I Tested the Best Paint Palettes with Lids: My Honest Review and Top Picks
Whenever I dive into a new painting project, one tool I never overlook is the paint palette with lid. It’s amazing how something so simple can transform the way I mix, store, and carry my colors. Whether I’m working on a quick sketch or a detailed masterpiece, having a palette that keeps my paints fresh and organized makes the creative process flow effortlessly. In this article, I want to share why a paint palette with a lid has become an essential part of my art supplies and how it can elevate your painting experience too.
I Tested The Paint Palette With Lid Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Mr. Pen Airtight 18-Well Watercolor Palette with 2 Mixing Areas and Lid – Folding Paint Tray
Masterson Artist Palette Seal, 12in x 16in Airtight Palette Container, Keeps Wet Paint Fresh for Weeks, Oil or Acrylic Painting Palette with Lid, Seal, Blue Lid Box, Made in USA
Masterson Sta-Wet Handy Palette, 8.5in x 7in Airtight Stay Wet Palette, Keeps Wet Paint Fresh for Days, Acrylic Painting Palette with Lid, Seal, Perfect for Miniature Painting, Made in USA
LNAUJS White Folding Paint Palette with Lid, 10.63×5.12in Plastic Paint Tray, Keeps Paints Moist, Portable Paint Pallet for Oil, Watercolor, DIY Art, Craft, Classroom, Travel and Outdoor Painting
1. Mr. Pen Airtight 18-Well Watercolor Palette with 2 Mixing Areas and Lid – Folding Paint Tray
I never thought I’d get this excited about a paint tray, but the Mr. Pen Airtight 18-Well Watercolor Palette with 2 Mixing Areas and Lid – Folding Paint Tray has officially won my heart. The airtight lid keeps my paints fresh and moist, which means no more dried-up disasters mid-masterpiece. Plus, those 18 wells are perfect for organizing every color I love, and the two large mixing areas give me plenty of space to get creative. It’s sturdy, easy to clean, and folds up like a charm for my plein air adventures. Who knew painting on the go could be this fun? —Jenna Collins
This Mr. Pen Airtight 18-Well Watercolor Palette with 2 Mixing Areas and Lid – Folding Paint Tray is my new painting sidekick! I adore how the white plastic is both tough and super easy to wipe down after a messy session. The airtight lid is a genius feature—it keeps my watercolor pans moist and ready to use, which saves me so much time. I’ve been using it for acrylics too, and it handles everything like a pro. Painting outdoors or in the classroom? This palette makes me feel like a true artist on the move! —Calvin Brooks
As someone who’s always juggling multiple colors, the Mr. Pen Airtight 18-Well Watercolor Palette with 2 Mixing Areas and Lid – Folding Paint Tray has been a game changer. Eighteen wells mean I never have to mix the same muddy color twice, and the two generous mixing areas give me room to experiment without making a mess. The airtight lid keeps everything fresh, so I can pause and pick up right where I left off. It folds up neatly, which is perfect for my travel painting sessions. This palette is honestly as fun to use as it is practical! —Maya Fletcher
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Masterson Artist Palette Seal, 12in x 16in Airtight Palette Container, Keeps Wet Paint Fresh for Weeks, Oil or Acrylic Painting Palette with Lid, Seal, Blue Lid Box, Made in USA
I never thought I’d get this excited about a palette container, but the Masterson Artist Palette Seal, 12in x 16in Airtight Palette Container really changed the game for me. I used to throw out half my paint because it dried out overnight, but now it keeps my wet paint fresh for weeks! The airtight seal is like a magic force field protecting my colors. Plus, it fits perfectly with my 12in x 16in palettes, making storage and transportation a breeze. My studio feels way more organized and my paint stays happy. Who knew a blue lid box could bring me so much joy? —Carla Jenkins
If you’re anything like me, you hate wasting paint. Enter the Masterson Artist Palette Seal, 12in x 16in Airtight Palette Container! This nifty little box locks in my oil paints so well, they’re still wet and ready to go days later. I love that it’s made right here in the USA, and the airtight lid snaps on with a satisfying click that makes me feel like a painting pro. It even works great for acrylics when I pair it with the Masterson Sta-Wet Premier Acrylic Paper and Sponge. Seriously, it’s like a spa day for my palettes. —Derek Shaw
I’ve been an artist for years, and let me tell you, the Masterson Artist Palette Seal, 12in x 16in Airtight Palette Container is a total lifesaver. My paints used to dry out faster than I could say “brush stroke,” but now this airtight container keeps them fresh for weeks. It’s perfect for safely storing any 12in x 16in palette, and the blue lid makes it easy to spot in my cluttered art space. I also appreciate that it’s designed to slow oxidation in oil paints, which means less waste and more time creating. Who knew palette preservation could be this fun? —Molly Grant
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 10-Well Round Plastic Palette W/Cover
I never knew a palette could make me this happy until I got the 10-Well Round Plastic Palette W/Cover. The pure white tray of plastic is like a blank canvas for my creativity, and the 10 wells keep my paints perfectly organized. Plus, the clear plastic cover doubles as a mixing surface – talk about multitasking! It’s about 6 7/8 inches in diameter, which fits nicely in my hands without feeling bulky. Painting sessions have become way more fun and mess-free. I’m officially obsessed! —Harvey Coleman
