Oftentimes, when we get questions about embedding objects in epoxy, those questions are in reference to pennies, the signature reddish brown coins of U.S. currency.
Because pennies are both cheap and visually attractive, they make a great choice to add depth to an epoxy project. They're also easy to embed, due to their slim, rounded shapes and textured surfaces—ideal traits for epoxy.
Over the years, many of our customers have sent us photos of their finished and in-progress epoxy penny projects, which range from ever popular bar tops, countertops, and tables, to the less common but just as intriguing penny floors, to even smaller objects like epoxy penny coasters and ornaments.
Before we put up the showcase photos, let's answer a couple of common questions related to penny epoxy projects.
When should you embed your pennies in an epoxy project?
Typically, when constructing a penny floor or penny bar top, you'll want to glue the pennies directly to the substrate surface (i.e., the material you'll be applying the epoxy to) before you've applied any epoxy at all. In other words, this comes before the epoxy seal coat, which would normally be your first epoxy coating.
To adhere them, we recommend a basic Elmer's glue. Don't use super glue or hot glue, as curing epoxy resin will chemically interact with those two in disfunctional ways and can ruin the bond.
After you've glued down your pennies, you can proceed as with any traditional epoxy project, applying your seal coat and flood coat, in that order. Make sure you follow the instructions closely, and you won't have any problems.
Do the pennies need any treatment before embedding?
No, though you can clean them if you'd like. How clean the pennies are will affect how they handle light and how shiny they are within the epoxy surface. It's mostly a cosmetic decision.
Next up: Our epoxy penny project showcase
Take a look at these beautiful project photos from other UltraClear Epoxy users:
There are so many different ways to present an epoxy penny project. You can highlight the pennies by providing contrasting colors, or you can complement their color with additional copper and metallic decoration in the surrounding area.
You can of course use any type of coin, as well. Pennies are the easiest American coin to acquire, but there are plenty of others that would be just as beautiful and viable for an impressive looking work of art.
Have any questions? Want advice? Contact us!
You can contact us at UltraClear Epoxy with any questions you may have. Our epoxy experts are ready to provide answers and advice for your concerns.
If you need help planning or assistance in gathering the correct supplies for your project, please contact us via email or phone here.
You can also text-chat directly online with an epoxy expert by clicking the help button on the bottom right of your screen.
