Chameleon Pastes

Chameleon paste is used as a pigment additive to give epoxy resin a metallic, iridescent appearance that can shift between different colours depending on the viewing angle and lighting. It is suited to decorative resin applications such as river tables, resin inlays, filled knots and cracks, coasters, jewellery, serving boards and woodturning blanks containing epoxy.

Measure and mix the epoxy resin and hardener according to the resin manufacturer's instructions, then incorporate the chameleon paste and mix until the pigment is evenly dispersed. Scrape the sides and bottom of the mixing container as required to avoid poorly mixed areas. Because epoxy systems and pigment pastes vary, follow the recommendations supplied with both products regarding mixing sequence and maximum additive quantities.

The appropriate amount depends on the pigment concentration, epoxy system and desired colour intensity. Begin with a relatively small quantity and add more gradually rather than heavily pigmenting the resin immediately. The resin manufacturer's maximum permitted additive level should always take priority, as adding excessive pigment paste may interfere with curing or alter the physical properties of the finished epoxy.

A dark or black background can make many colour-shifting pigments appear stronger because it increases contrast and reduces competing reflected light from beneath the pigment. This can produce a deeper and more dramatic colour transition. Chameleon pigments can also be used with other background colours or in translucent resin, however, so making test samples is worthwhile when choosing the final colour combination.

Compatible pigments can be used together to create custom colours, contrasting pours, swirls and layered effects. However, adding conventional opaque pigments can reduce the visibility of the chameleon effect if they overwhelm the colour-shifting particles. Experimenting with small test batches is a practical way to determine suitable proportions before mixing enough resin for a larger project.

Yes, compatible chameleon paste can be dispersed through clear casting epoxy to create metallic and colour-shifting effects. The appearance will depend on pigment concentration, casting thickness, background colour and lighting. A translucent mix can retain some visual depth, while a higher pigment concentration may create a more opaque metallic appearance.

Sanding a cured epoxy surface will temporarily make it look dull or cloudy because fine scratches scatter light. Where the pigment is mixed throughout the resin rather than applied only to the surface, sanding does not normally remove the colour from the entire casting. Progressing through the appropriate sanding stages and applying a compatible final finish or polishing system can restore clarity and enhance the reflective colour-shifting effect.