Invite kids to engage in a fun process art activity using a homemade paint palette. This simple palette is easy to make with recycled materials. Promote creative play with this DIY paint tool that supports hands-on fun and learning.

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I can barely draw a straight line, yet I love painting and coloring (especially coloring in a kids coloring book.).

My artistic abilities don't prevent me from picking up paint or crayon to doodle, sketch, outline - for work or play.

Having art tools available in plain sight for kids will inspire them to become creative thinkers too.

This paint palette is fun tool you can make for kids to use in their process art activities. This one is made with a foam plate, but there are other options you can use to make your palette. 

See how we recycled a plastic lid from a sandwich container at the end of the post.

Painting activities - especially open-ended options -  are among the most beneficial things you can do with preschoolers. These activities support early childhood development in many ways, with hands-on learning through play.

The opportunities for fine motor creative play are limitless, not to mention the independent play that is associated with a child-led activity.

Paint palette activity

Art projects that do not have a specific outcome or result (also called process art) are recommended for the early years. This type of art activity provides opportunities for kids to explore materials and use them in ways that are unique to each child.

Related: Prepare for your painting activity with these helpful tips.

Supplies for a homemade paint palette

• Craft paint - 3 or 4 colors
• Paint brushes 
• Foam plate - recyclable
• Marker

Foam plates are not as environmentally friendly as paper plates or cardboard unless they can be recycled in your area. Go for the best use of materials when doing crafts and activities with kids.

Instructions for DIY paint palette

1. Draw a line on the edge of the plate with a permanent marker as shown in the image. 

2. Draw a small circle next to the line.

3. Cut out both the small outlined section and the circle.

4. Add paint colors around the perimeter of the palette.

Show your child how to insert a finger in the hole, then rest the paint palette against the palm of the hand.

Maneuver the paint brush with the other hand.

Use the paint palette in open-ended art activities with a variety of paper and brushes.

The paint colors will probably get mixed on the palette but this is all part of the fun and learning. Kids can observe the results of mixing one or more colors together. 

Related: Mixing paint colors for combined art and science play.

Maybe finger painting will even become part of the creative experience!

Here's a look at a recycled plastic lid doubling as a paint palette!

This lid works well as a palette because it already has a handle attached. It also has an indentation in the middle where two or more paint colors can easily be mixed together.

Even if we can barely draw a straight line, we can provide fun painting experiences for our preschoolers that support their own unique creativity.

The paint palette is a great tool for inspiring the artist in your early learner. 

Painting Activities board on Pinterest