Will A Glass Palette Changing Your Life As An Artist

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When I first started painting with acrylics, I used whatever was nearby as a palette. Old plastic lids, paper plates, the occasional Tupperware lid I hoped no one would notice missing... If it had a flat surface, it was fair game. Eventually, I upgraded to disposable plastic palettes, then to a peel-off pad that I thought was the height of luxury. But once I tried a glass palette? Total game changer.

Now, before I go all-in on singing the praises of glass, let me say this: you absolutely don’t need one to make great art. But it is worth exploring if you’re curious about making your painting process smoother and cleaner—and maybe even a little more fun.

So, what’s the big deal about glass palettes anyway?

First off, they’re reusable. That might not sound glamorous, but if you’ve ever gone through stacks of disposable plates or stained plastic trays, you’ll appreciate the simplicity. With a glass palette, you mix, paint, let it dry, and when you're done? You just scrape it clean. Even dried acrylic pops off with a basic paint scraper and a little water. There’s something really satisfying about cleaning it up—like wiping a chalkboard after a long session of scribbling ideas. That smooth, clean surface is ready for whatever comes next.

Glass is also non-porous, which means your paints won’t soak in or stain the surface. That keeps your colors pure and your mixing more predictable. If you've ever tried blending colors on a stained plastic palette and felt like things just looked...off—you’re not imagining it. A clean, clear surface really does help.

Durability is another thing people don’t talk about enough. A tempered glass palette can last a lifetime if you take care of it. Sure, it’s heavier and more fragile than a disposable or plastic one, but if you store it well—like vertically in a padded drawer or leaned safely against a wall—it’ll hold up beautifully over time.

Now, that said, there are plenty of other palette options out there, and they all have their place depending on how you work.

Plastic palettes, especially the disposable kind, are popular because they’re lightweight and cheap. You can find them anywhere, and they’re great for travel or classroom settings. But they’re not exactly eco-friendly, and they don’t hold up well to long-term use. The reusable plastic ones are a little better, especially if you’re just getting started or sticking to a tight budget. They’re affordable, easy to find, and they work fine for basic mixing. The downside? They stain easily and don’t always clean up as nicely. But honestly, I still have one I use now and then—it’s seen better days, but I love it anyway.

Paper palette pads are another good option if you want something that’s portable and low-maintenance. You just tear off a sheet when you’re done and toss it. Simple. The catch is they don’t offer much mixing space, and they can start to warp if you use too much water or work for long sessions. Still, for quick studies or on-the-go painting, they’re pretty handy.

Then there are ceramic tiles, which I’ve used in a pinch. They’re smooth, washable, and look beautiful on a desk. They can be a bit heavier and usually offer a smaller surface, but they’re a nice in-between if you’re not quite ready for glass. Wood palettes are classic and feel amazing to hold, but they’re not ideal for acrylics since they tend to absorb moisture and can be tricky to clean.

No matter what kind of palette you use, there are a few habits that help you keep it in good shape. The big one? Clean it as you go. Keep a little spray bottle or mister nearby and give your palette a quick spritz now and then. That keeps the paint workable longer and makes cleanup way easier. I also recommend scraping it down after every session—even if it’s just a quick touch-up. It’s one of those small things that makes a big difference over time.

Now, I totally understand if you’re reading this and thinking, “Okay, but I’m not buying a fancy glass palette right now.” You really don’t have to. There are great low-cost alternatives you can try first.

I found these tiles at Goodwill for .99.

One of the easiest DIY tricks is to use a picture frame. Just pop out the backing and use the glass as your palette. You can tape the edges for safety and even slip a piece of neutral-colored paper underneath to help with color mixing. I’ve done this more times than I can count, and it works like a charm. Large ceramic tiles from a hardware store also make excellent palettes—smooth, durable, and easy to clean. And if storage space is tight, peel-off palettes or thin plastic trays from the dollar store can still do the job.

At the end of the day, choosing a palette is more about how you paint than what’s trending or expensive. Glass palettes are amazing—but they’re not the only way to make art. If you love the feel of a plastic palette that’s been with you since your first paint set, keep using it. If cleaning dried paint off a glass surface makes you giddy (guilty), then maybe it’s time to give it a try.

The important thing is that your tools support your process. The right palette makes mixing feel natural, helps you stay in the flow, and invites you back into the studio again and again. Whether it’s glass, tile, plastic, or paper, find the one that fits you.

And if you're still not sure? Try a few. You'll find your favorite soon enough.