must reads

Each of these books provides valuable information for those wishing to learn more about pigments.If you have a suggestion for a book to include here or you would like to submit a book review, let us know.

To see more about each book, just click on the cover.

just in time for gift giving: exciting new pigment books

The Natural Pigment Handbook: A Maker’s Guide to the Art, Stories and Recipes for Creating Paint by Lucy Mayes

A comprehensive reference that explores the history, evolution, creation, and application of pigment in the world of art and painting.

The history and science are riveting; the recipes and techniques are alchemy; the added vision that can be added to an artist’s statement is unparalleled

Join artist and pigment maker Lucy Mayes at work on location and in her studio with this vibrant, dynamic book: a tribute to her passion for the subject and desire to share its stories, riches, and recipes

Discover the techniques and recipes to create colorful shades from everyday waste and even the rocks from your back yard

Perfect for the growing trend of eco art materials and learning how to make paint to add greater narrative, purpose and meaning to your artwork

Welcome to the ancient and modern world of art and painting media.

To order Natural Pigment handbook just click the cover image

Pigment Stories : A Book by Jackson's Art

Richly illustrated book with insights into over 60 historic and contemporary pigments

Traces the story of colour from prehistoric ochres to modern quinacridones

Explores the hidden stories behind artists’ pigments and how they have evolved

For artists, makers, and those curious about the intersection of art, history, and creativity

To order, click the cover image

From Plant to Pigment: How to make your own vibrant inks, pastels and paints

By Natalie Stopka

An inspiring manual full of recipes for artists to create their own pigments, paints, and pastels from botanical sources.

Natalie Stopka is an artist and educator known for her explorations of handmade, homegrown pigments. In From Plant to Pigment she invites us into her studio, sharing the ways she has divested her practice of non-renewable synthetics in favor of the craft of handmade, homegrown, local colour.

Learn the fundamental technique of how to make a lake pigment, transforming botanical dye into lasting, vivid pigment. This gorgeous book will give you the tools to make the most vibrant natural colors that are perfect for your own artistic endeavors.

Sections include:

Botanical sources (cultivating, foraging, harvesting and storing dye plants).

The studio larder (essential equipment and ingredients).

Lake pigments (including Natalie’s master lake pigment recipe).

Other plant pigments

Artists’ materials (using your botanical pigments to make an array of artists’ materials)