When planning an epoxy project, there are several factors to take into account. One important decision is how you will customize your epoxy finish.

Understanding your customization options is essential, as many people are unaware of the various ways to personalize an epoxy project. Epoxy's ability to bond with almost any surface and adapt to different shapes enables a wide range of customization possibilities.

In this article, we will explore various methods to customize an epoxy finish, helping you incorporate your unique creative ideas into your project.

A Beginner-Friendly Guide to Epoxy Customization

There are several common techniques to personalize an epoxy finish. These methods range from simple to more detailed, but all are achievable for beginners by carefully following the instructions.

In this article, we will discuss the following methods:

• Coloring: Adding color to the epoxy resin before it cures.
• Embedding: Incorporating small objects into the epoxy finish.
• Layering: Applying multiple layers of epoxy to create depth.
• Texturing: Altering the epoxy surface to add physical texture.
• Sanding: Using abrasive methods to change the finish from glossy to frosted or matte.

Let's go over each of these methods one by one.

Method #1: Adding Colorants to Epoxy

Coloring epoxy is a common practice among users. While epoxy is known for its clear finish, it also accommodates various colorants to create customized appearances.

Typically, colorants are mixed into the resin during the mixing phase before application. However, different approaches may be necessary depending on the project requirements.

We will explore three types of colorants, each offering a unique effect on the epoxy resin:

• Epoxy Powder Pigments
• Epoxy Resin Dyes
• Alcohol Inks

Colorant Type #1: Epoxy Powder Pigments

Epoxy powder pigments are created by mining and grinding minerals into a fine powder. These pigments often consist of a blend of multiple powdered minerals to achieve various effects. They are mixed into the epoxy during the preparation phase.

What Are Epoxy Powder Pigments Made Of?

Most epoxy powder pigments use a mica-powder base. Mica minerals are known for their subtle sheen, which adds a gentle shimmer to the epoxy. While mica comes in a range of colors, it does not cover the entire spectrum. To expand color options, additional minerals are often mixed in. In cases where the original mineral is toxic or rare, synthetic alternatives may be used, such as with lapis lazuli.

How Do Epoxy Powder Pigments Affect the Look of Epoxy?

Epoxy powder pigments not only add color but also create a multi-toned appearance with slight variations in shade. They make the epoxy more opaque compared to other colorants used in the same quantity, which is ideal when you prefer the epoxy to be the main focus rather than the underlying material. Mica-based pigments provide a shimmering effect, causing the epoxy to reflect light subtly.

Where Do You Get Epoxy Powder Pigments?

We carry the complete range of Pigmently Epoxy Pigments in our store.

Colorant Type #2: Epoxy Resin Dyes

Epoxy resin dyes are primarily synthetic and come in liquid form, distinguishing them from powder pigments. They are added to the epoxy during the mixing process and distribute evenly when properly stirred.

How Do Resin Dyes Affect the Look of Epoxy?

Resin dyes create a uniform color throughout the epoxy mixture. They are generally more translucent than powder pigments, but increasing the amount can make the epoxy more opaque. Resin dyes are highly concentrated, so only a small quantity is needed to achieve the desired color. Using less results in a lighter, more transparent finish, while adding more deepens the color and increases opacity.

Where Do You Get Resin Dyes?

We offer a complete selection of Pigmently Resin Dyes in our store.

 

Colorant Type #3: Alcohol Inks

Alcohol inks are a less commonly used colorant due to their distinctive way of dispersing within epoxy resin. Instead of blending evenly, alcohol inks create unique shapes and patterns, adding an artistic flair to the epoxy finish.

Because of their ability to form eye-catching designs, alcohol inks are primarily favored for resin art projects rather than traditional applications like table tops or bar tops.

Where to Purchase Alcohol Inks

Although we do not carry alcohol inks in our store, they are widely available at arts and crafts retailers, as well as in supermarkets and hobby shops.

Method #2: Embedding Objects in Your Epoxy

Incorporating small items into an epoxy finish is a favored method for adding unique and personalized touches to your epoxy projects.

What Can You Embed in Epoxy?

Almost any small object that fits within your project can be embedded in epoxy resin. Common examples include:

• Everyday Items: Pennies, bottle caps, wine corks, and similar objects.
• Memorabilia: Paper items like tickets, photos, and handwritten notes.
• Miniatures: Small figurines, toys, and other decorative icons.
• Natural Elements: Clean, dried items such as rocks, pebbles, and seashells.
• Dehydrated Plants and Produce: Dried flowers, fruits, and other organic materials.

Items to Avoid:

• Moisture-Rich Objects: Any items containing moisture, including liquids, fresh flowers, fruits, and vegetables, unless they are thoroughly dehydrated. Moisture can interfere with the curing process and damage the epoxy finish.

