Choosing the best palette for commercial illustration boosts creativity and improves workflow. The right palette keeps colors organized and easy to mix.
A good palette matters for artists working with watercolors, acrylics, or oils. It helps keep paints fresh and prevents spills. Different palettes offer unique features like airtight lids or many wells for mixing colors. Some come with disposable sheets, making cleanup quick and simple.
Others have sturdy materials that last long and suit all skill levels. Whether you work in a studio or on the go, finding a palette that fits your style makes painting easier. This guide covers top palettes, including popular options like Mijello, Zenacolor, and U. S. Art Supply. Each palette offers practical benefits for commercial illustration artists seeking quality and convenience.
Martin 92-wp3024b Mijello Airtight Leak Proof Fusian Watercolor Palette
The Martin 92-WP3024B Mijello Airtight Leak Proof Fusian Watercolor 24-Well Palette is ideal for artists and hobbyists who demand high-quality, portable watercolor solutions. Whether you are a professional painter, an art student, or an enthusiastic beginner, this palette is designed to keep your paints fresh and organized, making it perfect for both studio work and outdoor painting sessions.
Pros:
- Airtight and leak-proof design ensures no paint spills or drying out during transport.
- Includes 24 wells for a wide range of colors and mixing options.
- Compact and lightweight with dimensions of 14.0 x 11.0 x 2.0 inches and weighing only 1.0 pound, making it highly portable.
- Durable blue case protects the palette and paints from damage.
- Manufactured by Martin Mijello, a trusted name in art supplies, ensuring quality and reliability.
Cons:
- The plastic case may scratch with heavy use over time.
- Limited to watercolor paints, not suitable for other paint types.
The Martin 92-WP3024B Mijello Palette boasts a meticulously designed airtight seal that keeps your watercolor paints moist and ready to use, significantly reducing waste and frustration. Its 24-well layout offers ample space for organizing multiple colors, enabling artists to experiment with a broad spectrum of hues without the need for multiple palettes. This feature enhances creative flexibility whether you’re mixing subtle gradients or vibrant contrasts.
Moreover, the palette’s compact and lightweight design makes it an excellent companion for artists on the go. The sturdy blue case not only safeguards your paints but also doubles as a mixing surface, streamlining your painting process. Overall, the fusion of portability, durability, and practical features makes this palette a smart investment for anyone passionate about watercolor painting.
To buy this product, click here.
Zenacolor Paper Palette Pad
The Zenacolor Paper Palette Pad is ideal for artists and painters who seek a convenient and mess-free way to mix their paints. Whether you are a professional painter working with oil, acrylic, or watercolor paints, or a hobbyist looking for an efficient palette solution, this pad is designed to meet your needs. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer disposable palettes to avoid the hassle of cleaning and to maintain a fresh surface for every project.
Pros:
- 50 removable and disposable sheets providing ample usage without cleanup.
- High-quality 80gsm (24lb) paper that resists paint bleed-through.
- Compatible with all types of paints, including oil, acrylic, and watercolor.
- Compact size with dimensions 12.0 x 9.05 inches, easy to carry and store.
- Each sheet is white, giving true color representation of paints.
Cons:
- Single-use sheets may be less eco-friendly compared to reusable palettes.
- Not suitable for heavy paint applications that require mixing on a sturdier surface.
The Zenacolor Paper Palette Pad features 50 removable sheets of durable, thick paper that provide an excellent surface for mixing paints. Its 80gsm weight ensures that the paper holds paint well without warping or bleeding through, allowing artists to work cleanly and efficiently. The disposable nature of the sheets means you can easily tear off a used palette and start fresh, helping to maintain color purity and avoid contamination between projects.
Designed for versatility, this palette pad accommodates all paint types, making it a practical choice for a wide range of artistic styles and techniques. Its compact and lightweight design allows for easy transport, perfect for artists who paint both in studios and on location. Overall, the Zenacolor Paper Palette Pad offers a convenient, cost-effective, and user-friendly solution for mixing paints, enhancing the creative process for painters at any skill level.
