Artist palettes come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. This guide explains the most common types and their benefits.

For many artists, the palette is more than a tool, it’s an extension of their creativity. When working with paints, understanding how to use your palette effectively can transform your painting process.

The palette is where your creative process begins, setting the tone for the artwork you’re about to create. Choose the right palette and keep it organised. Master the art of mixing and you’ll build a solid foundation for your painting journey.

In this guide, we’ll explore the essentials of choosing and using an artist’s palette. As well as tips for managing your paints for a smoother creative experience.

Choosing the right palette

Glass palette

Glass palette

A flat, tempered glass surface that’s easy to clean and highly durable. Smooth mixing surface for effortless blending, long lasting and durable. Glass palettes are non-porous, making clean-up a breeze.They are however heavier then plastic and less portable. Typically needs placing on a stable surface.

Beginner tip: Place a sheet of gray or neutral paper underneath the glass to judge colour mixes more accurately.

Disposable palette pads

Disposable palette pad 23cm x 30.5 cm, 40 sheets

Pads of tear-off waxy, non-porous coated paper sheets that can be discarded after use. Convenient and mess-free and ideal for beginners or travel. Limited mixing space compared to other palettes and less environmentally friendly. Paint can dry quickly on the paper surface.

Beginner tip: If the sheets curl while mixing, tape the edges down to a board.

Plastic palettes

 

Plastic palette

Lightweight and affordable palettes made from plastic. Easy to carry and clean and great for beginners. Can stain over time and are less durable than wood or glass.

Ceramic palettes

Heavy, glazed ceramic trays, usually with small wells and a non-porous surface that resists staining. Easy to clean, and durable if cared for properly. Heavier and breakable thank other palettes and smaller wells limit mixing space. These are less common for oil and acrylics and are more often used in watercolor, but still handy.

How to use your palette

A well-organised palette can make your painting process more enjoyable and efficient. Here’s how to set it up:

Arrange your colours: Place colours around the edge of the palette, leaving the centre for mixing. Arrange them in a logical order (e.g., warm to cool hues) to make it easier to find what you need.

Use a limited palette: Start with a few basic colours (such as red, blue, yellow, white, and black) to learn how to mix a wide range of tones.

Keep it clean: Wipe off excess paint and mix new colours in clean spaces to avoid muddiness.

Use a palette knife: A palette knife is essential for mixing colours evenly and avoiding contamination of your brushes.

Start small: Mix small amounts of paint to prevent waste, especially for less commonly used shades.

Clean immediately: Wipe off unused paint and scrape away dried paint with a palette knife or razor blade.

Oil wooden palettes: Condition wooden palettes regularly to prevent cracking and absorption.

Protect glass palettes: Place a protective cover or keep them on a stable surface to avoid damage.

If you're new to painting, don't stop here! Explore our other beginner-friendly guides to learn all you need to progress and develop your oil and acrylic skills.

Three top tips for beginners

1. Experiment: Try different palettes to find what feels most comfortable for your style and workspace.
2. Practise mixing: Spend time learning how to mix colours to achieve the hues you want. This skill is invaluable.
3. Organise regularly: Keeping your palette neat not only saves time but also helps you focus on the creative process.

---