” depending on the product. Pour a deep pour thin and it’ll take forever to cure.. if it ever does.

[@michelled5749]

@@YouCanMakeThisToo Thanks! Yes, I was planning on pouring at least 3/4" for the second layer, so that should be enough to cure. Is there any benefit to pouring the second coat as the "final" coat (covering all the wood) or using table top resin for that final coat?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

@@michelled5749 Not really. Any resin can be a top coat. I only do another "skin coat" if I'm not happy with the current coat for someone reason. Just be sure to check the label for whichever epoxy you're using to make sure that 3/4" deep is within what it can do!

[@mbr5290]

Thank you I learned a lot. Do you have to wait for the penetrating epoxy to fully cure before you add the thick set or table top epoxy or just until it gets tacky

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

I let it fully cure

[@stellapayne4316]

how do you clean your mixing tools

[@fjelstednord3159]

I've been a loyal Ecopoxy & Ecopoxy Flowcast user for years and typically pour my tables between 1.75" and 2.25" thick in One pour. I haven't had any issues yet. I do lower my shop temp and use a fan to disperse the heat. Can you pour that thick with Total Boat in One pour or do you need to do 2 pours? I don't want to see any lines between the layers.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

With the thickset fathom you can do up to 2” in one pour.

[@luispinedasimons9551]

I'm from Mexico and I work with wood, I wanted to make epoxy tables and with so much information and brands I'm confused, I want to buy some to make a couple of tables, could I get them on amazon and which one do you recommend?

[@thedigitalshack]

Want to cover forward cabin of our boat with Epoxy (52.65 SqFt). What would be recommended?

[@norbgs07]

If I’m trying to fill CNC carved paths, do you recommend high performance with fast hardener? Also, would you seal the wood first with no pigment and let it cure 100% before mixing color pigment? Does high performance bond well to already cured epoxy?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

It depends on the wood. If it's an open grained wood you'll definitely want to do a seal coat first. If you're using pigment, you can go with a faster curing epoxy because the pigment hides bubbles deeper in it. And epoxy will bond to itself, but it's best practice to scuff sand cured epoxy first. For thin inlays I prefer to use table top or makerpoxy because it flows and releases air a lot better than the high performance.

[@MAXWOODTURNING]

Thanks a lot for this mister. If i want stabilise wood, like for make a pen blanks, i need you use penetrating one ? (sorry for grammar, english isn't my primary language)

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

That’s right!

[@kellyburnham2795]

Hello - I used some reclaimed Douglas Fir Timbers for stair treads. The timbers have some large cracks that would measure 1/4" wide x 3-1/2" deep x 40" long. Which Total Boar epoxy would you recommend for this application? Thanks for posting.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Thickset will get it

[@Atrociousnes]

if i was trying to fill huge gaps like lnch by like 3 inch what would I use

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Definitely epoxy. At that size can also pack in sawdust too as a filler

[@jpm_nt_i9308]

Ok, so I’m a total newbie to the Epoxy thing. I’m making a pile of Catch-All Trays with a 3/32” deep engraved emblem in the bottom of the tray. I need to apply a thin coat, maybe an 1/8”, of epoxy to the bottom of the tray to protect the emblem and increase the durability of the tray. Recommendations??

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

I'd use a table top epoxy

[@hellapellanyc6465]

I am in the process of redoing a balsa deck, can total boat tabletop epoxy be used with wood flour for the filets on the corners? I have extra on hand for years that I've never used. Thinking how to use it in this project to save the structural epoxy for laminating.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

I’m purely guessing at this point, but my intuition is the tabletop epoxy would be the most similar to a floor epoxy. If you’ve got the extra, I’d be willing to try it

[@kahlua9]

What is your view on leaving bark on the outside edge for a table? I have a great piece of wood for a table and was reluctant to take the great bark off it, I feel like the penetrating epoxy might help me to keep it on?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Penetrating epoxy won’t go deep enough. For me I beat the bark with a hard mallet. If it stays, I’ll let it stay - if that’s the look I’m going for

[@brucebusby2156]

Where and which mixing tips do you buy if you need extras for Thixo?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Pretty sure you can order extra when you order the Thixo from Total Boat.

