Palettes

A good palette provides sufficient mixing space, suits the painting medium and allows colors to be assessed without unnecessary loss or contamination.

Choose surface and size to suit your method

Plastic and coated palettes are light and easy to use for water-based paint; glass provides a flat mixing surface in the studio; tear-off palettes save cleaning time. Compartments keep liquid colors separate, while a large area works better for broad blends with a knife or brush.

Color arrangement and cleaning

Always place colors in the same order and keep a clean mixing area to limit muddy blends. Do not allow paint to harden on materials that would be damaged and only scrape glass with suitable tools. Do not use food utensils as a palette for artist materials.

Also explore Palette Knives · Brushes · Paint for compatible materials and the next step in your project.