FAQ's
Are pigments and dyes the same thing?
No, Dyes are soluble, whilst pigments are non-soluble. Pigments will not stain porous materials like a dye, they require a binder to keep the particles in suspension and adhere them to the substrate.
A solution of dye will be transparent. A solution of pigment will appear cloudy.
Are all your pigments natural?
All of the pigments in the earths and ochres category are natural pigments. All other pigments are manufactured on a natural mineral base.
Can I mix different pigments together?
Yes, but be aware that mixing too many colours together will result in a dull or muddy colour. Also keep in mind that some colours in our range are already a mix of pigments, so adding extra colours to them may have a similar effect.
Can Pigments be mixed with plasters?
Yes, most coloured earth pigments can be used to tint Lime, Clay, Cement and Gypsum plasters. Check the details of the individual pigments. For Lime and Cement based plaster, please choose pigments listed as Lime Stable. The UV stability of each pigment is also listed and should be taken into account If the plaster will be subjected to direct sunlight.
Are the Pigments suitable for Tattoo ink?
No, the particle size of Coloured Earth Pigments is too big for use in Tattoo Ink.
Are your pigments Suitable for Cosmetics?
Coloured Earth pigments have not been tested for use in cosmetics. The particle size is also too large for cosmetic applications.
I want a really dark coloured limewash. Is there a limit to how much pigment I can use?
Yes, there is a limit to how much pigment can be added to limewash and lime plaster before compromising the materials stability. Also, as lime dries it gets whiter, effecting the colour of the limewash. This makes it difficult to achieve dark colours in limewash and lime plaster.
Additions of Natural Ochres and Earth pigments to limewash and lime plasters should not exceed 10% by volume. Additions of Oxides and Synthetics should be limited to 5% or less.
Darker colours can be achieved using the Fresco Method where a mix of limewater and pigments (4:1) is painted onto fresh lime plaster a few hours after the plaster been applied. This will then bond with the limeplaster as it cures. Adding pigment to the lime plaster is not necessary but it will give a good base for a darker colour.
Do pigments have a shelf life?
As long as pigments are kept dry in a sealed container they will last indefinitely. Pigments that have become damp may solidify and require grinding before use.
Can I use Coloured earth pigment for making crayons
Yes, all of the Coloured Earth pigments are suitable for making crayons.
Are Coloured Earth Pigments Biodegradable.
All Coloured Earth Pigments are inorganic. They are minerals and cannot be broken down by microorganisms. Large amounts of excess pigment should be disposed of responsibly.
Why are some of the pigment tubs fuller than others?
Coloured earth pigments are priced and packed by weight. Different pigments, however, have different densities resulting in a difference in volume.
e.g. a 100g tub of Yellow ochre will be full, whilst the same size tub with 100g of India black will only be a quarter full.
Is your pigment packaging recyclable?
Yes, reusability and recyclability is a key factor in the packaging choices we make.
All the plastic tubs can be washed out and reused.
Alternatively all of our plastic containers and lids are recyclable. They are either made of PET (1) or PP (5) – the type of plastic used is clearly visible on the container or lid.
Some containers have a coated paper lid insert that helps to contain the fine powders. Please check with your local authority to find out if they can be recycled near you.