How to Use Resin Pigments: A Beginner's Guide to Colour

by Bronwen Morris

Why Pigments Are the Heart of Resin Art

If you've ever wondered how resin artists achieve those deep, jewel-like colours or dreamy ocean gradients, the answer is almost always high-quality pigments. Pigments are what transform clear resin into a work of art — and choosing the right ones (and knowing how to use them) makes all the difference.

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about using resin pigments as a beginner, from mixing ratios to layering techniques.

What Are Resin Pigments?

Resin pigments are concentrated colourants specifically formulated to mix into epoxy resin. Unlike acrylic paints (which contain water and can affect resin curing), quality resin pigments are designed to blend smoothly without compromising the chemical reaction that makes resin harden.

Our Signature Pigments are specially formulated for resin art — they're highly concentrated, UV-resistant, and produce vibrant, consistent colour every time.

How Much Pigment Should You Use?

This is the most common question beginners ask — and the answer depends on the effect you're going for:

  • Translucent/tinted effect: Use 1–3% pigment by weight of your resin mixture. This lets light pass through for a stained-glass look.
  • Semi-opaque: Use 3–6% for richer colour that still has some depth.
  • Fully opaque: Use 6–10% for solid, bold colour coverage.

Tip: Always measure by weight using a digital scale for consistent results. Eyeballing pigment amounts is one of the most common beginner mistakes!

Step-by-Step: Mixing Pigments into Resin

  1. Mix your resin and hardener first — follow the manufacturer's ratio exactly and stir thoroughly for 3–5 minutes.
  2. Divide your resin into separate cups if you're using multiple colours.
  3. Add pigment to each cup and stir gently but thoroughly. Avoid whipping air into the mixture.
  4. Check the colour — pigments often look darker in the cup than they will in the final cured piece. Do a small test pour if you're unsure.
  5. Pour and manipulate — use a heat gun or torch to pop bubbles and encourage colour movement.

Colour Theory for Resin Artists

Understanding basic colour theory will take your resin art to the next level:

  • Analogous colours (colours next to each other on the colour wheel, like blue, teal, and green) blend beautifully in resin and create natural-looking gradients — perfect for ocean-themed pieces.
  • Complementary colours (opposites on the wheel, like blue and orange) create striking contrast but can turn muddy if over-mixed.
  • Neutrals — white, black, and gold — are essential for adding depth, highlights, and a premium finish.

Layering Colours for Depth

One of the most beautiful effects in resin art comes from layering colours in multiple pours. Here's how:

  1. Pour your first layer and allow it to reach a gel stage (tacky but not fully cured — usually 4–8 hours depending on your resin brand).
  2. Pour your second colour on top. Because the first layer is still slightly tacky, the colours will bond without fully blending.
  3. Repeat for as many layers as you like, building up depth and dimension.

This technique works beautifully for ocean clock designs — you can see it in action in our Signature Ocean Clock pieces, where deep navy blues give way to turquoise shallows.

Common Pigment Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

  • Using too much pigment: Over-pigmenting can inhibit curing and leave a sticky surface. Stick to the recommended ratios.
  • Using craft paint instead of resin pigment: Acrylic or craft paints contain water, which can cause resin to cure unevenly or remain tacky.
  • Not stirring thoroughly: Streaky colour usually means the pigment wasn't fully incorporated. Stir slowly and scrape the sides and bottom of your cup.
  • Ignoring UV stability: Some cheap pigments will fade over time. Our Signature Pigments are UV-resistant, so your colours stay vibrant for years.

Ready to Start?

The best way to learn resin pigments is to experiment! Start with a small test piece using two or three colours, get comfortable with your mixing ratios, and then build up to more complex pours.

If you're looking for pigments that deliver consistent, professional results, our Signature Pigments are the perfect starting point. They're what we use in every piece we create here at Creative Art by Bron.

Have questions? Drop them in the comments below — we'd love to help you on your resin art journey!

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