To buy this product, click here.
New Mijello Bulletproof Palette For Watercolor
The New Mijello Bulletproof Palette for Watercolor 36 Colors is ideal for both professional artists and passionate hobbyists who seek a reliable and compact watercolor palette. If you value vibrant colors, portability, and durability in your art supplies, this palette is designed to meet your creative needs. Its well-organized layout and high-quality pigments make it perfect for painters who work both in the studio and on the go.
Pros:
- Contains 36 richly pigmented watercolor colors for extensive creative options
- Compact and lightweight design with dimensions of approximately 14.17 x 6.18 x 0.87 inches, making it easy to carry
- Durable silver casing that protects paints from damage and drying out
- Manufactured by trusted brand Mijello, known for high-quality art supplies
- Well-organized palette layout allows for efficient mixing and easy access to colors
Cons:
- Palette size might be slightly large for very small travel bags
- Weight of 0.99 pounds may be heavier compared to ultra-light travel palettes
The Mijello Bulletproof Palette is crafted with professional-grade pigments that provide excellent color payoff and long-lasting vibrancy. Artists will appreciate the smooth paint application and the ability to blend colors effortlessly on the palette’s spacious mixing area. The sturdy silver case ensures that your paints remain secure and protected from accidental spills or drying, which is especially beneficial for outdoor painting sessions or travel.
Additionally, the thoughtful design includes a wide range of 36 colors, covering all essential hues for watercolor painting. This extensive selection enables artists to achieve a broad spectrum of tones and shades without needing extra palettes. Its dimensions and weight balance portability with functionality, making it a versatile tool for artists who require both convenience and quality in their watercolor supplies.
To buy this product, click here.
U.s. Art Supply 17-well Artist Painting Palette (pack Of 2)
The U.S. Art Supply 17-Well Artist Painting Palette (Pack of 2) is ideal for art students, classroom instructors, and hobbyists who need a versatile and convenient way to mix and organize their paints. Whether you’re working with acrylic, oil, or watercolor, this set of palettes is perfect for anyone involved in class craft projects, party events, or professional art creation. If you require a durable, reusable, and easy-to-clean mixing tray, this product is designed to meet those needs efficiently.
Pros:
- 17 wells provide ample space for mixing multiple paint colors simultaneously.
- Made from lightweight, durable plastic for easy handling and long-lasting use.
- Comes as a pack of 2, offering great value and convenience for group activities or backup palettes.
- The white color enhances color visibility, making it easier to blend and match paint shades accurately.
- Suitable for a variety of paint types: acrylic, oil, and watercolor.
- Compact dimensions (10 x 13.5 inches) provide sufficient workspace while remaining portable.
Cons:
- Made of plastic, which may not appeal to artists preferring traditional wooden palettes.
- The wells are relatively shallow, which might limit the amount of paint mixed at one time.
- Not dishwasher safe, so requires hand washing to maintain longevity.
The U.S. Art Supply 17-Well Artist Painting Palette is thoughtfully designed to support creative freedom and efficiency. Its multiple wells allow users to keep colors separate or mix them without cross-contamination, which is essential for maintaining color purity and experimenting with new shades. The lightweight plastic construction ensures that the palette is easy to carry around, making it an excellent choice for both classroom settings and outdoor painting sessions.
Additionally, the neutral white surface of the palette improves color accuracy, helping artists to better gauge the true appearance of their paints. The set of two palettes included in the pack means you can have one palette for mixing and another for clean colors or different projects simultaneously. This versatility makes it a practical investment for anyone serious about their painting craft, from beginners to advanced artists.
To buy this product, click here.
Mahitoi Palette For Watercolors, Oil & Acrylic Paints
The MAHITOI Palette for Watercolors, Oil & Acrylic Paints is ideal for artists of all levels who seek a versatile and durable mixing surface. Whether you are a beginner exploring different painting mediums or a professional looking for an efficient palette to manage multiple colors, this product meets diverse artistic needs. Its design caters to painters who require ample space for mixing and separating colors while maintaining an organized workflow.
