Pigments

Unearthed paints and plasters can be tinted with our earth and mineral pigments.  These pigments give our paint a depth and radiance that cannot be mimicked by the chemical colorants used in conventional paints.  

CHOOSING YOUR PIGMENT.

We carry 24 different pigments shown in three different hues below: vibrant, medium and subtle.

All pigments can be added to any of our white paints or plasters up to the maximum amount allowed by weight: 10% for paints and 5% for plasters. For example, if you purchased a 10 kg. bag of Smooth Lime Plaster you can add up to 500 g. of pigment.  (1000 g = 1 kg)

To determine how much pigment is needed for your project first choose a pigment. Then decide if you desire the most vibrant shade of that pigment, a medium shade or a very subtle shade. Once decided, see the chart below to determine how much pigment is actually needed for your project.

If we do not carry the exact color you’re looking for don’t be afraid to mix pigments! For example, if you’re using the 10 kg. bag of Smooth Lime Plaster you can mix up to 500 g of pigment (5% of weight). If you desire a bluish-gray, you could purchase 350 grams of a blue pigment and 150 grams of the black pigment. Mix the two pigments together in water until thoroughly combined.

MIXING.

To tint white based paint or plaster, first thoroughly dissolve the pre-measured pigment in water.  If using two pigments, mix the two together. Make sure that there are no clumps. Then pour the pigment into the bucket you will be mixing your paint/plaster in. Using an electric mixer, slowly add in your paint/plaster and it’s designated amount of water in with the pigment. Mix until well combined, with even color throughout and no clumps.

NOTE.

If product begins to dry out during application, adding extra water to the entire product is advisable, however, adding water to an already applied product in the form of misting is inadvisable, unless trying to achieve a marbled look.