Arts & Crafts

The Best Palette Cups

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Palette cups are essential tools for artists, providing a convenient way to hold paints, solvents, and mediums. Selecting the right cup can significantly streamline your workflow, prevent spills, and keep your workspace tidy. Investing in quality palette cups ensures durability and functionality for countless painting sessions.

No. 1
Stainless Steel Double Dipper Palette Cup with Screw Lid and Clip Oil Container for Acrylic or Oil Paint
  • Package includes 1 unit of Stainless Steel Double Dipper Palette Cup Oil Container for Acrylic or Oil Paint
  • Made of metal, design with a bottom clip that slides over the edge of your palette.
  • Dimension: Length 3.8 inch Height 1.2 inch, Diameter of container 1.8 inch
  • Equipped with sealed lids, so you can use them for both storing and mixing.
No. 2
LEIFIDE 3 Pcs Stainless Steel Oil Paint Palette Cups, Drum Shape
  • Quantity: you will receive 3 paint cups, providing ample space for use and replacement
  • Dimensions: the cups are 1-3/4 inches (4.5 cm) in diameter, 1-3/16 inches (3 cm) deep, and have an opening diameter of 1-3/8 inches (3.5 cm), making them nice for outdoor painting
  • Nice Quality Materials: the paint cups are made of stainless steel, which resists oxidation and rust, making them durable and long-lasting; The nuts contain rubber washers to prevent dust and leaks, effectively preventing oil-based paints from drying out
  • Easy to Use: the wide-mouth design makes it easy to use, and the lid of the palette features a secure clip that clips onto the edge of the palette, securing solvents and paints while painting and making it easy to carry
No. 3
MyLifeUNIT Large Mouth Double Dipper Palette Cup
  • Sturdy Stainless Steel – Double dipper palette cup features two separate wells, each with a wide mouth. Made of durable stainless steel that resists rust and cracking. Whether you’re painting plein air, in studio, or at art class, it stays solid and...
  • Leak-proof Lids – Each palette cup comes with a screw-on lid and silicone gasket. Prevents leaks and spills when moving your palette in the studio or outdoors
  • Double Cup Design – Hold linseed oil and thinner at the same time, or water on one side and medium on the other. Great for oil painters, watercolorists, and craft artists
  • Compact & Portable – Paint cup is intentionally small: 3.5"W, 1.6" Dia. per cup, 1.2"H. Easy storage in the art kit, and minimal clutter on the palette. Perfect for short painting sessions, travel, or studio use
No. 4
Double Dipper Palette Cup, Stainless Steel Oil Painting Pot Container with Screw Lid and Clip, Palettes...
  • Package & Size: 1pcs double dipper palette cup; Size: 90 x 30 mm/ 3.54 x 1.18 inch; Diameter: 40 mm/ 1.57 inch
  • Made of: The palette cup is made of stainless steel material, sturdy, rust resistant, no leaks, long service life
  • Good Sealing: The palette cup is designed with screw seal lid, can help minimize spills, and effectively prevent mediums evaporation or dry out
  • Bottom Clip: A sturdy clip on the bottom of the palette cup allows for easy attachment to the edge of palette, ensure stability during the painting process and facilitate painting
No. 5
QWORK 2 Pack Stainless Steel Double Palette Cup with Screw Lid, 1.6" Wide Mouth Oil Paint Dipper with Bottom...
  • SECURE CLIP ATTACHMENT: Features a heavy-duty bottom clip that slides onto the edge of your palette. Keep your solvents and oils within reach without worrying about tipping or sliding during work.
  • REINFORCED STAINLESS STEEL: Crafted from rust-resistant stainless steel for long-term reliability. The heavy-duty build withstands frequent use with various painting mediums and harsh cleaning solvents.
  • MULTI-MEDIUM COMPATIBILITY: Ideal for holding turpentine, linseed oil, or water. Essential for oil painting, gouache, and acrylic techniques in professional studios, art schools, or outdoor sessions.
  • LEAK-PROOF SCREW LIDS: Integrated rubber gaskets within the threaded caps prevent messy spills. The airtight seal keeps your liquids contained during transport and prevents rapid evaporation.
No. 6
YGAOHF 36 Pcs Empty Paint Pots, Small Paint Containers with Lids, Easy Open Acrylic Paint Cups with Lid Paint...
  • 5 ML LARGE PAINT POTS WITH LIDS: You will get 6 strips of large empty paint pots, total 36 pots. Each pot is about 5 ml/0.17 oz in capacity
  • EASY TO OPEN & CLOSE, NICE SEALING: Double-tab design makes the paint pots easier to open and close. The well-designed lid fits the empty paint strips better, which provides excellent water and dust resistance, keeping the paint clean
  • LIGHTWEIGHT & PORTABLE, CONVENIENT: 6 paint pots for each strip, you can cut through the middle to get 2 strips of 3 pots or other amounts. These paint pot strips are lightweight and easy to store, and convenient to carry around when going out or...
  • RELIABLE & REUSABLE, KEEP THE PAINTS FRESH: Made of premium polyethylene with proper thickness and lightweight, not easy to break. High transparency and compact in size. Close the lid, your paint will keep fresh for weeks
No. 7
AUEAR, 2 Pack Stainless Steel Oil Painting Double Palette Cup with Screw Lid Dipper Clip for Watercolor...
  • Feature: Double Cup Design and a Bottom Clip That Slides Over The Edge of Your Palette
  • Apply To: Used For Oil Painting and Other Paintings to Hold Turpentine, Linseed Oil, and Other Mediums
  • Material: The Palette Cup with Clip Made of Stainless Steel Material, This Palette Cup Are Rust Resistant
  • What Will You Get: 2 Pcs Double Palette Cup
No. 8
Honbay Stainless Steel Large Mouth Single Dipper Pallete Cup
  • Qty: 1pcs
  • It has a plastic gasket that seals tightly; Wide mouth for easy access
  • Features a bottom clip that slides over the edge of your palette
  • "Cup measures 1-3/4""(4.5cm) in diameter x 1-3/16""(3cm) deep, with an opening diameter of 1-3/8""(3.5cm)"
No. 9
2Pcs Stainless Steel Single Dipper Palette Cup with Screw Lid and Clip Oil Paint Container for Acrylic or Oil...
  • DURABLE STAINLESS STEEL: Each palette cup is crafted from high-quality stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting use and easy cleaning after every painting session.
  • SECURE SCREW LID: The tight-fitting screw lid keeps your acrylic or oil paints fresh and prevents spills, making storage between sessions clean and hassle-free.
  • CONVENIENT CLIP ATTACHMENT: The built-in clip attaches securely to the edge of your palette, keeping your paint container stable and within easy reach while you work.
  • VERSATILE USE: Compatible with acrylic, oil, and other liquid painting mediums, these cups are ideal for holding paint, mediums, solvents, or water.
No. 10
3 Piece Large Mouth Single Dipper Palette Cups
  • It is made of stainless steel,not easy to rust and wear.
  • Wide mouth for easy access with a leakproof screw cap.
  • Features a bottom clip that slides over the edge of your palette, to hold solvents and oils during painting, convenient to carry.
  • You can take it with you for outdoor painting,suitable for medium size oil painting.