Pros:
- Includes 20 wells in various shapes and sizes for versatile mixing options.
- Compatible with watercolors, oil, and acrylic paints.
- Compact dimensions of 13” x 10” with a slim profile for easy handling and storage.
- Durable construction from the trusted MAHITOI brand.
- Wells designed to mix and separate colors effectively to prevent contamination.
- Lightweight and portable for use both in studio and on the go.
Cons:
- Color may vary, which may not suit those wanting a specific palette color.
- The relatively shallow depth (0.6 inches) might limit the amount of paint held in each well.
The MAHITOI Palette features a thoughtfully designed layout with 4 slated squares, 4 squares, 4 large circular wells, and 8 small circular wells. This arrangement allows artists to separate primary colors, create gradients, and mix custom shades without cross-contamination. The variety of well shapes accommodates different quantities and types of paint, enhancing creative flexibility. Its sturdy build ensures stability during use, preventing accidental spills or tipping over.
Made with high-quality materials, this palette supports all major paint types, including watercolors, oils, and acrylics, making it a multifunctional tool in any artist’s kit. The lightweight yet durable design facilitates easy transport, whether you are painting outdoors or moving between workspaces. Overall, the MAHITOI Palette is a practical and efficient accessory that enhances the painting experience by providing ample mixing space and organization.
To buy this product, click here.
Transon Large Paint Palette Box
The Transon Large Paint Palette Box with 29 Color Mixing Wells and 1 Liner Brush is ideal for artists who need a versatile and spacious palette for mixing a variety of colors. Whether you are a professional painter, an art student, or a hobbyist, this palette is designed to accommodate multiple colors and offer ease of use in both studio and outdoor settings. Its compact yet large design makes it perfect for those who require efficient color organization and mixing without the hassle of multiple containers.
Pros:
- Large 29 color mixing wells provide ample space for creative blending.
- Includes a liner brush for precise detailing and fine lines.
- Lightweight and portable with dimensions of 11.8 inches length and 5.4 inches width.
- Durable construction from Transon Art Materials ensures long-lasting use.
- Clean white color palette enhances visibility of colors for better mixing accuracy.
Cons:
- The height of the palette is very slim (0.039 inches), which may limit the amount of paint held in each well.
- May not be suitable for very large-scale painting projects requiring extensive paint volumes.
The Transon Large Paint Palette Box is thoughtfully designed with 29 wells, allowing artists to experiment with numerous color combinations simultaneously. The inclusion of a liner brush offers an added advantage for those who want to switch seamlessly between mixing and applying detailed strokes. Its lightweight and compact dimensions make it convenient to carry, whether you’re working in a studio or painting en plein air. The white surface enhances the true color visibility, helping painters mix shades more accurately.
Made by Transon Art Materials, this palette is crafted with durability in mind, ensuring it withstands frequent use over time. While its slim profile may limit the volume of paint per well, it is perfect for artists who prefer working with smaller amounts of paint or who need a portable palette option. Overall, this palette box strikes a balance between functionality and portability, making it a reliable choice for a wide range of artists.
To buy this product, click here.
Creative Mark English Glazed Porcelain Palette
The Creative Mark English Glazed Porcelain Palette is ideal for artists, professionals, and students who require a durable and versatile mixing surface. If you work with watercolor, gouache, or oil paints and need a reliable palette that offers ample space for blending colors, this product is designed to meet your needs.
Pros:
- Sturdy construction ensures long-lasting use without cracking or staining.
- Features 20 deep paint wells for organized and ample color mixing.
- Made from English glazed porcelain which is easy to clean and resistant to stains.
- Compact size with dimensions of 4.72 x 4.72 x 0.79 inches and lightweight design for portability.
- Suitable for multiple paint types including watercolor, gouache, and oil paints.
Cons:
- May be too small for artists who require a larger mixing surface.
