How much pigment per gallon of Epoxy?

If you're trying to color a large epoxy resin project with pigment powders like micas, you might wonder how much mica powder you need for the perfect color saturation and finish. Mica powder is a popular additive among epoxy resin artists and woodworkers due to its unique depth, movement, and shimmery effects. However, using too little or too much mica powder can affect the final piece's transparency or special effects. So in this blog article, we'll explore how much mica powder per gallon of epoxy you need to get the perfect look.

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MEYSPRING Mystic Opal paired with cherry wood. Resin an Wood Artist: @pinesandneedle

What is Mica Powder?

Mica powder is a naturally occurring mineral that is ground into a fine powder, and it's available in a range of colors and metallic shades with a stunning shimmer. These mineral pigments are highly versatile, natural, and inert, so do not react or dissolve into any medium, making them ideal for coloring epoxy resin and enhancing the visual appeal of the finished product.

How Much Mica Powder Per Gallon of Epoxy?

Since Micas are highly pigmented mineral powders, a tiny bit will usually goes a long way when it comes to adding color and pearlescent effects to resin art projects like jewelry, resin coasters, or even small resin geodes and paintings. For epoxy resin river tables and larger resin casting projects, a more significant pigment load will be needed but still not a lot.

There is no exact ratio to color resin with mica powders. The amount of mica powder you need to add to epoxy resin depends on the effect you're trying to achieve. More translucent results need less pigment, while more opaque and saturated finishes require more mica powder to be added. 

Mica Powder to Resin Ratio - Calculator

Use the calculator below to estimate the amount of mica powder needed per gallon of epoxy by selecting the desired opacity level in your project.

As a general rule of thumb, you should use from 0.5% to 3% mica powder per gallon of epoxy by weight.

As an example per 1 gallon, here is a breakdown using a 0.5% ratio:

1 Gallon of Epoxy = 128 oz

0.5% of 128 oz = 0.64 oz

Converted into grams:  0.64 oz = 18 g of Pigment or about 2.5 tsp.

However, this can vary depending on the color and intensity of the mica powder. If you're using a lighter color mica powder, you may need to use more to achieve the desired effect. Conversely, if you're using a darker mica powder color, you may need to use less. It's essential to experiment with different ratios to find the perfect balance for your project.

River Tables or Resin & Wood Projects

When you are working on river tables or deep casting projects, the thickness of the resin layer will also affect the transparency of the final product. Usually, less mica powder is needed to achieve an opaque result in this type of project.

The greater the percentage of pigment you use, the more opaque the final color will be. Please keep in mind that adding more than 4% of pigment to some resins could affect the curing process. For epoxy river tables or resin and wood projects using up to 30L or 8 gallons of resin, here is what most of our customers do:

• For a translucent look: 1.5 teaspoons of Mica Powder per 30 Liters or 8 Gallons. This amount of pigment will allow you to see through the epoxy and still see some detail on the live edge.
• For an opaque look: 3 teaspoons of Mica Powder per 30 Liters or 8 Gallons. This amount of pigment will remove the ability to see the live edge, and you won't see through the epoxy.

How to Add Mica Powder to Epoxy Resin?

Adding mica powder to epoxy resin is a relatively simple process. First, mix the epoxy resin parts A and B according to the manufacturer's instructions and ratios. Once you have your mixed epoxy resin, you can add the mica powder. We recommend adding the mica powder slowly and mixing thoroughly after each addition. This will help you achieve a consistent finish without clumping.

Tips for Working with Mica Powder and Epoxy Resin

Here are some additional tips to help you achieve the perfect finish:

• Use high-quality mica powder. Cheaper mica powders may contain impurities that affect the final result.
• Experiment with different ratios to find the perfect balance for your project.
• Mix the mica powder thoroughly to avoid clumping.
• Apply the epoxy resin in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate protective gear.
• Allow the epoxy resin to cure completely before handling or moving the finished product.

Conclusion

Artists and woodworkers love Mica Powder as an additive in epoxy resin projects because it has a stunning shimmery effect, and a little bit goes a long way. The amount of mica powder you need for a perfect finish depends on the effect you're trying to achieve. As a general rule of thumb, use about 0.5-3% mica powder per gallon of epoxy. Remember to experiment with different ratios and mix the mica powder thoroughly to avoid clumping.

Also, check our blog article about Epoxy Resin Safety to learn all about the required PPE and working space recommendations.

Can't wait to see what you create! If you try our micas to color your epoxy resin adventures, don't forget to tag us @meypring or use the hashtag #meyspringpigments so we can see your creations.