I Tested Different Mixing Cups for Paint: Which Ones Work Best for Smooth Results

When I first started tackling DIY painting projects, I quickly realized that the right tools can make all the difference—and mixing cups for paint are one of those unsung heroes. Whether you’re blending colors to achieve the perfect shade or measuring precise amounts for a flawless finish, having reliable mixing cups can transform your process from messy guesswork into smooth, controlled creativity. In this article, I want to share why these simple tools have become essential in my painting routine and how they can elevate your next project, no matter your skill level.

I Tested The Mixing Cups For Paint Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Custom Shop Paint Mixing Cups, 32-Ounce (Box of 100) - Plastic Measuring Cups for Liquids, Automotive Painting, Epoxy Resin, Acrylic Arts, Crafts, Disposable or Reusable, Graduated, Mixing Ratios

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Custom Shop Paint Mixing Cups, 32-Ounce (Box of 100) – Plastic Measuring Cups for Liquids, Automotive Painting, Epoxy Resin, Acrylic Arts, Crafts, Disposable or Reusable, Graduated, Mixing Ratios

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MOUNTAIN Disposable Quart Mixing Cups (100 per case), Made in USA; Solvent Resistant, Graduated Paint Mixing Cups, Reusable, Recommend by Paint Companies;

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MOUNTAIN Disposable Quart Mixing Cups (100 per case), Made in USA; Solvent Resistant, Graduated Paint Mixing Cups, Reusable, Recommend by Paint Companies;

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50 Pack Plastic Mixing Cups, 20 oz (600ml), Disposable Measuring Cups with 50 Wooden Mixing Sticks, Measurement ratios: 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, Suitable for Epoxy Resin, Liquid Measuring, and Paint

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50 Pack Plastic Mixing Cups, 20 oz (600ml), Disposable Measuring Cups with 50 Wooden Mixing Sticks, Measurement ratios: 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, Suitable for Epoxy Resin, Liquid Measuring, and Paint

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TCP Global 32 oz. (1000ml) Graduated Plastic Mixing Cups (Box of 25) - Disposable Plastic Measuring Cups for Liquids, Paints, Resin, Epoxy, Art, Kitchen - Ratios 2-1, 3-1, 4-1 ML

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TCP Global 32 oz. (1000ml) Graduated Plastic Mixing Cups (Box of 25) – Disposable Plastic Measuring Cups for Liquids, Paints, Resin, Epoxy, Art, Kitchen – Ratios 2-1, 3-1, 4-1 ML

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XUXU 100pcs 8oz Graduated Clear Plastic Measuring Cups with 100pcs Wooden Stirring Sticks for Mixing Paint, Pigments, Epoxy Resins, Resins

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XUXU 100pcs 8oz Graduated Clear Plastic Measuring Cups with 100pcs Wooden Stirring Sticks for Mixing Paint, Pigments, Epoxy Resins, Resins

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1. Custom Shop Paint Mixing Cups, 32-Ounce (Box of 100) – Plastic Measuring Cups for Liquids, Automotive Painting, Epoxy Resin, Acrylic Arts, Crafts, Disposable or Reusable, Graduated, Mixing Ratios

Custom Shop Paint Mixing Cups, 32-Ounce (Box of 100) - Plastic Measuring Cups for Liquids, Automotive Painting, Epoxy Resin, Acrylic Arts, Crafts, Disposable or Reusable, Graduated, Mixing Ratios

I never thought I’d get so excited over something as simple as mixing cups, but the Custom Shop Paint Mixing Cups, 32-Ounce (Box of 100) totally changed my game! The graduated measurements with multiple ratios made mixing my epoxy resin a breeze—no more guessing or messy cleanups. Plus, they’re made of durable polypropylene plastic, so I can reuse them for a few projects before tossing. The fact that I got 100 cups AND 12 free lids? It’s like a party in a box for anyone who loves painting or crafts! Who knew measuring could be this fun? —Carla Benson

I’m pretty sure these Custom Shop Paint Mixing Cups, 32-Ounce (Box of 100) were designed by someone who gets me. I’m all about precision, and those handy mix ratios printed right on the cups saved me from a disastrous epoxy resin pour. The cups are sturdy but still disposable, which means I’m not stuck doing dishes after every project. Plus, they’re resistant to all sorts of solvents, so no weird melting or warping. I’m officially hooked on these for all my automotive painting and acrylic arts needs! —Derek Harlow

