7 Best Paint Palette Trays For Mixing Custom Colors

Mixing custom paint colors is a task that frequently turns messy when the right equipment is missing from the supply closet. Having a reliable, stable vessel ensures that the color stays consistent from the first brushstroke to the last. Choosing the right tray or pail transforms a tedious chore into a controlled, efficient home improvement project.

Wooster Pelican Pail: Best for Painting on the Go

When navigating a ladder or moving between multiple rooms in a home, stability is the primary concern. The Pelican Pail features a built-in handle that keeps the paint centered, reducing the risk of accidental spills on carpet or hardwood floors.

Because the shape is deep rather than wide, it is ideal for those who prefer to keep their paint secure while moving around a workspace. The integrated magnet for holding a brush is a thoughtful detail that prevents bristles from drying out while taking a break.

The bottom line: Choose this if portability and security on a ladder are higher priorities than large-scale surface coverage.

HANDy Paint Tray: Best Large Capacity Floor Tray

Large floor-based projects, such as painting a living room or a long hallway, require a tray that holds enough paint to minimize frequent refills. The HANDy Paint Tray provides an expansive basin that accommodates standard 9-inch rollers comfortably.

Its sturdy design prevents the bowing often seen in cheaper plastic alternatives, which can lead to uneven paint distribution. The reinforced sides also make it easier to pick up and move without the walls flexing and spilling wet paint.

The bottom line: This is the workhorse for DIYers tackling whole rooms, offering the right balance of volume and structural integrity.

Leaktite Multi-Mix Pail: Best for Accurate Mixing

Achieving a perfect custom color often requires mixing two different cans of paint, which demands a vessel with accurate measurement markings. The Leaktite Multi-Mix Pail takes the guesswork out of combining ratios, as it features clearly printed volume increments on the interior.

Because these pails are shaped like standard buckets, they are far easier to seal and store if the custom mix isn’t finished in one session. They also provide enough vertical height to prevent splashing while using a power-drill paint mixer.

The bottom line: Use this vessel when precision is mandatory and the mixed paint needs to be stored for later use.

Bercom HANDy Paint Cup: Best for Small Touch-Ups

Small projects like painting trim, touch-ups around baseboards, or refreshing door frames do not require heavy, cumbersome trays. The Bercom HANDy Paint Cup is a palm-sized solution that allows the user to hold the paint directly, making it perfect for quick jobs.

The adjustable strap ensures a snug fit, leaving the other hand free to steady oneself on a step stool or to wipe away stray marks. It is significantly more convenient than dragging a full-sized tray from room to room for minor repairs.

The bottom line: Invest in this for those frequent “five-minute” home maintenance tasks where mobility is everything.

Wooster Speed Bucket: Best for Full Gallon Jobs

When the project scope involves a full gallon of paint, transferring the liquid into a dedicated container saves time and prevents contamination of the main can. The Wooster Speed Bucket is designed to hold a full gallon with room to spare for a roller screen.

The bucket design is inherently more spill-resistant than traditional shallow trays, making it a safer bet in homes with pets or active children. It acts as a reliable reservoir that keeps the paint fresh and accessible throughout the entire painting day.

The bottom line: This is the smart choice for those who prefer to keep their primary paint supply clean and organized while working on large areas.

Shur-Line 9-Inch Metal Tray: Best for Durability

Plastic trays can crack or become warped over time, but a metal tray remains rigid regardless of the paint type or the temperature of the room. The Shur-Line 9-Inch Metal Tray is a classic, durable option that resists bending even after years of heavy use.

While it is heavier than plastic alternatives, that extra weight provides a grounded stability that won’t slide across a drop cloth. Many homeowners appreciate the longevity of metal, as it avoids the cycle of replacing cheap, flimsy trays after every project.

The bottom line: Select metal if the goal is to buy one tool that will last for decades, provided the user is diligent about cleaning it properly.

U.S. Art Supply Palette: Best for Small Color Tests

Deciding on the right wall color involves testing multiple shades before committing to a full gallon, which is where small mixing palettes shine. This palette allows for mixing tiny quantities of paint to see how different colors interact under various lighting conditions.

It is particularly useful for artists or those performing intricate stencil work where fine control is more important than volume. The individual wells prevent colors from bleeding into one another, ensuring the accuracy of each test.

The bottom line: Keep this in the supplies kit specifically for sampling and planning phases before the main painting begins.

Plastic, Metal, or Liners: Which Tray Is for You?

The decision between plastic and metal usually comes down to frequency of use versus long-term maintenance. Metal trays are environmentally friendly and nearly indestructible, but they require a more intensive cleaning process to prevent rust and buildup.

Plastic trays are cost-effective and lightweight, making them easier to manage for one-off projects. However, they are prone to scratching, and once the surface is compromised, they become harder to clean thoroughly.

Liners offer a middle-ground solution that prioritizes convenience over sustainability. They allow for an immediate project restart without the need for water-intensive washing, which is a major benefit for those who are tight on space or lack access to a utility sink.

Cleaning Your Tray: Tips for Latex and Oil Paints

Cleaning a tray properly is the secret to making any paint tool last through multiple seasons. For water-based latex paints, a thorough rinse with warm, soapy water while the paint is still wet usually suffices for plastic trays.

Oil-based paints require more caution, as they cannot be washed down a standard household drain. These trays should be wiped clean with the appropriate solvent—typically mineral spirits—and the residue should be disposed of according to local hazardous waste regulations.

Always avoid using harsh metal scrapers on plastic trays, as they create gouges where dried paint will accumulate in the future. A simple, stiff-bristled brush is usually the most effective way to reach into corners without damaging the integrity of the tray.

How to Save Leftover Custom-Mixed Paint Colors

Leftover paint is inevitable, but keeping it in a usable state requires airtight storage to prevent the formation of a “skin” on the surface. If the paint was mixed in a standard gallon can, replace the lid and use a rubber mallet to ensure a tight seal.

For custom mixes stored in separate pails, ensure the rim is wiped clean of any drips before sealing; even small amounts of dried debris can compromise the seal. Once sealed, store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and always label the lid with the date and room location.

If there is only a small amount left, pouring it into a smaller, appropriately sized glass or plastic jar can reduce the air volume inside and prolong its shelf life. This prevents the paint from drying out as quickly as it would in a half-empty gallon can.

Careful selection of paint accessories is a simple way to elevate the quality of any DIY project. Whether choosing a heavy-duty metal tray for longevity or a portable cup for quick touch-ups, the right tool makes the work smoother and the results more professional. Always prioritize storage and maintenance to ensure that every investment serves the household for years to come.