How can I make an acrylic finish on wood, like in seafood restaurants?

Question

You know those tables where there are coins and shells embedded inside, and the acrylic (I guess it's acrylic) seems like frozen liquid on top.

I would also guess that you make it like those lucite paperweights that have business cards embedded in them.

I imagine that I have to make a tray, put my wood piece in,lay in all the goodies and start pouring in the acylic. And then let it harden.

My question is this:

How would I find how-to guides on this?

I see lots of guides for painting on acrylic or polyurethane, but nothing like I'm looking for.

Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

It took me a long time to figure this out, too. There is a pour-on epoxy finish that seeks its own level, dries hard and clear. There is a version at Home Depot/ Lowes and also specialty stores like Rockler.

Answer 2

You have it right. One thing that will help is the warmer the table the easier the epoxy will flow, be even, fill holes and release air bubbles.