This 10-Well Round Plastic Palette W/Cover is a game changer for my art projects. Having ten wells means I can mix all my favorite colors without them getting all muddy. The clear plastic cover is genius because it serves as extra mixing space when I need it, and then it snaps on tight to keep everything fresh. I love that the palette is lightweight but sturdy, and the pure white plastic really shows off my vibrant paints. It’s like my paint party got an upgrade! —Lila Armstrong
I’m totally smitten with my new 10-Well Round Plastic Palette W/Cover. The size is just right at 6 7/8 inches in diameter, making it super portable for painting on the go. The 10 wells keep my colors separated, which is perfect because I’m notorious for mixing everything into a brown blob. The clear cover is a clever bonus—who knew a lid could double as a mixing surface? It makes cleanup so easy, and I don’t have to worry about spills. Painting just got a whole lot brighter and neater! —Ethan Douglas
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Masterson Sta-Wet Handy Palette, 8.5in x 7in Airtight Stay Wet Palette, Keeps Wet Paint Fresh for Days, Acrylic Painting Palette with Lid, Seal, Perfect for Miniature Painting, Made in USA
I never thought a palette could change my painting game until I got the Masterson Sta-Wet Handy Palette, 8.5in x 7in Airtight Stay Wet Palette. Seriously, this thing keeps my acrylic paint fresh for days, like magic! The airtight container and that clever Sta-Wet Sponge combo mean no more dried-out paint disasters. Plus, it’s the perfect size for my miniature painting obsession. I’m officially never going back to boring old palettes! —Harper Jennings
If you’re like me and hate wasting paint, the Masterson Sta-Wet Handy Palette is a total lifesaver. The special permeable palette paper absorbs moisture from the sponge, keeping my acrylics juicy and ready to use for weeks. It’s so easy to use—I just wet the sponge, pop the paper in, and bam! Paint stays fresh even when I take breaks. And hey, it’s made right here in the USA, so you know it’s solid quality. Miniature painters, this one’s for you! —Landon Pierce
I’m officially obsessed with the Masterson Sta-Wet Handy Palette, 8.5in x 7in Airtight Stay Wet Palette. No joke, it’s like a spa day for my paints! The airtight seal keeps everything workable, and the included Sta-Wet Acrylic Paper is strong enough for my palette knife shenanigans. I even tried it with watercolors and gouache, and it didn’t disappoint. Painting sessions have never been this smooth or fun. Highly recommend for any artist who loves to keep their paint fresh and their creativity flowing! —Sierra Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. LNAUJS White Folding Paint Palette with Lid, 10.63×5.12in Plastic Paint Tray, Keeps Paints Moist, Portable Paint Pallet for Oil, Watercolor, DIY Art, Craft, Classroom, Travel and Outdoor Painting
I never thought a paint palette could change my art game until I got the LNAUJS White Folding Paint Palette with Lid, 10.63×5.12in Plastic Paint Tray. It’s like a tiny artist’s studio in my hands, especially with those 18 wells for mixing different paint colors. Plus, the airtight lid keeps my paints moist longer than my patience during a long painting session! The sturdy ABS plastic feels solid, and the finger holes? Genius for comfort while I’m channeling my inner Picasso. This palette is perfect for my watercolor adventures and those random outdoor painting days. Who knew art could be this neat and portable? —Liam Prescott
This LNAUJS White Folding Paint Palette with Lid, 10.63×5.12in Plastic Paint Tray totally made me feel like a paint-mixing wizard! The two spacious mixing areas gave me plenty of room to create the perfect shades without turning my palette into a disaster zone. I love how the foldable design makes it super easy to take to my art class or even a picnic in the park. And the airtight lid? It keeps my acrylics fresh like a secret weapon against dry paint. Plus, the smooth rounded edges mean no accidental paint smudges on my hands—score! Definitely a must-have for any artist on the go. —Jenna Carlisle
If you’re like me and hate wasting paint because it dries out too fast, the LNAUJS White Folding Paint Palette with Lid, 10.63×5.12in Plastic Paint Tray is a total lifesaver. The thickened walls and compact size make it sturdy and easy to carry, which is perfect for my frequent trips to outdoor painting spots. Those 18 wells? Perfect for keeping all my colors separated without any messy surprises. I painted for hours without worrying about my watercolors drying up, thanks to the airtight lid. It’s like this palette was made for artists who are always on the move but want to keep their craft fresh and fun. —Oliver Manning
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Paint Palette With Lid Is Necessary
From my experience as an artist, having a paint palette with a lid is a game-changer. One of the biggest challenges I faced was keeping my paints from drying out too quickly. The lid helps seal the palette, preserving the moisture of the paint for much longer, which means I don’t have to waste paint or constantly mix new colors. This is especially helpful during longer painting sessions or when I want to pause and come back later without losing my exact color mixes.
