How to Get a Matte Finish on Epoxy Resin

In this instructable, I show you how to get a matte finish on epoxy. In addition, learn how to achieve various sheen levels on any epoxy resin surface. The wood and resin surface in this project originally had a glossy finish before I gave it a flat/matte finish for a more natural look.

There are several things which are difficult to fully explain with words and images, so be sure to check out the video tutorial.

Below are the tools I used in this project. Keep in mind, you don't need these exact tools to get the job done.

Rotex Sander

Sanding Protection Pad

Dust Extractor for Sander

Granat Net Sandpaper (120, 150, 180, 220 grit)

Abrasive Cleaning Stick or Air Compressor

Felt Buffing Pad

Applicator Pad for Oil

Odie's Oil

The proper epoxy sanding technique, sandpaper grit sequence, and sander are vital to achieving various epoxy sheen levels.

To sand epoxy resin, I use a Festool RO125 in rotex mode with a soft sanding pad.

In rotex mode, the sanding pad moves in a circular motion. Random orbital mode works as well, but this mode produces swirl marks and pigtails often.

Also, I use a dust extractor attached to my sander to reduce resin dust from building up. Obviously, resin build-up while sanding causes heat leading to burn marks on the epoxy surface.

Use the following technique with these sandpaper grits: 120, 150, 180, 220. As a quick note, dry sanding produces the same results as wet sanding with the right technique. There is no need to wet sand to achieve a matte finish.

First, sand across the surface with 1 or 2 passes.

Next, remove the resin build up on the sandpaper with an air compressor or an abrasive cleaning stick. As a quick tip, overlap each pass with the previous pass by a few inches to help prevent sanding lines.

Then, sand the epoxy surface in the opposite direction (with the grain or the longer direction).

Before changing the grit, use a damp cloth to wipe the service after each sanding grit.

Repeat this step for each sandpaper grit.

The last sanding grit used determines the epoxy sheen level.

Since 220 grit produces an epoxy matte finish, stop here and proceed to the next step. For a glossy finish, use 320-3000 grit sandpaper. Each grit will produce a higher sheen.

I use Odie's Oil on most of my projects and it works really well. After I cleaned the surface, I applied Odie's Oil to the epoxy resin and wood surface.

First, I stirred Odie's Oil until the consistency resembled honey. Next, I saturated a non-woven applicator pad with Odie's Oil.

I worked the oil into the surface and allow it to set for about an hour.

I performed the fingerprint test. Essentially, the oil is ready when I leave a mark across the surface after wiping my finger across it.

To remove the excess Odie's Oil, use a terry towel or felt pad to remove the excess oil.

The felt pad really helps bring the surface to life.

As you can see, this epoxy wood surface turned out great. Much better than the glossy/artificial sheen level it had before.

I hope this instructable provided you with value. Please feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions - I'm happy to help.

Be sure to checkout my YouTube channel and my website for more DIY tutorials.