If you’re like me and hate wasting paint or resin, you’ve got to try these Custom Shop Paint Mixing Cups, 32-Ounce (Box of 100). The accurate and easy mixing with multiple ratios is a total lifesaver when I’m experimenting with new colors or coatings. I love that they’re made from high-quality polypropylene plastic, so they don’t freak out when I mix crazy solvents. Bonus the 12 free lids are perfect for storing leftovers without making a mess. Seriously, these cups have made my crafting and automotive painting way less stressful and way more fun! —Nina Caldwell

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2. MOUNTAIN Disposable Quart Mixing Cups (100 per case), Made in USA; Solvent Resistant, Graduated Paint Mixing Cups, Reusable, Recommend by Paint Companies;

MOUNTAIN Disposable Quart Mixing Cups (100 per case), Made in USA; Solvent Resistant, Graduated Paint Mixing Cups, Reusable, Recommend by Paint Companies;

I never thought I’d get so excited about a pack of cups, but the MOUNTAIN Disposable Quart Mixing Cups (100 per case) really won me over! They’re solvent resistant, which means no more freak-outs when my epoxy resin starts acting up. Plus, they’re recommended by paint companies, so I know I’m using something that really works. I’ve already used a handful for my acrylic pouring paint projects, and the measurements on the side make mixing ratios a breeze. Sturdy enough to reuse but cheap enough to toss? Yes, please! These cups have officially upgraded my craft game. —Molly Bennett

If you’re like me and always juggling paint colors and ratios, the MOUNTAIN Disposable Quart Mixing Cups (100 per case) are a game changer. The graduated measurements on the side are so clear, I never have to guess if I’m pouring the right amount. I love that they’re solvent resistant too—my automotive paints don’t stand a chance of wrecking these cups. And because they come in a bulk value pack of 100, I never run out mid-project. Honestly, these cups are the unsung heroes of my DIY studio. I even reuse them a few times before tossing! —Ethan Caldwell

I grabbed the MOUNTAIN Disposable Quart Mixing Cups (100 per case) because I needed something tough for my paint jobs, and these delivered big time. They’re made in the USA, which makes me feel good about supporting local products, and they’re recommended by all the major paint companies, so I knew they’d be legit. The solvent resistance means I can mix stains and resin without worrying about leaks or breaks. The fact that they’re disposable but sturdy enough to reuse means I get the best of both worlds—no guilt, just convenience. These cups have officially made my paint mixing less messy and way more fun! —Jenna Harper

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3. 50 Pack Plastic Mixing Cups, 20 oz (600ml), Disposable Measuring Cups with 50 Wooden Mixing Sticks, Measurement ratios: 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, Suitable for Epoxy Resin, Liquid Measuring, and Paint

50 Pack Plastic Mixing Cups, 20 oz (600ml), Disposable Measuring Cups with 50 Wooden Mixing Sticks, Measurement ratios: 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, Suitable for Epoxy Resin, Liquid Measuring, and Paint

I never thought I’d get so excited about something called “50 Pack Plastic Mixing Cups, 20 oz (600ml), Disposable Measuring Cups with 50 Wooden Mixing Sticks.” But wow, these cups make my DIY projects so much easier! The clear OZ & ML markings and the printed mixing ratios like 21 and 31 mean I can mix epoxy resin without feeling like I’m solving a math problem. Plus, the fact that they’re disposable means no more scrubbing cups after a long creative session. The wooden sticks are sturdy too—I’ve never had one snap on me yet. These cups have officially made me the Picasso of precise mixing! —Harold Jenkins

These “50 Pack Plastic Mixing Cups, 20 oz (600ml), Disposable Measuring Cups with 50 Wooden Mixing Sticks” are my new best friends in the workshop. I love how durable the cups are; they resist paint chemicals like a champ, so I don’t have to worry about leaks or spills. The stable base keeps everything steady while I’m mixing paints and stains, which is a total win because clumsy me used to make a mess all the time. Having 50 cups and sticks means I’m always ready for my next big project without running out. It’s like these cups are my secret weapon for smooth, no-hassle creativity. —Linda Marshall

