Everything You Need to Know About Mica Powders and Epoxy Resin

Welcome to the Rolio educational library

As our mica powders and pigments have such a variety of applications, we are constantly building out questions and answers on how to use Mica Powders and pigments in all of your DIY and Professional projects.

Welcome to your ultimate guide for mica powders and epoxy resin! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned creator, this page answers all your questions about using mica powders for stunning epoxy resin projects. Learn how to mix mica powders with resin, achieve vibrant colors, and create pearlescent effects for art, crafts, countertops, and more. Discover tips for choosing the right shades, troubleshooting common issues, and exploring creative techniques. Safe, versatile, and easy to use, mica powders are a must-have for any resin enthusiast. Dive in and find all the answers you need to make your next project shine!

Epoxy resin is a versatile two-component system composed of resin and hardener. When mixed, it cures into a durable, glossy, and often crystal-clear finish. It’s commonly used for art projects, crafts, countertops, river tables, and even industrial applications.
When mixed into epoxy resin, mica powder disperses evenly to create vibrant, metallic, or pearlescent effects. It provides depth and color while maintaining the resin’s natural transparency or opacity based on the desired result.

Mica powder is a finely milled, naturally occurring mineral pigment that offers shimmering, pearlescent effects. Available in a wide range of colors and finishes, it’s perfect for enhancing epoxy resin and is widely used in cosmetics, soaps, arts and crafts.
- Adds vibrant colors and shimmering effects.
- Enhances visual depth and texture.
- Easy to blend and customize.
- Compatible with various resin applications.

- Metallic: Offers bold, reflective finishes.
- Pearlescent: Provides subtle, elegant shimmer.
- Iridescent/Color-Shift: Shifts between colors depending on light and angle.
- Neon/Glow: Bright, eye-catching pigments, some of which glow in the dark.
Look for powders that are:
- Fine-grained and smooth.
- Highly pigmented for vibrant color.
- Safe and non-toxic (certified).
- Suitable for the intended application (e.g., resin or crafts).
All Rolio Products meet the above standards.

Yes, mica powder can mimic natural stone, metallic finishes, or even create holographic effects when layered with other additives.
It depends on the quantity used. A small amount keeps resin transparent, while more powder creates an opaque or metallic finish.

1. Measure the resin and hardener as per instructions.
2. Mix the two components thoroughly.
3. Add mica powder gradually, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Silicone mixing sticks (to avoid air bubbles).
- Measuring cups for precise ratios.
- A heat gun or torch to remove surface bubbles.

Yes, blending mica powders can create custom colors or effects like gradients and swirls. It is common to add black or white mica powders to any other colors to lighten or darken to create custom colored mica powders!
A general guideline is 2-5% mica powder by the weight of resin. Start small and adjust based on the opacity and vibrancy you want.

It really depends on the project, and Rolio's mica pigments are highly concentrated so a little bit goes a long way. Using an amount of mica pigment equal to roughly 0.5% to 3% the total volume of epoxy is recommended. That means for a gallon of resin, you can use anywhere from 18 to 108 grams of pigment.As an easy starting point, start out small with about 16 grams per gallon and see how it looks. If it is too thin, add more. Remember, in a concentrated mixture, the epoxy might look darker colored than it will appear when you pour it, so keep that in mind.
To achieve optimal results in small volume resin projects, it is recommended to incorporate 1 gram of mica powder for every 1-5 ounces of epoxy. It is worth noting that 1 gram is approximately equivalent to one-quarter teaspoon. By using a 1-to-1 ratio, you will obtain a darker and more opaque color, whereas a 1-to-5 ratio will yield a more transparent appearance.It is important to consider that thinner resin castings, such as delicate resin jewelry, usually necessitate a greater amount of mica powder to attain a vibrant and pearlescent shine.
For Larger Projects such as an Epoxy River Table see the below:For a translucent look, we recommend adding 6 grams or 1.5 teaspoons per 30 Liters or 8 Gallons. This amount will allow you to see through the epoxy and still see some detail on the live edge.For an opaque look: 12 grams or 3 teaspoons per 30 Liters or 8 Gallons. This amount will remove the ability to see the live edge, and you won't see through the epoxy. We recommend starting with a little bit of pigment and adding more until getting the results you are looking to achieve.

