Design & DIY

Creative carpenter fills wood gaps with glow-in-the-dark resin

Close-up of wood combined with blue resin. Photo by Oliveshadow/Shutterstock

Resin is a staple tool of carpenters for filling cracks and splits in wood projects, but this creative twist pioneered by woodworker Mike Warren mixes in glow-in-the-dark materials to create a beautiful melding of natural materials and otherworldly glow.

Check out the pictures below, and if you’d like to try a project like this yourself, you’re in luck. Follow this link for detailed instructions as to how you can create your own similar project.

Essentially, aluminum plumber’s tape was used to reinforce the crack’s edges, and the surface levelled.The stiff tape is important so that it maintains a uniform edge alone the sides of the wood.

Then the resin was heated and mixed with the pigment that glows. “Hot tip,” warm the resin with a hand dryer to speed up the popping of bubbles.

The resulting shelves were mounted on standard wall brackets, all set to impress future guests.

Mike Warren has also created a glow-in-the-dark table using similar techniques and cyprus wood. You can find a detailed, illustrated list of steps on Instructables, though this process requires some more specialized tools such as drum sanders and compressed air.

Sign up for our newsletters

By submitting your information via this form, you agree to receive electronic communications from Cottage Life Media, a division of Blue Ant Media Solutions Inc., containing news, updates and promotions regarding cottage living and Cottage Life's products. You may withdraw your consent at any time.

Weekly

The latest cottage-country news, trending stories, and how-to advice

Bi-weekly

Fix-it info, project ideas, and maintenance tips from our DIY experts

Monthly

Nature and environment news and inspiration for people who love to get outside

Weekly

Need-to-know info about buying, selling, and renting cottage real estate

Five-part series

Untangle the thorny process of cottage succession with expert advice from lawyer, Peter Lillico