There are many watercolor palettes available in a variety of sizes and shapes. If you are using tube paints, you’ll need one to put your watercolors on. Be sure to look for one that has room to mix your colors.

I’ve purchased the small plastic ones (like the one pictured) for my students for about $1.00 each. They have 8-10 small wells for the paint and a small space in the center to mix them. These are some of my least favorite — there’s very little room for mixing, and the slick surface of the palette causes the mixed colors to “disappear”. An inexpensive alternative: a white Styrofoam plate. It has a larger surface, doesn’t let any water through (like a paper plate would do), and can be covered with foil or plastic wrap so the paints can be used again.

Another “palette” I’ve used over and over again is a white dinner plate I picked up at a yard sale. I also have a butcher tray palette, which is made of porcelain enamel over metal. It has a raised center which causes water to run to the edge.

Whatever you choose to use as a palette, just be sure it is white. Watercolors have a transparent quality, and you will be able to see through the paint when you mix it. With a white surface, you’ll be able to see the true colors.  A cover for your palette will help the watercolors stay moist while not in use, although even when they do dry out, you can simply add water and use them again.

What’s your favorite type of palette?

Photo by Jade