Hello all!

I am making a beer pong table out of painted ply wood, with either paper or plastic decals of my school's logo on top. I want to use something to create a waterproof, smooth finish on top that will protect the table and the decals. My first thought was to use epoxy resin but after doing some research I have found this is both hard to do, and quite expensive.

What would be the best alternative product to use to finish my table?

I have thought about varnish or shellac, but I am unsure if this will provide the smooth protective coating I am looking for, because it will be applied with a brush.

The table is 7 feet long by 2 feet wide, and I would like to keep the clear finish somewhere in the $10-$35 range as far as price.

Thanks for the help!!

 

Water based polyurethane....test it on scrap first, but should be ok.

 

Since you are incorporating paper and decals, "decoupage" comes to mind. Haven't thought about that since elementary school.

 

Would it be possible to pour on the Polyurethane? If not, is there an alternative that I could pour on?

I am worried I will never be able to get a smooth surface if I have to brush or roll the finish on.

 

Polys can't be poured on - they won't dry/cure correctly if applied too thick. You can add a little of Flood's Floetrol or XIM's Extendz to water based coatings to slow down the drying time which helps the coating to flow together better, reducing brush marks. Using the a quality brush [or the right short nap roller cover] will also help. Sanding between coats both promotes good adhesion and eliminates or reduces brush marks and/or roller stipple.