Last update on 2026-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to Choose the Best Palette Cups

Understanding Palette Cup Materials

  • Plastic: Lightweight, affordable, and easy to clean, plastic cups are a popular choice. Look for sturdy, BPA-free plastics that won't easily crack or degrade with solvent exposure.
  • Stainless Steel: Durable, non-reactive, and resistant to most solvents, stainless steel cups offer excellent longevity. They are heavier than plastic but provide a premium feel and exceptional resistance to staining.
  • Ceramic: Often featuring a smooth, non-porous surface, ceramic cups are elegant and easy to clean. However, they can be fragile and prone to chipping or breaking if dropped.

Key Features to Consider

  • Lid Design: A tight-fitting lid is crucial for preventing paint from drying out or solvents from evaporating. Some lids have rubber seals for enhanced protection against leaks and spills.
  • Base Stability: A wide, flat base prevents the cup from tipping over, especially when placed on an easel or a crowded work surface.
  • Compartments: Some palette cups feature multiple compartments, allowing artists to separate different colors or mediums, which is particularly useful for detailed work or color mixing.
  • Size and Capacity: Consider the amount of paint or solvent you typically use. Smaller cups are suitable for detail work, while larger ones are better for extensive mixing.

Portability and Travel

For artists who paint on the go, portability is a key factor. Look for cups that are lightweight, have secure lids to prevent leaks during transport, and perhaps come in a compact set. Some sets are designed to nest together for easy storage and carrying.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Easy cleaning is paramount. Materials like stainless steel and glazed ceramic are generally the easiest to wipe clean. Plastic cups may require more thorough scrubbing if paint dries on them. Always ensure cups are completely dry before storing to prevent mold or mildew.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are palette cups used for?
Palette cups are primarily used to hold small amounts of liquid art materials such as oil paints, mediums, solvents, and water. They keep these liquids separate and accessible while you paint, preventing spills on your main palette or workspace.
Are plastic palette cups safe for solvents?
Most durable plastic cups made from materials like polypropylene are generally safe for short-term use with common solvents like turpentine or odorless mineral spirits. However, prolonged exposure can degrade some plastics, so stainless steel or ceramic might be a better long-term investment for heavy solvent users.
How do I clean dried paint from a palette cup?
For oil paints, you can often use the appropriate solvent (like turpentine or mineral spirits) to soften and remove dried paint. For acrylics, dried paint can be more challenging; soaking in warm, soapy water or using a plastic scraper might be necessary. Stainless steel and ceramic are generally easier to clean than plastic.
Should I choose a palette cup with a lid?
Yes, a lid is highly recommended, especially if you use solvents or want to prevent your paints from drying out between painting sessions. A secure lid minimizes evaporation, reduces the risk of spills, and keeps your materials fresh.
What is the advantage of multi-compartment palette cups?
Multi-compartment cups allow you to keep different colors or mediums separate. This is useful for precise color mixing, keeping clean solvent separate from dirty solvent, or holding various glazes and washes without contamination.
Are ceramic palette cups durable enough for regular use?
Ceramic cups can be durable if handled with care, especially those with a good glaze. However, they are more prone to chipping or breaking if dropped compared to stainless steel or robust plastic options. They are best suited for studio use where the risk of impact is lower.

How we compare Arts & Crafts

1 Specifications: we compare the key features and specifications listed by the manufacturer and on Amazon.
2 Customer ratings: we take into account the average Amazon rating and the number of reviews.
3 Price: we check the current price and highlight notable deals.
4 Updates: comparisons are refreshed regularly as prices and availability change.

Our comparisons are reviewed and updated regularly to reflect the latest products and prices.

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