This guide explains how to create a glowing table using photoluminescent powder and clear casting resin in Pecky Cypress hardwood. The process involves preparing the wood, mixing resin with glow powder, and casting it into the wood’s natural cavities.

Materials Needed

  • Pecky Cypress hardwood (with natural fungal cavities)
  • Blue photoluminescent powder
  • Clear casting resin (1:1 ratio)
  • Jointer, table saw, plate joiner, vacuum, compressed air, sanders, acrylic strips, masking tape, polyurethane finish, router, and hairpin table legs.

Steps

  1. Prepare Wood: Use a jointer to square the edges of Pecky Cypress boards. Cut planks to size using a table saw with a sled.
  2. Join Planks: Use a plate joiner to create biscuit joints, glue planks together, and clamp overnight.
  3. Clean Cavities: Remove rotted wood from cavities using a vacuum, screwdriver, and compressed air. Wear safety gear due to dust.
  4. Sand Surface: Use 80-grit sandpaper to smooth the joined planks, then clean thoroughly.
  5. Mask Board: Tape the underside to prevent resin leakage. Use acrylic strips and masking tape on ends and sides.
  6. Mix Resin: Combine equal parts resin and catalyst in large cups. Add glow powder, mix thoroughly, and pour into cavities in small batches.
  7. Pour Resin: Fill cavities gradually, ensuring even glow powder distribution. Allow resin to cure overnight.
  8. Remove Masks: Peel off acrylic strips and masking tape after curing.
  9. Test Glow: Expose the table to sunlight, then test in darkness for the glow effect.
  10. Sand Edges: Use a drum sander and random orbital sander (80-400 grit) to smooth the surface.
  11. Route Edges: Create a rounded edge using a router with a custom fence to avoid uneven cuts.
  12. Finish: Apply polyurethane with multiple coats, wet-sanding between layers for a high-gloss finish.
  13. Attach Legs: Paint anchor plates black, drill holes, install anchor nuts with E-6000 adhesive, and attach hairpin legs.

The finished table glows for up to 20 minutes after UV exposure, creating a unique ambient lighting effect.

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