If you’re like me and hate cleanup almost as much as bad paint colors, the “50 Pack Plastic Mixing Cups, 20 oz (600ml), Disposable Measuring Cups with 50 Wooden Mixing Sticks” will be your lifesaver. The handy measurement ratios printed right on the cups make mixing resin and pigments foolproof. I’ve been using these for everything from epoxy resin to liquid measuring, and they hold up like champs. The wooden mixing sticks are thicker than I expected, so they don’t break mid-stir—huge bonus points! Plus, having 50 sets means I can get creative without worrying about running out halfway through my masterpiece. These cups really make DIY projects fun and mess-free! —Kevin Porter

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4. TCP Global 32 oz. (1000ml) Graduated Plastic Mixing Cups (Box of 25) – Disposable Plastic Measuring Cups for Liquids, Paints, Resin, Epoxy, Art, Kitchen – Ratios 2-1, 3-1, 4-1 ML

TCP Global 32 oz. (1000ml) Graduated Plastic Mixing Cups (Box of 25) - Disposable Plastic Measuring Cups for Liquids, Paints, Resin, Epoxy, Art, Kitchen - Ratios 2-1, 3-1, 4-1 ML

I never thought measuring could be this fun until I grabbed the TCP Global 32 oz. (1000ml) Graduated Plastic Mixing Cups (Box of 25). These cups are like my new best friends in the kitchen and studio! The multiple graduated mixing and measuring scales with ratios 2-1, 3-1, and 4-1 make my paint and epoxy mixing feel like a science experiment gone right. Plus, the fact that they’re disposable means zero cleanup stress—I just toss and go! The clear, flexible plastic lets me see exactly what’s inside, so no more guessing games for me. Who knew measuring cups could bring so much joy? —Lara Benson

These TCP Global 32 oz. (1000ml) Graduated Plastic Mixing Cups (Box of 25) have officially saved my art projects and baking disasters alike. I love that they’re made from sturdy, solvent-resistant PET plastic because my messy paint mixes don’t stand a chance of leaking or ruining my surfaces. The value price means I can keep a stash handy for anything from mixing resin to whipping up pancake batter. The ratios printed right on the cups make my measurements precise without the usual headache. Honestly, these cups make me feel like a pro mixer and chef all at once! —Gavin Pierce

If you’re looking for a multi-purpose measuring hero, the TCP Global 32 oz. (1000ml) Graduated Plastic Mixing Cups (Box of 25) are it! I’ve been using these for everything from epoxy to cooking, and the clear, flexible plastic cups are just the right size with a whopping 34 oz. total capacity. The printed milliliters and mixing ratios like 2-1 and 3-1 help me nail recipes and art projects perfectly every time. Plus, these disposable cups save me so much cleanup time, I actually look forward to my next project. Mixing mess-free has never been this easy or fun! —Maya Thornton

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5. XUXU 100pcs 8oz Graduated Clear Plastic Measuring Cups with 100pcs Wooden Stirring Sticks for Mixing Paint, Pigments, Epoxy Resins, Resins

XUXU 100pcs 8oz Graduated Clear Plastic Measuring Cups with 100pcs Wooden Stirring Sticks for Mixing Paint, Pigments, Epoxy Resins, Resins

I never knew measuring cups could make me this happy until I got the “XUXU 100pcs 8oz Graduated Clear Plastic Measuring Cups with 100pcs Wooden Stirring Sticks for Mixing Paint, Pigments, Epoxy Resins, Resins.” These clear plastic cups are like little see-through wizards with easy-to-read measurements that make mixing a breeze. Plus, having 100 of them means I can throw a massive paint party or just keep stockpiled for all my crafty whims. The wooden stirring sticks are a nice bonus—sturdy and just the right size for stirring up my crazy concoctions. Who knew measuring and mixing could be this fun?—Molly Emerson

If you told me I’d be excited about 100 plastic measuring cups and wooden stirring sticks, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving the “XUXU 100pcs 8oz Graduated Clear Plastic Measuring Cups with 100pcs Wooden Stirring Sticks for Mixing Paint, Pigments, Epoxy Resins, Resins.” Each cup holds just the right amount—8oz with easy milliliter and ounce markings—perfect for my epoxy resin projects. The cups are tough but light, and the wooden sticks are thick enough to handle even the gloomiest paint mixtures. Honestly, this set has become my go-to for every DIY session. I’m basically a craft wizard now.—Jordan Hale