- Porcelain material can be fragile if dropped or handled roughly.
- Limited color wells compared to larger palettes for extensive color variety.
The Creative Mark English Glazed Porcelain Palette stands out because of its durable porcelain material that provides a smooth and non-porous surface, making color mixing effortless and cleanup quick. The 20 deep wells offer enough space to separate and blend multiple colors without contamination, which is essential for maintaining color purity in detailed artwork.
Its compact size and lightweight design make it highly portable, perfect for artists who paint both in the studio and on the go. Whether you are a student developing your skills or a professional seeking a reliable palette, this product offers excellent value through its versatility with various paint mediums and sturdy build that withstands regular use.
To buy this product, click here.
Mijello Watercolor Double Decker Palette
The Mijello Watercolor Double Decker Palette is ideal for artists who need a versatile and spacious mixing surface. Whether you are a professional painter, an art student, or a hobbyist, this palette suits those who require multiple wells for organizing a wide range of watercolor paints efficiently.
Pros:
- Contains 72 wells for extensive color mixing and storage.
- Double decker design maximizes space while remaining compact.
- Made by reputable brand Mijello, ensuring quality and durability.
- Lightweight at 1.37 pounds for easy portability.
- Dimensions (14.56″ x 7.08″ x 1.18″) provide ample working area without being bulky.
- Attractive blue color adds aesthetic appeal to your art supplies.
Cons:
- The height of 0.1 inches might be a typo or require clarification for storage space.
- May be too large for artists who prefer minimalistic or travel palettes.
- Only available in one color, limiting personalization options.
The Mijello Watercolor Double Decker Palette stands out with its innovative double decker layout, providing artists with an impressive number of wells to hold and mix various watercolor paints. This design helps keep colors separated and organized, reducing the risk of unwanted color blending. Its sturdy construction by Mijello ensures the palette withstands frequent use and transport, making it ideal for studio work or outdoor painting sessions.
Additionally, the palette’s size strikes a balance between functionality and portability. At just over 14 inches in length and 7 inches in width, it offers a generous mixing area without becoming cumbersome. Artists benefit from the lightweight design, which allows easy handling and travel. Overall, this palette enhances the painting experience by combining practicality, durability, and ample space for creative freedom.
To buy this product, click here.
Iro Artist Paint Palette Set Of 3
Ideal for both adults and kids who enjoy painting with various mediums, the IRO Artist Paint Palette Set of 3 is perfect for those seeking a versatile, easy-to-use, and portable palette. Whether you work with watercolors, acrylics, gouache, oils, or even face and body paints, this palette set offers a convenient solution for mixing colors efficiently and keeping your workspace organized.
Pros:
- Includes 3 palettes with 6 round wells each, allowing ample space for mixing multiple colors.
- Lightweight and compact design (3.5 x 5.0 inches, 0.2 inches thick) makes it easy to carry and store.
- Made from durable white plastic that highlights true paint colors for better mixing accuracy.
- Easy to clean, making it suitable for both professional artists and beginners.
- Multi-purpose use for a wide range of painting styles including face and body painting.
Cons:
- The plastic material may not be ideal for use with highly solvent-based paints over extended periods.
- Smaller wells might be limiting for artists who work with large quantities of paint at once.
The IRO Artist Paint Palette Set is thoughtfully designed with 6 round wells on each rectangular tray, providing the perfect space for mixing and blending colors. The white background enhances color visibility, helping artists to achieve accurate tones and shades. Its compact size and lightweight build mean you can easily bring it along to outdoor painting sessions or art classes.
Additionally, the set’s versatility accommodates various painting mediums, from watercolors to oils, making it a great all-around choice. Its easy-to-clean surface helps maintain hygiene and prolongs the palette’s usability, which is especially beneficial for frequent use. Overall, this palette set is an excellent investment for anyone passionate about painting and looking for practicality combined with quality.
To buy this product, click here.
