The Best Color Pigment For Epoxy Resin

Buying Guide

Epoxy resin is a versatile product for crafting (and other household applications) because it comes as a clear liquid adhesive that can be shaped and molded. Once a hardener is added, it then becomes solid. This makes it perfect for creating items like jewelry, ornaments, coasters, and other attractive decorative items.

Medium- and high-viscosity epoxies have consistencies like thick honey and are suitable for coating surfaces. You can use them to make many kinds of resin art. For the most part, epoxy resins are colorless and transparent, and you have to take safety precautions when working with them.

Artists and crafters who use epoxy resins usually like to add color to create attractive designs within the medium. Never use paints that contain water, though, as this could prevent the resin from curing or cause other problems.

The two main kinds of coloring agents you can use for epoxy resins are liquid-form color concentrates and powdered color pigments. You can also use some of these to create soap, makeup and other small goods.

Always opt for high-quality products because they have the most vibrant colors, are easiest to blend and last the longest. Some feature translucent, pearlescent and other reflective finishes that make your pieces look exciting and luminous. Before adding color, though, you will have to mix the resin.

Pour a small amount of the color pigment into the mixture before it hardens, and stir with a mixing stick. Only add a small amount at a time because you can always drop in a bit more; once the color is wrong or too dark, you may have to start over. Follow the package directions for mixing and use your judgment for the color; both novices and pros like to experiment here, and the results vary.

• Some people have reactions to resin. Wear rubber gloves and eye protection to protect yourself when working with these materials.
• Only use pigments and paints designed for epoxy resin; other products can damage your work.
• You don’t need to add a ton of liquid or powder to get the color you want. Start with just a little bit and go from there, especially with highly pigmented colors.
• The powder can be a bit messier to work with, so you will want to move more slowly.
• To make resin art, you don’t just need the colors, of course. You’ll have to get the resin itself, plus a hardener, and you can often find these offered together in kits.  Resins can also harden when exposed to UV light.