Palette Preparation

I think the Heritage Palettes are terrific! Most art supply store carry them or contact Cheap Joe's Art Stuff. They are small enough to tuck into a zip-lock plastic bag and they have a rubber gasket in the lid so there is less worry about paint leaking out and ruining the stuff in your suitcase! Although they are light-weight they are very sturdy. 

The smallest model has 18 wells and a white inner lid for mixing colour. 
This model also has a clear plastic tray for  mixing. 

How To Modify A Large Heritage Palette

The larger models have a solid blue case that can be easily refashioned to make a palette that is more serviceable and lighter. It only takes a few minutes!

- Remove the white trays and scour the inside of the palette with sandpaper.
- Carefully apply masking tape to edges to protect the rubber gasket and clasp.

- In a well vented area or work outdoors, lightly coat the sanded surface with white spray paint. You will need to use paint that is recommended for plastic such as patio furniture i.e. Krylon Outdoor Spaces Paint.
- Set aside to dry thoroughly, then re-coat with two or three layers.
- Remove the tape and you are all set! Now you can use the new white surface for mixing colour. It is incredibly durable!

You can snap the trays back into the palette and fill the wells with fresh paint.  My choice is to simply squeeze the paint into the palette "as is" and leave the extra pieces at home. Nice and light with plenty of mixing room!