Where would a painter be without a paint palette? These seemingly simple objects are essential to help artists envision the colors and compositions that make up their artworks. Paint palettes come in a wide variety of materials, with some made from glass or plastic and others created in wood or ceramic; here, we focus on those made from plastic. Painters depend on their paint palettes to organize their materials and blend colors, and they look for a durable, reliable, and washable piece to take them through many projects. Moreover, artists desire a palette that can accommodate different types of paints, from watercolors to oils to acrylics. Oftentimes, too, artists are looking for a tool that can accommodate an array of colors with a sufficient number of wells. The importance of a paint palette for seasoned creators can’t be overstated.
1. Hulameda Paint Tray Palettes
This set comes with 12 individual molded plastic paint trays. Perfect for painters of all skill levels, these round palettes are easily washable and long-lasting. An added bonus is that these items are stackable and store effortlessly atop one another. Take them outside to paint en plein air, or hole up in the studio with the set to contemplate a complex work. With 10 wells and a central space for mixing, there’s plenty of opportunity for experimentation with color with this palette. You can even leave your paints on the trays overnight and they’ll still wash off easily the next day.
2. Centstar Round Paint Palettes
With this package you get 15 individual round paint palettes that can be transported anywhere your painting practice takes you. Made from nontoxic molded plastic, these palettes are easy to hold for extended periods of time and equally easy to wash. The smooth surfaces of these trays will not wear down, providing a glossy plane for all your paints, oils, and gels. Each palette has 10 wells and a large central reservoir for combining colors. Stock up on palettes with this set and you won’t need to buy more for a long while. This item is ideal for artists of all skill levels, from children to M.F.A. students and professional painters.
3. Artlicious Paint Tray Palettes with Thumb Hole
These palettes feature 10 wells of different sizes and shapes, six of them round and four irregular. With this purchase you’ll get a pack of three plastic palettes, perfect for water-based paints. Cleaning these trays is simple and quick—the paint will glide right off. As an added benefit, these palettes are held and balanced with ease by way of a thumb hole at the center. They’re ideal for teaching painting, acquainting yourself with the craft, or creating work of your own.
4. Tosnail White Paint Palettes
This pack of 15 paint palettes will last you through numerous artistic projects. Equipped with a thumb hole, six round wells, and four rectangular wells, these paint palettes are ideal for holding generous amounts of watercolors, oils, and acrylics. Each tray features a contoured rest for your hand, which makes it possible to keep working for hours without tiring or cramping your muscles. The durable, molded plastic is simple to clean and unlikely to break or bend. Having this collection of palettes on hand will ensure you’re ready whenever inspiration strikes.
5. Darice Oblong Paint Palette
Offering a generous thumb hole and 10 wells, this palette is good for work with oil, watercolor, and acrylic paints. Darice, the maker of this item, has been crafting art supplies since 1954, so quality and reliability are guaranteed. The oblong palette can be cleaned quickly, and it is sturdy enough to withstand use across projects. Of a very generous size, this tray provides ample real estate for combining paints and discovering new frontiers of color. It is a great and economical tool for professional artists working toward their big break.