8 Fun and Easy DIY Projects Using Concrete Pigment for Coloring Cement, Overlays, Stucco, and Grout
by Justin Richardson
Looking to add some personality and color to your concrete projects? Concrete pigment, also known as cement pigment or mortar color, is a versatile product that can be used to integrally color fresh concrete, stucco, grout, and concrete overlays. With a wide range of colors available from Direct Colors, you can easily find the perfect shade to match your creative vision. Let’s explore eight fun and DIY-friendly projects using concrete pigment!
1. Revamp Your Countertops and Fireplaces on a Budget
Give your concrete countertops or fireplace a makeover without breaking the bank. Use an integrally colored concrete overlay to directly cover old laminate, Formica, or tile. Direct Colors offers a range of concrete pigments that can be added to the overlay mixture, providing a durable and consistent finish for your surfaces at an affordable price.
![DIY+Refinish+Laminate+Countertop+Skimcoat+Concrete+Overlay (2) Laminate Kitchen Countertop](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/DIYRefinishLaminateCountertopSkimcoatConcreteOverlay-2.jpg)
![White Overlay Countertop Skimcoat White Overlay Countertop](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/CDIYWhiteConcreteSkimcoatKitchenCountertops-Max-Quality.jpg)
See more of Liz Morrow’s concrete countertop project.
![before-concrete-overlay-pearl-white-tiled-fireplace-resurface Tiled fireplace](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/before-concrete-overlay-pearl-white-tiled-fireplace-resurface.jpg)
![concrete-overlay-pearl-white-tiled-fireplace-resurface-makeover After smooth pearl white concrete overlay](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/concrete-overlay-pearl-white-tiled-fireplace-resurface-makeover.jpg)
See more concrete overlay customer projects.
2. Create a Budget-Friendly Woodgrain-Effect Cement Floor
by Nicole Teut @ethoscustomjewelry.
Transform your space with a unique and cost-effective woodgrain-effect cement floor. Mix white Portland cement with your chosen pigment from Direct Colors, and apply it to your floor using a chip brush. After curing, use a trowel to smooth the surface and create a woodgrain effect. This DIY project not only adds character to your space but also demonstrates the versatility of concrete pigment.
![Before: Unfinished retail space concrete floor with unsightly stains, blotches, and glue residue Before: Unfinished retail space concrete floor with unsightly stains, blotches, and glue residue](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/before-cream-beige-cement-pigment-floor-overlay-scaled.jpg)
![Clean and patched retail space concrete floor, ready for the woodgrain-effect cement overlay application Clean and patched retail space concrete floor, ready for the woodgrain-effect cement overlay application](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/pearl-white-cement-pigment-floor-overlay-scaled.jpg)
![Retail space concrete floor with cream beige pigmented overlay applied using a chip brush Retail space concrete floor with cream beige pigmented overlay applied using a chip brush](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/cream-beige-cement-pigment-floor-overlay-applied-chip-brush-scaled.jpg)
![Artistic woodgrain effect achieved by skillfully troweling and burnishing the textured top coat. Artistic woodgrain effect achieved by skillfully troweling and burnishing the textured top coat.](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Pigment-Retail-Store-Floor-Cream-Beige-Pearl-Finish.jpg)
To create a woodgrain effect on your floor using white Portland cement and pigment, follow these simple steps:
- Mix two parts of white Portland cement with the pigment of your choice to create a thick liquid, similar to pancake batter.
- Apply the mixture to your floor using a chip brush, spreading it evenly.
- Repeat the process to apply a second layer of the mixture on top of the first one.
- Allow the overlay to dry and harden for at least 24 hours.
- Use a trowel to gently smooth the surface and create a woodgrain pattern by pressing down and dragging the trowel across the ridges.
When working in sections, remember to slightly overlap each new section with the previous one for a seamless look. Ensure your floor is clean and smooth before starting.
![Artistic woodgrain effect using integrally colored cement overlay Artistic woodgrain effect using integrally colored cement overlay](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/retail-store-floor-pearl-white-base-cream-beige-cement-pigment-floor-overlay-applied-chip-brush-troweled-scaled.jpg)
![Image showcasing a beautiful white concrete stained floor in a retail shop, complemented by elegant store showcase furniture Image showcasing a beautiful white concrete stained floor in a retail shop, complemented by elegant store showcase furniture](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Image-showcasing-a-beautiful-white-concrete-stained-floor-in-a-retail-shop-complemented-by-elegant-store-showcase-furniture.png)
3. Add a Pop of Color to Your Concrete Countertops
Upgrade your kitchen or bathroom with colorful concrete countertops. Choose from a wide range of pigment colors offered by Direct Colors to create a rich and even color for your surfaces. You can also use pigment in conjunction with concrete acid stain for added depth and dimension.
