Creating a Self-Made Wet Palette for Acrylic

7/5/20252 min read

DIY Wet Palettes

A wet palette is an essential tool for any acrylic painter wishing to maintain the longevity and usability of their paint. Unlike standard palettes that dry out quickly, a wet palette keeps your acrylic paints moist, allowing for longer painting sessions without the need for constant reapplication. I just tried own self-made wet palette, an efficient and cost-effective solution for your art studio.

Materials Required for Your Wet Palette

To create a self-made wet palette, you will need a few simple materials. The primary components include a shallow container with a lid, a piece of absorbent paper (such as a sponge or a cellulose pad), and parchment paper or wet palette paper. The container will serve as the base of your palette, while the absorbent material will provide moisture. The parchment paper will act as the surface for placing your acrylics.

I used some kitchen paper towels as the first layer and a piece of baking paper on top of it as my mixing palette, and a cookie tin as my container, I just used what I can get at home and I think the result turned out pretty well!

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the materials:

  • Shallow container: Any shallow, airtight plastic container would suffice.

  • Absorbent material: A sponge, paper towel, or any moisture-retaining material.

  • Parchment paper: This is placed on top of the absorbent material to keep your paints from mixing and ensure a smooth application.

The wet palette works by trapping moisture between the absorbent material and the parchment paper, creating a humid environment that prevents your acrylic paints from drying out quickly. It is crucial to maintain the moisture levels by checking the absorbent layer regularly and adding water as needed.

Overall, a self-made wet palette is an invaluable resource for acrylic painters, enhancing your painting experience by keeping your paints fresh and workable. By following the easy steps outlined above, you can craft your own wet palette that effectively meets your artistic needs. Invest a little time in creating this tool, and you will undoubtedly see improvements in the quality of your acrylic work.