5 Essentials in a great Studio Easel

For any artist, a studio easel is an indispensable tool that provides stability, versatility, and comfort. Whether you're a painter, sketch artist, or mixed media enthusiast, investing in a high-quality easel is essential. For a long time I used a table top easel, then I used a French easel (which is mainly used for plein air paintings); finally I upgraded to a basic studio easel and I’m grateful for such a hard working tool in my studio.

If you are thinking about investing in an easel, here are the things to look for:

1. Sturdy Construction:

The first and foremost aspect to consider is the easel's construction. Look for an easel made from durable materials like solid wood, as it should withstand the test of time and support your artwork securely. A sturdy easel ensures stability, which is crucial for precise brushwork or detailed drawings. Consider the weight of the easel as well, as it should strike a balance between stability and portability, depending on your artistic needs.

2. Adjustable Height and Angle:

Flexibility is vital when it comes to creating art comfortably. Look for an easel that offers adjustable height and angle options. A versatile easel allows you to work while sitting or standing, ensuring proper ergonomics and minimizing fatigue during long hours of painting. Additionally, the ability to adjust the angle of the easel's working surface is essential for controlling the flow of paint and achieving desired effects.

3. Versatile Canvas Size Accommodation:

Consider the range of canvas sizes you typically work with, and choose an easel that can accommodate them. A good studio easel should have an adjustable canvas holder that can securely hold canvases of various sizes. It should also allow for vertical and horizontal orientations, enabling you to experiment with different compositions and formats. This versatility ensures that your easel remains adaptable to your evolving artistic needs.

I love that I can use my easel for large pieces and lay my it flat for creating small pieces or works on paper, as seen below.

4. Storage and Additional Features:

A well-designed easel should offer storage options for art supplies. Look for an easel that includes built-in compartments, trays, or hooks to hold your brushes, paints, and other tools conveniently. This feature will keep your working area organized and free from clutter, allowing you to focus on your creative process. Additionally, some easels come with additional features like wheels for easy mobility, which can be especially beneficial if you have a larger studio or like to work in different areas. I am always moving mine slightly so that I can get the best light.

5. Stability and Ease of Adjustment:

A reliable easel should be stable enough to support your artwork without any wobbling or tilting. Look for an easel with a secure base and sturdy adjustable mechanisms that lock firmly into place. This ensures that your canvas remains steady throughout your creative process, giving you the confidence to work with precision. Quick and easy adjustment mechanisms are also crucial, allowing you to make changes swiftly without disrupting your flow.

Although my specific easel has been discontinued here are very similar quality ones that I recommend:

1. U.S. Art Supply Malibu Heavy Duty Extra Large Adjustable H-Frame Studio Easel - Lifetime guarantee. Made from beechwood; weights 35 lbs (lightest of the three).

2. ATWORTH Deluxe Oak Wooden Easel H-Frame - This one is probably the most similar to mine. Instead of locking wheels, it has rubber feet to keep the easel in place. Made from oak; weights 55 lbs so very heavy duty.

3. Mabef Artist’s Easel M-06 - Made in Italy from beechwood; lifetime warranty. 40 lbs.

Investing in a high-quality studio artist's easel is an investment in your artistic practice. The right easel not only enhances your working experience but also contributes to the quality and integrity of your artwork. So, take your time, do your research, and choose an easel that will become your trusted companion on your artistic journey.