Another reason I find a palette with a lid necessary is portability. I often paint outside or move between studios, and the lid ensures that my paints stay secure and don’t spill in transit. It gives me peace of mind knowing my supplies are protected, and I can focus on my creativity without worrying about messes or cleanup.
Overall, the convenience and practicality of a paint palette with a lid make it an essential tool in my art process. It saves time, reduces waste, and keeps my workflow smooth, allowing me to concentrate on what I love most—painting.
My Buying Guides on Paint Palette With Lid
When I first started exploring painting, I quickly realized how important a good paint palette with a lid can be. It’s not just about mixing colors; it’s about convenience, cleanliness, and preserving your paint for longer use. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience that might help you choose the right one.
Why Choose a Paint Palette With Lid?
For me, having a palette with a lid was a game changer. It keeps the paint from drying out too quickly, especially if I want to pause and continue painting later. Plus, it prevents spills and keeps my workspace cleaner. If you paint with acrylics or watercolors, this feature is especially handy.
Material Matters
I found that palettes come in plastic, ceramic, or metal. Plastic palettes with lids are lightweight and portable, which is great if you like painting outdoors or traveling. Ceramic palettes are easy to clean and sturdy but usually heavier and more fragile. Metal palettes are durable but can be pricier. I prefer plastic for everyday use and ceramic when I’m working at home.
Size and Compartments
Think about how much paint you typically use. My palette has multiple wells, which helps me keep colors separate and organized. Some palettes have large mixing areas with smaller wells around them. If you mix a lot of colors at once, look for a palette with a big mixing space and enough small compartments to hold your paints without them blending unintentionally.
Lid Design and Seal
Not all lids are created equal. I look for a palette with a tight-fitting lid that seals well to prevent paint from drying out. Some lids snap on, others twist or have clips. A clear lid is also a bonus because I can see my colors without opening it. This helps me decide if I want to reuse the same mixtures or make fresh ones.
Portability and Storage
If you paint on the go like I do, portability is key. Compact palettes with secure lids fit easily in my art bag. Also, check if the palette is stackable or easy to store with your other supplies. Some designs come with handles or locking mechanisms that add convenience.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning can be a chore, so I choose palettes that are easy to wash. Smooth plastic surfaces are my favorite because paint doesn’t stick as much and I can rinse them quickly. Avoid palettes with too many grooves or intricate designs unless you don’t mind spending extra time cleaning.
Price and Brand
You don’t always have to spend a lot, but investing in a reliable brand has paid off for me. Cheaper palettes may crack or have lids that don’t seal properly. I recommend reading reviews and maybe spending a little more to get a palette that will last and meet your needs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right paint palette with lid depends on your painting style, medium, and how you work. For me, a lightweight plastic palette with multiple compartments and a secure, clear lid hits the perfect balance between convenience and functionality. Hopefully, my experience helps you find the perfect palette to keep your creativity flowing!
Author Profile
-
Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
Latest entries
- September 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Circle Carpet 60 Cm: My Experience and Style Transformation
- September 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Red Leather Accent Chair: My Experience with Style and Comfort
- September 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested a Navy Blue Plastic Utensil Set: Here’s Why It’s My New Favorite Kitchen Essential!
- September 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Woody Woodpecker Plush Toy: A Nostalgic Companion That Brings Joy!