Wood Stain Pigments & Mica Powder for Epoxy and Wood Projects

Pigments & Wood Stain Colorants for Epoxy, Paint & Finishing

The right pigment transforms a finished piece from ordinary to striking. This collection includes both mica-based powdered pigments for epoxy coloring and General Finishes water-based pigmented stains for direct application to bare or prepared wood surfaces. Whether you're coloring a live-edge river table or refreshing a cabinet finish, the right colorant makes the difference between a bland surface and a memorable one.

General Finishes water-based pigmented stains offer the even, opaque color of a pigment-based product with the ease and cleanup of a water-based system. Options range from the bleached, weathered look of Whitewash to the dramatic depth of Black, with mid-range tones including Walnut, Hickory, and Antique Oak.

For accurate, consistent results on bare wood, the General Finishes Pre-Stain Conditioner equalizes absorption across the surface and prevents blotching, while the Dry Time Extender gives you more working time to brush out and blend the stain before it sets.

For epoxy colorants, mica pigment powders are available separately from the stain products in this collection. Mica is a naturally occurring mineral with exceptional light-reflective properties; when suspended in clear epoxy it produces metallic, pearlescent, and jewel-tone effects that are impossible to achieve with liquid dyes alone.

Pigment Tips for Epoxy River Tables & Resin Work

Mica pigments do not dissolve in epoxy—they remain suspended as fine reflective particles. Thorough mixing is essential to distribute color evenly. Start with a small amount and add more gradually until the desired opacity and color depth are achieved. Translucent effects use less pigment; fully opaque pours require more. A water-based dye stain can be used alongside pigmented stains for a layered, multi-tone look on wood surfaces.

Non-toxic mica pigments suitable for epoxy, candle making, and paint
Water-based pigmented stains in a wide range of colors
Pre-stain conditioner prevents blotching on porous or tight-grained species
Compatible dry time extender for brush-out and blending

Frequently Asked Questions

What is mica pigment and how is it used in woodworking?

Mica pigment is a finely ground natural mineral powder with high light reflectivity. In woodworking it is primarily mixed into clear epoxy resin to create metallic, pearlescent, or jewel-tone effects in river table pours, inlays, and decorative resin work. It can also be added to paint, candle wax, and other substrates.

Does mica pigment dissolve in epoxy?

No. Mica pigment does not dissolve—it remains suspended as fine reflective particles within the epoxy. Thorough, sustained mixing is required to distribute the pigment evenly before pouring, and any unmixed pigment will settle rather than blend into the resin.

What is the difference between a pigmented stain and a dye stain?

Pigmented stains contain solid color particles that coat the surface and lodge in pores, providing more uniform, opaque color with less grain penetration. Dye stains contain molecules that chemically bond with the wood fibers, producing more transparent color that enhances rather than obscures the grain. The General Finishes Water-Based Dye Stain and the pigmented stain line complement each other for layered finishing effects.

Do I need a pre-stain conditioner before applying pigmented stain?

On porous or blotch-prone woods like pine, cherry, and birch, the General Finishes Pre-Stain Conditioner equalizes surface absorption to prevent uneven color uptake. On denser, more uniform hardwoods it is less critical but still beneficial for achieving consistent results.

What colors are available in General Finishes water-based pigmented stains?

The collection includes Whitewash, Black, Hickory, Black Cherry, Antique Oak, Walnut, Graphite, Espresso, Cabernet, and Brown Mahogany, among others. See the full pigment collection for current color availability.

Are mica pigments food safe?

Mica pigments are generally considered non-toxic, but food safety depends on the completed product's cure state and the specific formulation of both the pigment and the epoxy it is mixed into. For food-contact surfaces like serving boards, consult the epoxy manufacturer's food-safety guidance and use only products certified as food-safe once fully cured.

What does the General Finishes Dry Time Extender do?

The Dry Time Extender slows the open time of General Finishes water-based products, giving woodworkers more time to brush out stains and topcoats and blend wet edges before the finish begins to set. It is particularly useful on large surfaces or in warm, dry conditions where water-based products flash off quickly.

Can I mix General Finishes pigmented stain colors together?

General Finishes water-based pigmented stains from the same product line can generally be intermixed to create custom colors. Always test any mixture on scrap or a hidden area of the workpiece before committing to a large surface, as results vary by wood species and surface condition.

Does Infinity Tools ship pigment and stain products?

Yes. Review the Infinity Tools shipping policies for current rates and any applicable shipping restrictions for finishing products.

Where can I learn more about coloring epoxy and applying pigmented stains?

The Infinity Tools woodworking learning blog covers finishing and epoxy techniques, including guidance on pigment use, stain application, and layered finishing for professional results.

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