Can You Tint Epoxy Resin? 10 Things You Can (and Should) Use

Plus, what not to use if you don’t want sticky, stringy regret.

So you’ve got a beautiful blank batch of epoxy… now, how do you tint it? Should you use pigment? Paint? Nail polish? Craft glitter? Yes and no.
Let’s break down 10 proven ways to tint epoxy safely, PLUS answer the most Googled questions artists are asking (and some answers might surprise you).

Can You Use Water-Based Paint to Tint Epoxy?
Nope.
Water and epoxy are like oil and vinegar — they don’t mix. Water-based paints can cause stringing, cloudiness, and failed cures. Skip it.

Here Are 10 Safe & Stunning Ways to Tint Epoxy Resin:

1. ColorFlex Pigment Drops
These are professional-grade, highly concentrated colorants designed specifically for epoxy.

• No bubbling

• Mixes smooth

• Works with Artistry Epoxy

• Available in bold and pastel shades
  Bonus: A few drops go a long way.
  [Shop ColorFlex Pigments]

2. ColorFlex Mica Powders
Mica is the OG of resin tinting. These ultra-fine powders give you metallic shimmer, pearlescent glow, and dimensional color.

• Great for ocean waves, geodes, and tumblers

• Blends beautifully

• Layer for dreamy effects

3. Nova Shimmer Inks
Our alcohol-based shimmer inks are perfect for creating dreamy swirls, cells, and color-shift finishes.

• High pigment load

• Great for petri dish pours, coasters, etc.

• Mix or drop directly into resin for wild effects

4. Resin-Safe Alcohol Inks
Yes — but make sure they’re labeled resin-compatible. Alcohol inks create rich, translucent tints or psychedelic effects.
Use sparingly — too much can affect curing.

5. Resin Dyes (Solvent-Based)
These are liquid colorants formulated for deep tinting without compromising cure time.

• Great for bold, transparent color

• Safe for use with most epoxies
  Not the same as food dye or water-based ink!

6. Eye Shadow (Pressed or Loose Pigment)
Yes, really! If you’re in a pinch, mica-based eye shadows can be crushed and added to epoxy.
Tip: Use highly pigmented formulas with minimal fillers. Test before you commit.

7. Nail Polish
Yes — in small amounts. Nail polish is resin-safe because it’s solvent-based, but it can impact clarity.
Use for swirls or marbling, not full tinting.

8. Oil-Based Artist Paints
These are safe in very small quantities. Oil paints can color resin without the clouding that water-based paints cause.
Best for muted tones or earthy color palettes.

9. Resin-Compatible Acrylic Inks
Not to be confused with craft paint. These are fluid acrylics that are sometimes designed to work with epoxy.
Check the label first — “resin-compatible” is key.

10. Glitter + Iridescent Additives
Okay — technically not a “tint,” but they transform your color like magic.

• Fine glitter = more sparkle, less texture

• Combine with pigment drops or mica for layered color

Can I Use Food Coloring in Epoxy?
Nope.
Water-based. Will mess with curing. May foam.

Can I Use Regular Craft Paint or Apple Barrel Paint in Resin?
Still no.
These are not designed for resin and will often cause stringing, clumping, or soft cures.

Can I Mix Multiple Colorants?
Yes!
Try layering mica + pigment drops + shimmer ink for wild effects. Just mix your resin first, then add color. Don’t overload.

What Not to Use to Tint Epoxy Resin:

• Water-based acrylic paint

• Tempera paint

• Food coloring

• Inkjet printer ink

• Anything labeled “washable”

• Too much of anything — even good stuff!

Final Thoughts: Use the Right Tools to Get the Right Color
Tinting epoxy is all about science and balance. Use the right pigments, mix gently, and always test new combos.

Want consistent, stunning results? Stick with the good stuff:
[Shop ColorFlex Pigments & Micas]
[Explore Nova Shimmer Inks]
[Get Artistry Epoxy for Clear, Bubble-Free Pours]

Your art deserves more than muddy pours and Pinterest fails. Let’s make your resin shine.