Getting a pop of colour into clear resin always feels a bit like kitchen wizardry. Many have asked if it’s possible to use common acrylic paint to liven up resin art, instead of hunting down expensive specialty pigments. I used to wonder, too, back when I saw artists pouring crystal-clear molds and wondered how they pulled off those swirling, bold colors.
Acrylic paint sits on shelves in nearly every craft shop. It’s cheap, it comes in plenty of shades, and it’s already a staple in many creative toolkits. Mixing acrylic paint into resin can unlock a whole palette with just a few drops. But there’s a bit of a balance to strike — add too much, and the resin sometimes doesn’t cure as hard or clear as hoped. Add too little, and the effect gets lost.
I’ve poured quite a few batches of resin over the years. Small projects like keychains or jewelry work well as testing grounds. Acrylic paint can cloud things up if you don’t go slow. You want no more than 5% paint to resin by volume. I found mixing it in after you combine resin and hardener, but before the chemical reaction kicks off, works best. A gentle, thorough stir helps avoid clusters of color or bubbles sneaking in.
Once in a while, I’ve run into tacky finishes or streaky pools that didn’t set right. That’s been a reminder: less is more here. Too much paint upsets the balance that resin needs to cure. A little pigment goes a long way. Careful measuring and patience seem to win every time—with experience, a sense for when the mixture looks right builds up.
People often want to experiment without spending big on specialty products. Acrylic paint brings resin projects into reach for folks starting out. It lets people play without extra shopping trips or breaking the bank. As long as you use paints without too many extra fillers or additives, the final product stays strong.
Transparency creates another challenge. If that glass-like look matters, pick translucent acrylic paints or go for very small amounts. Opaque paints give a solid burst of color but soften or block the light. For some, that’s the exact point—jewelry with creamy color, coasters with bold patterns, endless trays and ornaments.
Resin can be unforgiving. Always wear gloves and work in a space with good airflow. Acrylic paint brings fewer toxic fumes than some resin dyes, but mixing still produces a chemical reaction. I keep vinegar or hand cleaner close for mishaps, and never eat or drink where the project happens. Cured resin left for at least a day or two stays safer to handle.
Clumping or streaking comes up fast if the paint isn’t mixed well. Slow even strokes work better than a hurried whip. Temperature also plays a role—too cold, and resin thickens, making it tough to blend in color. In the summer, projects cure fast and look glossier, but getting bubbles out takes more practice. Keeping resin and paint at room temperature means fewer surprises.
For folks in a hurry, small test batches let you see how your chosen paint reacts before you commit to a big pour. If a cloudy look is all you get, switching to alcohol inks or special resin pigments offers an upgrade. Still, acrylic paint keeps things approachable — and for plenty of creative minds, that’s the freedom to dive in and discover.