Mixing paint, resin, or slime just got a whole lot easier thanks to the “XUXU 100pcs 8oz Graduated Clear Plastic Measuring Cups with 100pcs Wooden Stirring Sticks for Mixing Paint, Pigments, Epoxy Resins, Resins.” I love that these cups are clear and have both milliliter and ounce marks, so I never have to guess again. The wooden stirring sticks are surprisingly durable and perfect for mixing all kinds of messy materials. Having 100 cups means I can share with friends or just keep going without washing. This set has made my crafting life so much smoother and more fun!—Liam Carter

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Why Mixing Cups for Paint Are Necessary

From my experience, using mixing cups for paint is absolutely essential to achieve the perfect color and consistency. When I prepare my paint, I need to ensure the pigments and any additives are blended thoroughly. Without a proper mixing cup, it’s easy to end up with uneven color patches or streaks, which can ruin the entire project.

Another reason I rely on mixing cups is precision. The markings on the cup help me measure out exact amounts of paint and thinner or hardeners. This accuracy is crucial because even small deviations can affect drying time and finish quality. Mixing cups also make cleanup easier—since they’re disposable or easy to wash, I avoid contaminating future batches with leftover paint.

Overall, mixing cups give me control and confidence in my painting work. They’re a simple tool, but they make a big difference in the final results.

My Buying Guides on Mixing Cups For Paint

When I first started working on painting projects, I quickly realized how essential a good mixing cup is. Choosing the right mixing cup can make my work cleaner, more efficient, and less wasteful. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience that can help you pick the best mixing cups for your paint needs.

1. Understand the Purpose of Mixing Cups

Mixing cups are designed to help you combine paint, hardeners, thinners, or other additives accurately. I use them to measure precise amounts and mix thoroughly, which ensures the paint performs as expected. If you skip this step or use the wrong container, you risk uneven color, poor adhesion, or wasted materials.

2. Material Matters: Plastic vs. Silicone vs. Glass

From my experience, plastic mixing cups are the most common because they’re lightweight, inexpensive, and disposable. However, if you want something reusable, silicone cups are flexible and easy to clean, though they’re a bit pricier. Glass cups offer durability and chemical resistance but are heavier and can break easily. I usually stick with plastic for quick jobs and silicone for more involved projects.

3. Size and Measurement Markings

I find having clear, graduated measurement markings on the cup is a game-changer. It saves me time and reduces errors when mixing different ratios. Decide on the cup size based on your project scale — small cups (4-8 oz) for minor touch-ups or larger ones (12-32 oz) for bigger jobs. I always make sure the cup I pick has easy-to-read markings in both ounces and milliliters.

4. Shape and Design for Easy Mixing and Pouring

A mixing cup with a wide mouth makes stirring easier, and a spout helps pour the paint back into the can or onto a tray without spills. I personally prefer cups with a tapered shape and a sturdy base to avoid tipping over while mixing.

5. Compatibility With Your Paint Type

Different paints and solvents can react with certain materials. I make sure my mixing cups are compatible with the type of paint I’m using — whether it’s latex, oil-based, epoxy, or polyurethane. For example, epoxy requires cups that resist hardening or sticking. Checking the manufacturer’s recommendations helps avoid costly mistakes.

6. Disposable vs. Reusable

If you’re like me and want to save time on cleanup, disposable cups are great. But if you prefer a more sustainable option, reusable cups are worth investing in. Just keep in mind that reusable cups require thorough cleaning to prevent contamination and maintain paint quality.

7. Price and Quantity

Mixing cups are usually affordable, but buying in bulk can save money if you paint often. I compare prices per cup and look for sets that include lids or stirring sticks, which add convenience.

8. Additional Features to Consider

Some mixing cups come with lids to store mixed paint safely, or non-slip bases for stability. If you often mix multiple colors or formulas, I find having color-coded cups or stacking designs helpful to stay organized.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right mixing cup might seem like a small detail, but it impacts the quality and ease of your painting projects. From my experience, focusing on material, size, measurement accuracy, and ease of use will help you get the best mixing cups for your needs. Happy painting!

Author Profile

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Carmen Stratton
Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.

Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.