How much pigment is needed to colour the resin?
Find your ideal pigment ratio for brilliant resin results
Understanding exactly how much pigment to add to your resin is essential for achieving the precise colour effects you want—whether that’s a deep, opaque shade for a table, a subtle translucent tint for decorative pieces, or a shimmering metallic finish for standout art. This page guides resin artists, DIYers, and crafters in selecting the right pigment ratios and types for vivid and reliable results, whatever your epoxy project.
Comparing Pigment Types and Dosages for Resin Colouring
The ideal pigment amount for colouring epoxy resin depends on your choice of pigment and the desired finish. Highly concentrated liquid colourants are tailor-made for deep, even tints, requiring very little product to achieve strong results. For metallic, swirling, or pearlescent effects, powder pigments such as mica offer another level of dimension with their own usage guidelines. Both options have their own coverage recommendations, drying characteristics, and visual impacts. It is crucial never to exceed the manufacturer’s recommended pigment ratio—generally not more than 5% of the total mixed resin by weight—to ensure proper resin curing and maintain clarity or intensity.
Visual Impact of Pigment Dosage
See how pigment concentration transforms your resin project—from subtle translucency with just a drop, to vivid, solid colour at higher percentages. Use test panels or small sample pours to observe the effect before commencing your main project. Light, pastel shades require very little pigment, while deep or metallic colours use a higher but controlled amount for dramatic effect.
“Colourfun” – Liquid Epoxy Resin Colourant 25-100ml – High coverage
The “Colourfun” – Liquid Epoxy Resin Colourant 25-100ml – High coverage range provides intense, highly concentrated pigments tailored for all resin art and casting projects. A few drops are sufficient for translucent, stained-glass effects, while up to 5% pigment ensures a solid, bold hue. Easy to blend, these colourants offer both convenience and economy—one 25ml bottle can tint as much as 2–3kg of resin. Thanks to the strong pigment load, your finished resin maintains even coverage without compromising clarity or working properties.
“Sahara” – Mica Powder Pigment Metallic Motion Effect 10g / 100g
If you prefer metallic or dimensional colour, “Sahara” – Mica Powder Pigment Metallic Motion Effect 10g / 100g delivers striking 3D effects with deep swirls and a rich pearlescent sheen. Usage: Achieve intense, saturated colour with just 5–8g per 1kg of resin. Formulated for compatibility with all transparent resins, Sahara pigments ensure stable, lightfast, and vibrant results that retain their brilliance even as the resin cures. They’re especially popular for glazing, river table highlights, and decorative castings for truly bespoke looks.
“EpoxyTable 5-Five” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables and Large Projects – Up to 5cm
For large, deep pour projects like resin tables, “EpoxyTable 5-Five” – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables and Large Projects – Up to 5cm is optimised to handle both volume and colour. With its low exothermic reaction, it allows pour depths up to 5cm, making it perfect for river tables and casting intricate, coloured centrepieces. The product typically comes with a free pigment sample, so you can experiment with the right colour concentration. Always begin with a low pigment dosage (as per bottle instructions) to prevent any impact on curing or final finish—especially with bold or deep tones.
“Colourfun Set” – Liquid Epoxy Resin Colourant Set for Solid Colour Effects
The “Colourfun Set” – Liquid Epoxy Resin Colourant Set for Solid Colour Effects offers nine vivid, mixable pastes for everything from crystal-clear washes to fully opaque coverage. High coverage means a small quantity of paste goes a long way, making it perfect for large volume castings, jewellery, and intense art pours. Easily blend colours for unique shades, always keeping within the recommended pigment-to-resin percentage for reliable curing and stable colour results.
Tips for Perfect Pigment Ratios and Colour Effects
Always start with a conservative pigment amount and build up gradually—resin can quickly become opaque or over-saturated, which may affect curing or clarity. For translucent effects, use 1% pigment (by weight) or less; for fully opaque finishes, 3–5% is sufficient for most concentrates. Avoid exceeding maximum pigment ratios to prevent incomplete hardening or cloudy results. For unique shades (such as greys), combine black and white liquid colourants, or add a touch of grey-toned mica for metallic depths. Always mix thoroughly to prevent streaks or uneven colour, and perform small test pours when trying new blends or brands.
Colouring Techniques for Every Resin Project
Blending pigments properly produces smooth, even results for anything from river tables to fine art pieces. Combine different pigment types—such as liquid and mica—for striking, layered designs. Browse the Dyes and Pigments range for more inspiration and technical tips tailored to your project.
"Colourfun" – Liquid Epoxy Resin Colourant 25-100ml – High coveragePrice range: £3.95 through £10.45Colourfun liquid colourant offers intense pigments with high coverage for varied colour effects in resin projects.
"Sahara" – Mica Powder Pigment Metallic Motion Effect 10g / 100gPrice range: £3.95 through £12.45Sahara Mica Powder pigment creates a metallic motion effect with intense colour, suitable for glazing and transparent resin systems.
"EpoxyTable 5-Five" – Deep Pour Epoxy Resin for Tables and Large Projects – Up to 5cmPrice range: £17.95 through £1,154.95"EpoxyTable 5-Five" is designed for deep pouring projects like tables, providing a clear, bubble-free finish with UV resistance and scratchproof…
"Colourfun Set" – Liquid Epoxy Resin Colourant Set for Solid Colour EffectsPrice range: £14.45 through £50.95The Colourfun Set contains concentrated colouring pastes for translucent to opaque effects in epoxy resin projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use liquid or powder pigments for resin?
Liquid pigments are best for strong, even colour coverage. Powder pigments create metallic or special effects. Choose based on your desired finish.
What happens if you add too much pigment to resin?
Excess pigment can weaken curing, create cloudy or sticky results, and reduce clarity. Always follow the recommended dosage.
How much liquid pigment should I use in epoxy resin?
Use between 1% for translucent effects and up to 5% for solid colour. Start low and increase gradually until the desired shade is achieved.
How much Sahara mica powder pigment is needed per kilo of resin?
Typically, 5–8 grams of Sahara mica powder per 1kg resin delivers rich, metallic colour effects without interfering with curing.
How do I achieve opaque versus translucent effects in resin?
Use a smaller pigment ratio (around 1%) for translucent effects and a higher ratio (3–5%) for full opacity. Mix thoroughly for uniformity.
Can I mix different resin pigment types or colours?
Yes, you can mix colours and types such as liquid and mica for custom effects. Always test small batches for compatibility.
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