![Beachfront buff colored concrete overlay over formica kitchen countertop Beachfront colored concrete overlay over formica kitchen countertop](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/white-concrete-overlay-beachfront-buff-kitchen-countertop-2-700x400.jpeg)
![Stunning Cola and Malayan Buff Everstain acid stained finish enhances Beachfront Buff pigmented concrete overlay kitchen countertop. Stunning Cola and Malayan Buff Everstain acid stained finish enhances Beachfront Buff pigmented concrete overlay kitchen countertop.](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/everstain-cola-malayan-buff-over-white-overlay-beachfront-buff-kitchen-concrete-countertop--scaled-700x400.jpeg)
See more customer concrete countertop projects.
4. Color Your Grout with Pigment Powder for a Custom Look
Give your tile work a unique touch by using colorful grout. Direct Colors offers pigment powders that can be easily mixed with grout, allowing you to create subtle or bold accents. Experiment with different amounts to find the perfect hue for your project.
![White Grout Colored with Cafe Pigment White Grout Colored with Cafe Pigment](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Grout-Color.jpg)
5. Give Your Stucco a Vibrant Makeover
Breathe new life into your stucco with vibrant color pigment. This durable and easy-to-maintain option is a cost-effective alternative to traditional exterior paint, allowing you to add personality to your home with bold and unique hues.
![Masonry wall Masonry wall](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/before-202-blue-pigment-masonry-stucco-wall.jpg)
![202 blue Senergy pigmented stucco 202 blue Senergy pigmented stucco](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/202-blue-pigment-masonry-stucco-wall.jpg)
6. Enhance Your Plaster with Integral Color Pigment
Upgrade your plaster with integral color pigment. Direct Colors offers a wide range of pigment colors that can help you add a touch of color to your plaster, elevating its appearance and adding personality to your home.
![Stucco coat colored with maize pigment Stucco coat colored with maize pigment](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/concrete-pigment-maze-stucco-wall-800x600.jpg)
![malayan-buff-pigment-mixed-white-plaster-wall-design Malayan buff pigment mixed with white plaster wall design](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/malayan-buff-pigment-mixed-white-plaster-wall-design-scaled-800x600.jpg)
7. Customize Your Mortar for a Unique Brick Look
Elevate your brickwork by adding custom color to your mortar. Direct Colors offers hundreds of mortar colors, making it easy to refresh the appearance of your home’s old bricks or fireplace mantel, or even create a “brick look” on stone walls using a concrete overlay.
![Merlot Mortar Color Concrete Pigment Mortar Color Concrete Pigment](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/merlot-mortar-concrete-pigment-1.jpg)
Learn how to make a faux brick wall.
8. Add Long-Lasting Color to Your Outdoor Concrete Projects
Use UV-stable, long-lasting pigments to add enduring color to outdoor concrete projects like stepping stones, planters, or concrete art. Customize your pavers and match the natural theme of your home with our wide range of pigment colors, creating vibrant and durable finishes.
![DC-PIG-GRY-117-5-mars-artist-the.moodycactus-concrete-table concrete tables for a Furniture Design Exhibit](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/DC-PIG-GRY-117-5-mars-artist-the.moodycactus-concrete-table.png)
Check out more concrete pigment customer projects.
![Concrete Pigment - Decoration Concrete Ball - Antique Rose - Lava - Mari Gold - Prairie Blue - Turmeric - After 4 - Quality (2) Landscaping Concrete Decor](https://directcolors.com/diy/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Concrete-Pigment-Decoration-Concrete-Ball-Antique-Rose-Lava-Mari-Gold-Prairie-Blue-Turmeric-After-4-Quality-2.jpg)
In conclusion, concrete pigment offers endless possibilities for DIY enthusiasts looking to add color and personality to various projects, including cement, overlays, stucco, and grout. With a wide range of color options and easy-to-use pre-measured mixes, Direct Colors makes it simple to create a vibrant and durable finish. Whether you’re looking to refresh your countertops, fireplace, or outdoor pavers, or add some flair to your brickwork or plaster, concrete pigment is a cost.