Pigments 101: What Every Artist Needs to Know

Ever wonder why some colors look brighter or last longer than others? The secret is in the pigment. Whether you work with watercolors, oils, or acrylics, knowing your pigments can make a huge difference in the final piece. Let’s break down the basics so you can pick, mix, and care for pigments like a pro.

Types of pigments and where they come from

Most pigments fall into two camps: natural and synthetic. Natural pigments are mined from minerals (think ultramarine blue from lapis lazuli) or extracted from plants (like indigo). They often have a historic feel and can be a bit pricey. Synthetic pigments are made in labs and cover the bulk of modern palettes. They’re usually more affordable, consistent, and offer a wider range of hues.

Within those categories you’ll hear terms like “organic” (derived from carbon‑based sources) and “inorganic” (mineral‑based). Organic pigments tend to be transparent and great for glazing, while inorganic pigments are opaque and perfect for bold blocks of color. Knowing this helps you decide which finish you need for a particular area of your artwork.

How to pick and use pigments in your work

Start by matching pigment type to your medium. Water‑based paints need pigments that disperse well in water, while oil paints require pigments that stay suspended in oil. If you switch mediums, don’t just dump the same pigment in; you’ll get clumps or uneven color.

When you buy a new pigment, test a tiny amount on a scrap piece. Look for transparency, tinting strength, and how it reacts over time. Some pigments, like cadmium reds, can shift slightly as they dry. Others, like phthalo greens, are super strong, so you’ll need only a pinch to dominate a mix.

Mixing is where the fun begins. Use a palette knife or a small brush to blend pigments on a non‑porous surface. Start with a small amount of each color and add more gradually. This prevents waste and lets you see how the hues interact before committing to a larger batch.

Safety matters, too. Certain pigments contain heavy metals (think cadmium, cobalt, or lead) and can be hazardous if inhaled or ingested. Always work in a well‑ventilated area, wear a mask when grinding powders, and wash your hands after handling. Many manufacturers now offer “non‑toxic” alternatives that look just as vibrant.

Storing pigments properly extends their life. Keep dry pigments in airtight containers away from moisture, which can cause clumping or mold. For wet paints, seal the lid tightly and store them upside down to create a vacuum seal. Label each container with the color name and the date you opened it—this helps you track freshness.

Finally, organize your palette by intensity and temperature. Lay out cool colors (blues, greens) on one side and warm colors (reds, yellows) on the other. This visual layout speeds up color decisions and reduces the time you spend hunting for the right hue.

Understanding pigments isn’t rocket science, but it does require a bit of trial and error. Keep a notebook of your favorite mixes, note how each pigment behaves, and experiment weekly. Before long, you’ll have a personal color library that works exactly the way you need it to.