The Best Easels for Painters in 2024: Ultimate Guide

Introduction

Choosing the right easel can be difficult with the sheer number of options at your disposal.

A good easel provides stability, comfort, and functionality while painting. It should hold the canvas securely and allows artists to work at their desired angle and height.

There are various types of easels available, each designed for different purposes and preferences.

Factors such as the artist’s working style, space constraints, mobility requirements, and budget should be considered when selecting an easel.

In this guide, we will explore the different types of easels and recommend the best ones for you to choose.

To save you time:

Best Pick for Beginners

Jackson’s Wentworth Box Easel

Our #1 pick for easels is the Jackson’s medium-scale, Wentworth Box Easel, the perfect and super convenient table-top easel for just about all painters.

Best Overall Pick

Jackson’s French Style Box Easel

We’ve chosen Jackson’s French Style Box Easel as the best overall pick for painters for its superb versatility that can switch from being ideal for plein air painting to studio artwork.

Best Premium Pick

Jack Richeson’s Best Ultimate Easel

Jack Richeson’s BEST Ultimate Easel is an exemplary choice for artists seeking uncompromising quality and functionality. Constructed from American Red Oak with precision hardware, this H-Frame easel reflects superior craftsmanship and attention to detail suited for oil, acrylic and casein works.

Types of Easels

When it comes to choosing the best easel for your painting needs, it’s essential to understand the different types available on the market. Each type of easel has its own unique features and benefits, catering to different preferences and painting styles.

1. Studio Easels

Studio easels are perhaps the most common and versatile type of easel used by painters. These sturdy and durable easels are designed for use in a studio or dedicated workspace. They offer a range of adjustments to accommodate various canvas sizes and working positions.

Pros:

• Provides excellent stability for large canvases
• Offers height and angle adjustments for comfortable painting
• Generally has built-in storage for art supplies
• Can handle heavy-duty use

Cons:

• Takes up more space compared to other types of easels
• Not easily portable for outdoor painting sessions

When it comes to choosing the best studio easel in 2024, there are several top recommendations worth considering:

1. Richeson Classic Dulce Easel

• Overview: This medium-sized H-frame studio easel is made of lyptus hardwood and offers excellent stability for canvases up to 82 inches high. It features an easily adjustable angle and height mechanism, making it suitable for various canvas sizes as well as a tray that can hold additional art supplies.
• Pros: Sturdy construction, adjustable height and angle for working seated or standing, built-in storage tray.
• Cons: Slightly heavy, not easily portable.
• Comparison with Other Products: When compared to other studio easels in its price range, the Richeson Classic Dulce Easel stands out for its solid build quality and value for money.

2. Meeden Walnut Large H-Frame Studio Easel

• Overview: This large H-frame studio easel is crafted from oiled beechwood, offering a beautiful and durable finish. It can accommodate oversized canvases and provides stability for heavy work.
• Pros: Spacious working area, adjustable angle and height, sturdy construction.
• Cons: Relatively expensive, not easily portable.
• Comparison with Other Products: Compared to other large studio easels, the Meeden Walnut Large H-Frame Studio Easel stands out for its premium build quality and elegant design.

3. Cappelletto CS-50 Beechwood Studio Tilting Easel

• Overview: This tilting studio wooden floor easel is made of high-quality, oiled and stain resistant beechwood that offers a convenient tilting mechanism for easy painting angles. It also comes with a storage drawer for brushes and paints.
• Pros: Tilting feature capable of being used in a vertical or horizontal position, adjustable height, compact size, suited for various mediums, central sliding mast can tilt forward smoothly (the ergonomic black technopolymer knobs and brass insert).
• Cons: Limited portability
• Comparison with Other Products: When compared to other wooden floor easels, the Mont Marte Tilting Studio Wooden Floor Easel stands out for its versatility and space-saving design.

4. Jack Richeson’s BEST Ultimate Easel

• Overview: The BEST Ultimate Easel by Jack Richeson is an excellent choice for artists looking for a high-quality H-frame easel. Made of American Red Oak, this easel is built to last and offers exceptional stability.
• Pros: Sturdy construction, simple assembly process, bottom and middle paint trays, suited for large works or small, front-locking plastic casters.
• Cons: Relatively expensive compared to other options.
• Comparison with Other Products: Among the range of H-frame easels, the Jack Richeson’s BEST Ultimate Easel stands out for its superior craftsmanship and attention to detail.

2. Plein Air Easels

Plein air easels are specifically designed for outdoor painting, allowing artists to work on location and capture the beauty of nature. These easels are portable, lightweight, and easy to set up, making them ideal for artists who enjoy painting en plein air. Here we will discuss the definition and purpose of plein air easels, their pros and cons, as well as provide you with our top recommendations for the best plein air easels in 2024.

Definition and Purpose

Plein air easels are designed to be compact and portable, allowing artists to easily transport them to different outdoor locations.

They are typically smaller and lighter than studio easels, making them easier to carry around while still providing a stable platform for painting.