[@jeffp9522]

Using a kitchen scale is fine for 1:1 weight, but what about by volume? Some part A is heavier than part B and some are thicker by volumes

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Read the instructions for your product and it should give the ratio to use whether you're using volume or weight. For totalboat technically the by weight ratio is different, but using the volume ratios for weight is still well within the margin of error - so either works. But that depends on the brand and product, as always.. check the manufacturers instructions

[@VmanJeff]

So no one says it…. But can you reuse the mixing and/or pouring containers?

[@billymacktexasdetective5827]

Used total boat tabletop for the first time. My experience differed from what I expected based on watching this video first. 2 big differences. 1, the working time wasn't 10 minutes. It was over an hour. I mixed by weight 100 to 83, and it did properly harden so I don't quite understand that. B, a heat gun would not remove the air bubbles, not even close. A torch, however, took them out instantly and it still took over an over before it began to gel, despite the additional heat. I don't get it...

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

That is weird. Sounds like how epoxy behaves when it's below 70f

[@cliffgrando859]

Good morning Caleb, im using Total Boat products, im doing a chess board. The ratio is 3.1. If I use 4oz of resin, how much of hardner would I use? I'm soooooo confused, can you help plz?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Just divide the amount of resin by 3 to get the amount of hardener. 4/3 = 1.33333, or 1 1/3.

[@travelwell8098]

Looking at the description of the epoxy on Amazon... it states that it is "safer" for food because its BPA free. I am looking to see if it is food safe because I am wanting to make cutting boards and serving trays from different materials. But that doesn't really tell me if it's "food safe" per se. Maybe I'm just not-picking.... but I need to be sure. Anyone used these products for these purposes that can share some insight? Thanks!

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Did a deep dive on this question kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZConaOQdtignq8

[@johnterdik4707]

Do you use a new paddle for each mix? If you reuse the paddle how do you clean the paddle.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

While it’s still wet you can clean it in alcohol or mineral spirits. If you use the silicone paddles it peels off pretty easy one it’s cures.

[@tiffanyryan8702]

My first layer was total boat 5 to 1 and I need to put on another layer but only have liquid glass. Can't you layer different brands?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

You can if the previous layer is fully cured. Just be sure to scuff sand it and dust it really well.

[@123bright6]

What would I use to seal the edge of live wood

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

If it's soft use penetrating epoxy. Otherwise just finish it however you're finishing the rest of the wood.

[@faraway_bikehiking]

which is best for bamboo bike building? thank you.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

I've never built bikes or worked with bamboo, sorry

[@shopping4gems6855]

Hi is total boat good for floors?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

You could use it for that

[@Greg-or6bl]

Can you use this product to seal granite countertops?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Probably, but there are sealers available for natural stone - I'd use those.

[@briankeithwood]

Probably way outside your wheelhouse, but I wonder if any of these could be used to create an AR-15 OR AR-10 lower receiver? I know they print then using various printers but I wondered if you couldn't make a mold and pour something that would work.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

I wouldn't chance it. If it failed, there'd be sharp shards going everywhere... near your face.

[@creesenebeker5686]

You might look into doing fiberglass. It can be either addition or subtraction formed. In other words, you can build up layers, or cut and sand holes and curves.

[@romdaniguntara1955]

I'm from Indonesia How do I order total epoxy resin traditional kit ? I had a bit of difficulty ordering it

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

You'll have to reach out to their customer service, I don't know what kind of international shipping they do

[@ericmoorehead1100]

Are saying that parts by volume is the same as parts by weight?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

No, 'cause they're not. The difference between the two in this stuff is well within the margin of error, details are all on the label. In fact they're not even a true 2:1 or 3:1.

