A wet palette is a tool that is used to keep acrylic paint moist for longer. For this reason, it is very useful for painting miniature models.
What is a Wet Palette?
A wet palette is a palette that has a damp sponge or pad underneath a special sheet of paper. This moisture allows the paint to remain wet for longer, rather then drying very quickly as acrylic paint usually does.
What is a Wet Palette Used For?
A wet palette is used to keep paint workable, making it easier to mix and to help allow smooth layers of base coat to be applied to models.
Do Beginners Need a Wet Palette
Not immediately. If you are new to painting models, a normal palette is absolutely fine to start. A wet palette may, however, be worth it if you find that your paint is always drying too quickly, or if you paint over the course of a long session.
Wet Palette vs Normal Palette
Whilst a normal palette is just a simple surface that allows paint to sit on it, a wet palette has a damp sponge or pad under special paper, to slow down the usually fast drying process of acrylic paint.
Can You Make a DIY Wet Palette?
Yes, you can! You can use a shallow container, sponge, or damp paper towel, along with suitable palette paper (do not use regular paper).
Common Beginner Mistakes
Mistakes beginners often make include:
- Making the palette too wet
- Leaving paint on the palette for too long
- Using the wrong type of paper
- Neglecting to paint the acrylic on thinly enough
Final Thoughts
Whilst a wet palette is useful, it is not an absolute essential tool for miniature painting beginners. You can start off with a normal palette and switch to a wet palette if you find that your paint is drying too quickly.
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