Plein air easels often feature adjustable legs or a collapsible design, allowing artists to set up their easel on uneven terrain.

The purpose of a plein air easel is to provide a sturdy support for your canvas or painting surface while you work outdoors. It should be able to withstand wind and other outdoor elements while keeping your artwork secure. A good plein air easel should also be easy to set up and adjust, allowing you to quickly get started on your painting without wasting precious time.

Pros and Cons

Plein air easels offer several advantages for outdoor painters:

• Portability: Plein air easels are lightweight and easy to transport, making them perfect for artists who like to paint on location.
• Compact Design: These easels often have a collapsible or foldable design, allowing for easy storage and transportation.
• Stability: Despite their smaller size, plein air easels provide stability and support for your artwork, ensuring that it doesn’t wobble or fall over while you paint.
• Adjustable Features: Many plein air easels come with adjustable legs or panels, allowing you to work at different heights or angles depending on your preferences.

However, there are also some downsides to consider:

• Limited Storage Space: Due to their compact design, plein air easels may have limited space for holding art supplies and materials.
• Less Stability on Uneven Ground: While plein air easels are designed to be used outdoors, they may not provide the same level of stability on uneven terrain as studio easels do.
• Smaller Canvas Size: Plein air easels are generally better suited for smaller canvas sizes, as larger canvases may be more difficult to work with and transport.

Best Plein Air Easels in 2024: Top Recommendations

1. Jackson’s French Style Box Easel

The Jackson’s French Style Box Easel is highly optimized for versatility, ideal for plein air painting with its compact storage, complimentary palette and dividers.

This canvas features a beechwood frame that holds canvases between 88mm to 872mm. It should be noted that the easel quite heavy as a result of its sturdiness and can also double as a studio easel.

2. Jackson’s Half Sized French Style Box Easel

The Jackson’s Half Sized French Style Box Easel is a very well made, lightweight and sturdy plein air easel that offers amazing value for its price. Despite being half the size of the full-sized box easel, it can still hold a maximum canvas height of 85cm while also being highly compact and convenient.

3. Sienna Plein Air All-in-One Pochade Box

This versatile plein air easel is a popular choice among outdoor painters. It features a built-in palette, storage compartments for art supplies, and a tripod mount for stability. The adjustable panel allows you to paint at different angles, and it can hold canvas sizes up to 12″ x 16″.

4. Guerrilla Painter French Resistance Pochade

This lightweight and compact easel is perfect for artists on the go. It comes with a built-in palette, brush holder, and storage space for art materials. The French Resistance Pochade can hold canvas sizes up to 9″ x 12″ and can be used with a tripod or handheld.

5. Strada Mini Tripod Easel

The Strada Mini is a small and portable easel made from high quality aluminium that is ideal for plein air painting. It features an adjustable panel, HDPE Plexiglass Palette and can accommodate canvas sizes up to 11″ x 14″. The compact size makes it easy to carry around, however the additional SRADA C305 tripod must be purchased separately to provide stability on uneven ground.

3. Tabletop Easels

Tabletop easels are a versatile and convenient option for artists who prefer to work on a smaller scale or in limited space. These compact easels are designed to sit on a table or any flat surface, providing a stable support for canvases or panels.

Definition and Purpose

Definition: Tabletop easels, as the name suggests, are designed to be placed on a table or desk, providing a compact and portable solution for artists. Purpose: They are ideal for artists who work on smaller canvases or prefer to paint in a seated position. Tabletop easels are also suitable for art workshops, classrooms, or outdoor painting sessions where space is limited.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Compact and portable
• Ideal for small-scale artworks
• Suitable for artists with limited studio space
• Easy to set up and store

Cons:

• Limited support for larger canvases
• May not provide the same stability as floor-standing easels
• Less adjustable compared to studio easels

Best Tabletop Easels in 2024: Top Recommendations with In-depth Reviews, Pros and Cons, and Product Comparisons

1. Jackson’s Wentworth Box Easel

Our #1 pick for easels is Jackson’s medium-scale Wentworth Box Easel, the perfect and super convenient easel for just about all painters.

The Wentworth box is capable of folding away flat making it extremely versatile for narrow work areas as well as traveling purposes.

This easel offers exceptional value for its price with its additional capability to tilt to a variety of working angles, opening draw paint or brush storage and carry handle for extra portability.

2. Jackson’s H-Frame Table Easel

This H-Frame table ease is a solid choice with variable height adjustment and easy folding for transport and storage.

It’s especially designed for narrow work spaces and painters that are regularly on the move.

3. Jackson’s Small Box Easel

This small and lightweight table box easel is absolutely perfect for a convenient kit you can carry around and use to paint with. The small size makes it perfect for working both indoors and outdoors while the extra compartments made available when opened is really nice to have.

