Plastic palette

To choose a plastic palette, start by considering the medium you’re using and the size of your painting sessions. Palettes should make it easy to mix and store your colors. In this set, you’ll find transparent options with 24 wells, ideal for quickly organizing your shades for acrylics or gouache. Other models offer smaller or larger wells, including sets with a lid to help prevent colors from drying out while you’re on the go. Choose a sturdy material and a size that fits your workspace.

Start by comparing the number of wells and whether there’s a lid, since these affect how you manage your mixes and transport them. Some palettes include 24 transparent wells for a wide range of shades, while others offer 12 deeper covered wells to help preserve your mixes between sessions. A translucent color can help you see the shades without opening the lid, and a lightweight plastic palette is easier to clean and store.

A small translucent palette is perfect for quick projects and travel because it easily fits in a bag and lets you preview colors right away. For longer studio sessions, a larger palette with 24 compartments or a palette with a lid can provide better organization and safer storage of your paints. Some models—like those with wide wells or with a lid—are especially well-suited for mixed-media techniques and continuous mixing without spilling.

Clean it after every use with soapy water, and rinse thoroughly to prevent pigments from drying and clogging the wells. Dry it completely before storing your paints to prevent moisture stains and warping. Avoid harsh solvents that could damage the plastic, and store the palette flat to maintain its shape. Transparent palettes and palettes with lids benefit even more from regular maintenance because their surfaces stay more uniform and are easier to clean.

For water-based techniques, a clear, transparent palette makes it easy to see dilution and subtle color differences, helping you mix cleanly without confusion. For oils and acrylics, choose deeper wells and, if possible, a palette with a lid to slow drying during longer sessions. In our selection, you’ll find palettes with these features, including transparent options and larger white versions, designed to match different workflows and personal preferences.

For transport, a lightweight palette with a lid is ideal because it keeps colors in place and helps prevent leaks. Some options are designed with 24 wells and a transparent finish, so you can quickly identify shades without opening the lid. If you’re working on smaller projects, a compact palette with fewer wells may be enough and helps keep your workspace clear while still providing practical storage.