[@DJSbm-28]

Is there a way to talk through email or something. I am doing this first time. I am making a conference table for my son who is in the navy. He has just made officer and was given a high priority job in charge of base security. Very proud. Not the best thing for a first timer to try but I am going to give it a shot. From what I have seen on KZbin I was comfortable with the way you explained things. Would love to bend your ear a little and get some advice. Table is from 1945 Liberty ship, old wood, large gaps and a few other items that need attention. When completed it will look awesome but I feel I may need so guidance if that is possible from you. Thanks for reading and hope to hear from you soon.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Sure thing. That’s quite the project. [e-mail]

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Also I just did a video a few weeks ago specific to gap and void filling. You may want to watch that first. It may answer a lot of questions.

[@RichardKuivila1947]

Can epoxy resin that's made with no exothermic chemicals be cured if heated ?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

I’m unfamiliar with any such product… there is UV cure resin.

[@AB-gu3xn]

So what kind of epoxy for flooring?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

One formulated for it, there's several out there.

[@TripPiper]

How does this compare to Abatron?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Haven’t heard of it

[@exotictones1054]

The fathom will work on a 24"x24"x2"s thick w 2 pieces of 3/4" round split down the center so river look down the center .like a 3/4"cookie split down the middle round on the outside n flat down the center in a square 24"x24"x2"s deep.make since I hope.0

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

I hope so too I think

[@jaywalker8361]

Can you stir deep pour epoxy for too long?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Yeah, but that’d take like an hour or better.

[@rebeccas.670]

What is the shelf life of all?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Good question, so long as it isn't exposed to moisture should be pretty indefinite.

[@marcuspoe9353]

very nice descriptions thank you,,,,,,,, man, as an artist that use to do oil paintings, hanging the frames straight was a must,,, lol so sorry but your logo has a tilt, sorry my eye sees what it sees. great vid though bud.

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Haha no worries man, my comment page is flooded every day with the most criticisms that have nothing at all to do with what I'm actually trying to share. Ya get pretty desensitized to it most days

[@aroundtheshop]

Any Current coupon code?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Shoot yeah, didn't realize it had expired. New one is Caleb10

[@ArniethePirate]

So you're sponsored by them and yet you did a video on the best epoxy to use? OK...I'm so confused. Total Boat is great but your title and description isn't. What about West System...just saying. I have to keep editing myself...

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Yes.. there’s lots of formulations. This isn’t a “best brand” video, which would be silly considering that’s there only like two actual suppliers of epoxy. This is about the “flavors” of epoxy you’ll get with most brands, and of course I used the brand I’m sponsored by because I’m most familiar with theirs.

[@StevenDavisPhoto]

Superclear is better. Way cheaper than Total Boat and just as good. Use Liquid Glass if you're doing anything over 1/4" and their tabletop if you're doing anything less. Easy peasy!

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Glad you've got something you like working with.

[@mac6435]

total boat commercial

[@blindkimberly1360]

I don’t mind. At least he’s telling about the different styles. Helped me. 😎

[@JesusismyLord77]

As soon as he said he's sponsored by total boat I was done watching. I'm look for different options not just 1 company product

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Shame you didn’t hang another 10 seconds. The totalboat line up is pretty similar to most suppliers. The video isn’t best brand, it’s which formulation. I’ll teach you what type of epoxy you’re looking for.. you can go pick which label you like the most.

[@Danielceola]

I don't know what's going on, but the constant instant zoom in/out throughout this video made it hard to watch. Small thing, but dang it was a constant distraction; especially when it felt like it was happening mid-sentence. It wasn't even zooming in to get closeups or something, just slightly more in on the table :(

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Thanks for the feedback, definitely gonna look into fixing that

[@user-sb6uf1pk9t]

Which product is best for hardening wood for structural repair of a house, such as indoor rotten wood joist repair, etc ?

[@YouCanMakeThisToo]

Nothing. That needs to be replaced or sistered.