How to Embed Objects in Epoxy

There are several techniques to embed objects in epoxy resin effectively. The most common method involves attaching the objects to the surface of your project using a clear-drying adhesive, such as standard glue (avoid using super glue or hot glue). Once the adhesive has fully dried and the objects are securely in place, you can apply the epoxy resin over the area.

Check out our embedding guide for more information.

Where to Find Items for Embedding

You can find suitable objects for embedding virtually anywhere. Most items are acceptable as long as they fit within the dimensions of your project and are free from moisture.

Consider repurposing everyday objects, collecting natural items, or gathering decorative pieces from craft stores to enhance your epoxy creations.

Method #3: Layering Your Epoxy

Epoxy can be applied in multiple layers, with each layer varying in thickness based on the type of epoxy used. For example, Primaloc Bar & Table Top Epoxy allows for layers up to 1/8 inch thick, while Primaloc Deep Pour Epoxy can handle layers up to 2 inches.

Each layer can be customized individually. For instance, you might apply one layer in blue and another in clear or orange. This method creates depth and texture, enhancing the overall appearance of the epoxy finish.

Learn more about epoxy layer depth here.

How to Apply Epoxy in Multiple Layers

Applying epoxy in layers involves the following steps:

1. Initial Layer: Pour the first layer of epoxy and allow it to partially cure.
2. Subsequent Layers: Once the initial layer has partially cured, apply the next layer. If adding layers over fully cured epoxy, lightly sand the surface to ensure proper adhesion for the new coat.
3. Customization: Customize each layer as desired, such as adding different colors or embedding objects.
4. Final Top Coat: After all desired layers are applied, finish with a clear top coat to seal and protect the entire surface.

Note: Layers do not need to be stacked directly on top of one another. Many users create distinct sections within the epoxy area and pour different epoxy batches into each section. A final clear top coat is then applied to unify the layers and ensure a smooth, cohesive finish.

For more detailed instructions, refer to our multiple layers guide.

Layering epoxy allows for a rich, textured finish that showcases your creativity and can even enhance the durability of your project.

Method #4: Texturing Your Epoxy Finish

Texturing modifies both the appearance and the surface feel of epoxy, resulting in unique patterns and tactile surfaces. There are several methods to achieve texture in epoxy, each requiring careful application to avoid unintended marks.

Techniques for Texturing:

• Swirling: Use a stick or similar tool to swirl different colors of epoxy together before it sets. This creates a marble-like pattern that can resemble natural stone or artistic designs.

• Brushing: Apply epoxy with a brush to create lines or other textured effects. Different brushes and strokes can produce varying levels of texture.

• Using a Heat Gun or Torch: A heat gun or torch can manipulate the epoxy after pouring. Heat helps remove air bubbles and causes the epoxy to flow and blend, forming lacing or cellular patterns. This method is also used to create resin waves in ocean-themed art.

• Dropping: Add drops of a different colored epoxy into a base layer and allow them to spread naturally or use a tool or heat to guide their movement. This technique is commonly used with alcohol inks.

• Leafing and Foiling: Place sheets of metal leaf or foil within or on top of the epoxy. This adds color and shine and can create a textured surface if applied unevenly.

Method #5: Sanding Your Epoxy Surfaces

You can employ various sanding techniques to produce different aesthetic effects in your epoxy finish. After your epoxy has cured, sand certain areas more than others to create a wavy or textured surface. Using higher grit sandpaper can selectively smooth areas or achieve a matte finish on the epoxy coating.

Sanding modifies both the appearance and the surface feel of epoxy, resulting in unique patterns and tactile surfaces. Some users also opt to polish their epoxy finish afterward for a strong sheen.

Primaloc Epoxy: Premium Epoxy for Premium Results

With our premium Bar & Table Top Epoxy and our Deep Pour Epoxy, Primaloc gets the job done. Our epoxy resins are premium-grade, with high performance in every category, including:

• Unmatched Strength: A Primaloc finish won't buckle, even under high pressure.
• Long-Lasting Resilience: Primaloc epoxy lasts for many years with minimal care, and can endure high-traffic environments with ease.
• A Crystal-Clear Coating: With its pristine, transparent appearance, looking at a cured Primaloc coating is like peering through a window.

Epoxy resin can be beautiful, strong, and long-lasting—which is why you shouldn't compromise on quality. With Primaloc Epoxy Resin, you get the ultimate finish in durability and visual appeal.

Protect your surfaces by giving them a rock-solid epoxy finish. Choose strong. Choose reliable. Choose Primaloc.