Trying to mix your craft resin with that half-used tube of acrylic paint on your shelf sounds like a smart way to add color. Lots of makers test this move. I’ve pulled off plenty of home projects using both products—sometimes side by side, sometimes together. Tossing acrylic paint into curing resin changes things. The final piece won't look or act exactly the same as plain colored resin poured from a bottle.
Chemically, clear epoxy cures through a reaction between resin and hardener. This process creates a hard plastic-like surface that stands up to moisture and physical wear. Acrylic paint contains water and pigment—two simple ingredients, plus a few stabilizers to keep it shelf-stable. Once acrylic paint mixes into uncured resin, the water and other additives can get in the way of the usual curing process.
In my experience, pigment made specifically for resin works more reliably. Even a small amount of acrylic paint can slow down curing, make the resin turn cloudy, or leave sticky, soft patches. Water doesn’t belong in resin chemistry. It causes small bubbles, dips in texture, and unpredictable reactions with certain colors or glitters. Crafters report resin that stays tacky for days, surfaces bending instead of snapping clean, or even bright colors turning unexpectedly dull.
There isn’t a perfect ratio for this “craft hack.” Experienced artists usually warn beginners to keep paint content under 10%. That low percentage helps avoid the worst outcomes, but there’s always a risk. Some crafters get away with bigger pours or thin layers. Science doesn’t guarantee the finish or strength you want. Every batch acts a little different.
Art resin might look pretty, but the chemicals are tough on skin and lungs. Resin fumes can irritate airways, especially if water-based paints mess with the curing process and leave unreacted compounds floating around. Acrylic paints alone are one of the safest ways to color a canvas, but, mixed into DIY resin, they bring unpredictability to the end product. Gloves, a mask, and good ventilation are a must. I wouldn’t let kids handle these combinations. Not all brands report what's inside every bottle, and off-label mixing means you’re entering unknown territory for allergies or chemical reactions.
Having tried nearly every craft store paint in resin, I always come back to colorants designed for resin. These pigments dissolve evenly into the resin without introducing water or unexpected chemical leftovers. The finished surface stays strong, glossy, and scratch-resistant. Larger projects or commercial work stick with tested, certified pigments or resin-safe inks. This method avoids peeling, bubbling, or surface failure.
For hobbyists who still want to blend acrylic paint into resin, start small—mix only a tiny batch, test on a disposable piece, and let it fully cure before trying it out. Keep in mind, the experiment might fail. Expect color shifts, longer drying times, and odd surface textures. Lay out your workspace with plastic or silicone mats, in case of sticky messes. Always check both paint and resin for any signs of separation or strange odors.
Mixing acrylic paint with epoxy resin tempts plenty of creative minds, but it’s not a perfect marriage. Pay attention to safety instructions and look for materials made to work together. It saves time, money, and disappointment later.
