Pigmento

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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