About the colors, I think I remember seeing on a site that they used the cake colorings (from Wilton), but I can't remember if that was for CP or MP. I think you could use the food coloring, but it will probably fade. And, I think if you want true color, you will have to add some titanium dioxide to make it white first. I just got some from the classifieds and can't wait to try it!!! About the smell, mine smell sort of funny too. I wonder if it is different for HP and CP???? SOrry if I am not much help, but I am still learning too! Steph