U.s. Art Supply 10-well Plastic Artist Painting Palette
The U.S. Art Supply 10-Well Plastic Artist Painting Palette (Pack of 3) is ideal for art students, classroom settings, craft projects, and party events. If you need a versatile and affordable palette for mixing acrylic, oil, watercolor, or tempera paints, this set is designed to meet those needs efficiently. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned artists looking for convenient and reusable paint trays.
Pros:
- Includes a pack of 3 palettes, providing great value and convenience
- Made of durable white plastic that is easy to clean and lightweight
- Each palette features 10 wells for mixing multiple paint colors simultaneously
- Compact dimensions (6.6 x 9.1 inches) make it portable and easy to handle
- Compatible with a variety of paint types including acrylic, oil, watercolor, and tempera
Cons:
- Plastic material may stain over time with heavy use
- Wells are relatively shallow, which might limit the amount of paint mixed
- Not dishwasher safe, requiring manual cleaning
These 10-well plastic palettes offer a practical solution for artists who want organized space to mix paints without the mess. The multiple wells allow for a variety of colors to be used and blended simultaneously, enhancing creative flexibility. Their lightweight design and sturdy plastic construction make them easy to carry around and durable enough for daily use in classrooms or art studios.
Additionally, the palette’s compatibility with different types of paint such as acrylic, oil, watercolor, and tempera broadens its usability across many artistic techniques. The white surface of the palettes also helps artists accurately judge the true color of their mixed paints, improving the overall painting experience. This set is especially useful for group settings, making it a valuable resource for educators and hobbyists alike.
To buy this product, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Palette For Commercial Illustration?
The best palette for commercial illustration offers multiple wells for color mixing. It should support various paints like watercolor, acrylic, and oil. Durable, leak-proof palettes like Mijello’s Airtight Fusian or the Transon Large Paint Palette box are excellent choices for professionals.
Which Palette Is Leak-proof And Ideal For Watercolor?
Mijello 92-WP3024B Airtight Leak Proof Fusian Watercolor Palette is perfect. It has 24 wells, preventing spills during travel. Its airtight design keeps paints fresh and secure, ideal for watercolor artists working on commercial projects.
Can Disposable Paper Palettes Be Used For Professional Work?
Yes, Zenacolor Paper Palette Pads are practical for professionals. Each sheet is disposable and 80gsm thick, suitable for all paint types. They offer convenience and easy cleanup, making them perfect for fast-paced commercial illustration work.
How Many Color Wells Are Optimal For Mixing Paints?
Palettes with 20 to 72 wells, like the Mijello Double Decker or Creative Mark Porcelain Palette, are ideal. They provide ample space to mix multiple colors separately, enhancing workflow efficiency in commercial illustration.
Are Plastic Palettes Suitable For All Paint Types?
Yes, plastic palettes like U. S. Art Supply’s 17-Well or 10-Well trays work well with acrylic, oil, and watercolor. They are lightweight, easy to clean, and budget-friendly, making them suitable for students and professional illustrators alike.
What Palette Features Benefit Commercial Illustrators Most?
Features like airtight lids, multiple wells, durable materials, and easy cleaning are crucial. Palettes like MAHITOI with 20 wells and varied shapes support detailed color work. These features save time and enhance color accuracy for commercial illustration tasks.
Conclusion
Choosing the best palette for commercial illustration depends on your style and needs. Palettes like the Mijello Airtight Fusian and Zenacolor Paper Pad offer great options for different paints. For more wells and mixing space, the Mijello Double Decker and Transon Large Paint Palette work well.
Beginners may prefer simpler palettes such as the U. S. Art Supply 10-Well or 17-Well sets for easy use and cleaning. Porcelain palettes like the Creative Mark one provide durability and smooth mixing surfaces. Remember, the right palette helps keep colors fresh and organized.
It also makes your workflow smoother and faster. Try a few to see which fits your routine best. Picking the right palette is a small step that can improve your commercial illustration work greatly. Choose wisely for better color control and more enjoyable painting sessions.
