Let’s get colorful! In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to draw a cartoon-style watercolor paint palette that’s perfect for little artists and creative kids. With simple shapes and a sweet smile, this step-by-step guide will walk you through sketching your own set of paints. Whether you’re just starting or love drawing school supplies, this cute watercolor drawing is a perfect creative project!

Final colored drawing of a cute cartoon watercolor palette with colorful paints and a happy face, for young artists.

What You Need:

A pencil
An eraser
A black marker (for outlining)
Coloring tools (crayons, markers, or colored pencils)
Drawing paper

Step by Step Watercolor Palette Drawing Instructions

Step 1 – Draw the Main Rectangle Tray

Step 1 of how to draw a watercolor palette – Drawing a large rounded rectangle for the palette's base tray.

Start by drawing a large rounded rectangle. This will be the base tray that holds all your watercolor paints.

Step 2 – Add the Inner Tray Line

Step 2 of drawing a watercolor palette – Adding a slightly smaller inner rectangle to create a border for the palette.

Inside the first rectangle, draw a slightly smaller rectangle. This creates a border around the edge of the palette.

Step 3 – Divide the Palette in Half

Step 3 of sketching a watercolor palette for beginners – Drawing a horizontal line across the inner rectangle's middle.

Draw one straight horizontal line across the middle of the inner rectangle. This will separate the top row of paint pans from the bottom.

Step 4 – Draw the First Row of Paint Circles

Step 4 of step-by-step watercolor palette sketch – Drawing five circles above the center line for the top paint row.

Now draw five equally spaced circles above the center line. These are your watercolor paint pans—try to make them the same size.

Step 5 – Add the Second Row of Paint Circles

Step 5 of easy watercolor palette drawing steps – Adding five circles below the center line for the bottom paint row.

Below the line, draw another row of five matching circles. Now you’ve got a full set of ten watercolor paints!

Step 6 – Give Your Palette a Cute Face

Step 6 of simple watercolor palette drawing tutorial – Drawing two dot eyes and a curved smile for a cute palette face.

Let’s make it fun! Draw two small dots for eyes and a curved smile below the paint circles. Your watercolor set is now full of character!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I color each circle a different shade?
Yes! That’s the best part—use red, yellow, blue, green, purple, and more to create a real rainbow palette.

What other art supplies can I draw next to this?
You can add a paintbrush, a cup of water, or even a sketchbook for a complete art scene.

What if my circles aren’t perfectly round?
No problem! Handmade art doesn’t have to be perfect. Just keep practicing and have fun.

Is this a good project for young children?
Absolutely! It’s beginner-friendly and great for preschoolers, elementary kids, and anyone new to drawing.

Printable Drawing Tutorials

Download Printable How to draw a watercolor palette Drawing Tutorials

You Did It!

Fantastic job drawing your watercolor palette! Doesn’t it look ready to paint a masterpiece? You can personalize your drawing by coloring the paints, naming your set, or adding fun doodles around it. Show off your art, try the tutorial again with different expressions, and keep creating with confidence and color!

How to Draw a Cute Watercolor Palette Step by Step – Fun Drawing Guide for Young Artists