Epoxy & Pigment Ratio Calculators - Accurate Resin Mix & Pigment Ratios

Epoxy Resin Calculator

Use this epoxy resin calculator to determine the exact amount of resin and hardener needed for your project.

Length (inches): Width (inches): Thickness (inches): Mix Ratio:

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Pigment Ratio Calculator

Find the perfect amount of mica powder or pigment paste for your epoxy resin.

Total Epoxy Resin Select Epoxy Unit Select Pigment Type

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Mica Powder Starter Kits

Rolio's Starter Mica Powder Sets and Epoxy Resin are perfect for beginners or experienced artists.

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Mica Powder Original 24 Colors Set - 10g Jars $24.83 USD

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Pearl White Mica Powder - color variant: White

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Graphite Black Mica Powder From $12.99 USD

Graphite Black Mica Powder - color variant: Black

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Scarlet Mica Powder From $12.99 USD

Scarlet Mica Powder - color variant: Red

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- Use multiple colored resin batches in the same pour.
- Pour them simultaneously into the mold and swirl with a stick for marbled patterns.
Yes! Pour layers of different mica-colored resin, allowing each to partially cure for depth and a 3D look.

Absolutely! Blues and whites create water effects, while sandy tones mimic beaches. Add waves using a heat gun or torch. Using Mica powder for the ocean and sand effects is common. It is also recommended to us White Pigment Paste for the waves, to create lacing and realistic wave effects!
Blend two or more colors by layering or gently mixing them at the edges for a seamless gradient.

- Overmixing or adding excessive powder.
- Ensure a proper resin-to-hardener ratio to prevent curing issues.
***There is a chance that the Epoxy Resin is going bad. The shelf life for epoxy resin is around 18 months. It is very important for epoxy resin to be stored in a temperature controlled environment, as it can start to crystalize and go bad quicker if exposed to extreme cold and hot temperature fluxuations.
Yes, especially in thinner resin mixtures. To prevent this:
- Use a thicker resin formula.
- Pour in layers and monitor for settling.
- Make sure you mix the mica powder thoroughly in the epoxy resin before pouring.

- Stir thoroughly but gently to fully dissolve the powder. (3-5 minutes is necessary for solid mixing)
- For certain mica powders that still seem to clump, it is recommended to mix the pigment ratio intended with some isopropyl to break down pigment build up before mixing.
- Consider the base color of your resin (clear or tinted).
- Use a UV stabilizer or UV-resistant resin to maintain vibrancy.

Yes, as long as it’s labeled non-toxic and safe for your specific application. Wear a mask to avoid inhaling fine particles.
All Rolio Products are non-toxic.
Mica powder is generally safe but may cause irritation if it comes into contact with sensitive areas. Handle carefully.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Wear gloves and a respirator.
- Use tools dedicated to resin to avoid cross-contamination.
- Silicon Mats and Tools are great to work with to ensure easy cleanup when working with epoxy resin.

Only if both the resin and mica powder are explicitly labeled as food-safe. Always check product certifications.
Rolio Mica Powders and Table Top Epoxy Resin are both labeled as food-safe.
While mica powder doesn’t expire, its color and quality can degrade if exposed to moisture or light over long periods.

- Keep in airtight containers.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture.
Yes! Mica powder and glitter can be mixed to add sparkle and depth to your projects.

Yes, mica powder is perfect for:
- Soap making (adds color and shimmer).
- Candle coloring.
- Nail art and makeup (safe, cosmetic-grade powders only).
- Slime, Bath Bombs and DIY projects for kids.
- Paint Additive and Color Tinting
- Automotive Paint
Rolio mica powders are ethically sourced and eco-friendly.

Yes, Rolio mica powders work well in UV resin, but ensure the resin fully cures under the UV light source and that the correct ratio of mica powder is added.
Yes! All Rolio Mica Powders are Vegan.