Epoxy & Pigment

Mica powder pigments are finely ground mineral particles that produce metallic, pearlescent shimmer effects and mix easily into epoxy without affecting the cure. Alcohol inks are liquid dyes that produce transparent, jewel-toned color but can sometimes interfere with the epoxy cure at high concentrations. For dramatic metallic river tables and countertops, mica powders like Eye Candy Mica Powder are the more reliable choice.

A general guideline is 2–6% pigment by weight of the total epoxy mix — adding more than 6% can interfere with the chemical cure and result in a soft or sticky finish. Start on the lower end and test a small sample batch before your full pour. Opaque colorants typically achieve full coverage at lower loading percentages than transparent dyes.

Yes — Mixol Universal Tints are formulated to be compatible with a wide range of mediums including latex paint, oil-based paint, lacquer, varnish, and epoxy resin. This universality makes them one of the most versatile colorants in a woodworking shop.

Quality pigments used at recommended levels (typically under 6% by weight) will not meaningfully affect cure time or mechanical strength. Avoid adding too much colorant or using pigments that contain water or alcohol solvents, as these can inhibit the epoxy cure. Always follow the resin manufacturer's guidelines for compatible additives.

For the river channel of a live-edge river table, a slow-cure deep pour epoxy is essential to prevent cracking from exothermic heat buildup in thick sections. MAS Deep Pour Epoxy or MAS Deep Pour X are designed for thick pours. Use a pigmented epoxy from our Epoxy & Resin collection to complete the project.

Pour your base colored epoxy into the mold first, then drizzle or dot a second contrasting color on top. Use a stir stick or skewer to drag and swirl the colors together with a few light passes — avoid over-mixing or the colors will blend into mud. Pour while the epoxy is still in the low-viscosity phase for the best swirl movement.

Mica powders are fine particulates that can become airborne during measuring and mixing, and prolonged inhalation of any fine dust is not advisable. Wear a dust mask or N95 respirator when measuring and mixing dry pigments. Once fully incorporated into liquid epoxy, the pigments are encapsulated and no longer airborne. Always use appropriate PPE — visit our Wood Finish & PPE section for safety supplies.

Mica powders are not soluble and will not dissolve into water-based stains or dyes — they work only in resin-based mediums. Mixol tints, however, are formulated for broader compatibility and can be added to many water-based and oil-based finishing products. For colouring wood directly, our Wood Dyes are the correct product.

For small pours, mixing cups with graduated marks and disposable stir sticks are sufficient. For large-volume work like full river table pours, a paddle mixer on a drill ensures thorough, consistent blending. Visit our Molds & Accessories for Epoxy collection for the complete toolkit.

Yes — we stock the 15-Piece Mixol Universal Tint and Metallic Effect Set, which includes both standard colors and metallic tones in a single kit. The Eye Candy Mica Powder range also offers gold, silver, bronze, and pearl effects ideal for decorative pours and river table projects.