4. US Art Supply Small Field Sketch Board Easel

• Overview: This tabletop easel is designed for outdoor painting excursions and sketching. It provides a sturdy support for small canvases or panels.
• Pros: Lightweight and portable, adjustable angle for different painting positions, folds flat for easy storage and transport
• Cons: Limited tilt angle compared to larger easels

4. Tripod Easels

When it comes to painting on the go or in limited spaces, tripod easels are a versatile and practical choice for painters. Here’s an in-depth look at the definition, purpose, pros and cons of tripod easels, along with the best tripod easels in 2024.

Definition and Purpose

A tripod easel is characterized by its three-legged design, providing stability and balance for artists working in various settings. Its collapsible nature makes it convenient for plein air painting, travel, or compact studio spaces.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Portability: Lightweight and easy to transport.
• Space-Saving: Ideal for small studios or outdoor painting.
• Stability: Three legs provide a sturdy base for canvas support.

Cons:

• Height Limitation: Some models may have limited height adjustment.
• Canvas Size Restriction: Not suitable for very large or heavy canvases.
• Limited Features: May not offer as many adjustments or accessories as larger studio easels.

Best Tripod Easels in 2024: Top Recommendations

1. Jackson’s A-Frame Easel

This sturdy yet lightweight easel made of Beechwood offer excellent value for its price. Its lightweight and simple design ensures use in narrow areas without compromising its ability to hold canvases.

2. Sienna Plein Air Pochade Box Easel

This versatile easel doubles as a pochade box, offering a compact and convenient solution for outdoor painting. It provides a sturdy platform for canvases up to 17 inches and includes a storage compartment for art supplies.

3. Mabef Mbm-23 Deluxe Tripod Easel

Known for its exceptional craftsmanship, this Mabef easel offers durability and reliability. With adjustable canvas holders and a maximum canvas height of 68 inches, it caters to various painting preferences.

4. US Art Supply Malibu H-Frame Studio Easel

While technically an H-frame studio easel, this product also functions as a versatile tripod easel when its legs are extended. It provides the stability of a studio easel with the added flexibility of a tripod design.

Considering the portability and space-saving benefits of tripod easels, these top recommendations offer practical solutions for artists seeking mobility without compromising on stability.

5. Children’s Easels

When it comes to nurturing a child’s artistic skills, having the right easel can make a significant difference. Children’s easels are specifically designed to cater to the needs of young artists, providing a platform for creativity and expression. Here’s an in-depth look at children’s easels, including their definition, purpose, and the best options available in 2024.

Definition and Purpose

Children’s easels are typically smaller in size and adjustable to accommodate the varying heights of young artists. They often feature vibrant colors and playful designs to engage children in the creative process. These easels serve as a dedicated space for kids to explore different mediums and techniques, fostering a love for art from an early age.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Encourages creativity and imagination
• Helps develop fine motor skills
• Provides a designated art space for children
• Adjustable for different age groups
• Often comes with accessories like storage bins and paper roll holders

Cons:

• Limited lifespan as children outgrow them
• May lack the stability of larger easels
• Smaller work surface compared to adult easels

Best Children’s Easels in 2024

1. Melissa & Doug Deluxe Standing Art Easel: This double-sided easel offers a chalkboard and a dry-erase board, providing versatility for young artists. It also includes a paper roll holder and trays for holding art supplies.
2. Step2 All Around Easel for Two: Ideal for playdates or siblings, this easel features two sides – one with a chalkboard and the other with a magnetic dry-erase board. It also includes storage bins for art materials.
3. Crayola Kids Wooden Easel: Designed for budding artists, this easel comes with a dry-erase surface, a chalkboard, and a paper roll holder. It also includes storage trays for organizing art supplies.
4. Hape All-in-One Wooden Kid’s Art Easel: This multifunctional easel offers a chalkboard, magnetic whiteboard, and a paper roll holder. It is adjustable in height and folds flat for easy storage.

Children’s easels play an essential role in fostering creativity and self-expression in young artists. By providing them with the right tools from an early age, we can inspire a lifelong passion for art.

Remember that choosing the right easel depends on various factors such as the child’s age, preferred activities, available space at home, and budget considerations. Take these aspects into account when selecting the best children’s easel that suits your child’s needs.

How to Choose the Best Easel

When it comes to choosing the best easel for your painting needs, there are several factors to consider. Here is a step-by-step guide on selecting the perfect easel that suits your artistic requirements:

Step 1: Identify Your Painting Style and Techniques

• Consider the type of art materials you use, such as acrylics, oils, or watercolors.
• Determine your preferred canvas size and painting height. Different easels are designed for various canvas sizes and heights, so it’s essential to match the easel’s specifications with your needs.

Step 2: Understand the Types of Easels Used by Artists

Familiarize yourself with different types of easels, including studio easels, plein air easels, tabletop easels, tripod easels, and children’s easels. Each type serves specific purposes and offers unique features.

Step 3: Consider the Location of Use

If you primarily work in a studio, a sturdy studio easel may be suitable. Conversely, if you enjoy painting outdoors or in different locations, a portable plein air easel might be more appropriate.

Step 4: Evaluate Your Mobility Needs

Determine whether you require an easel that can be easily transported or one that will remain stationary in your studio. Portability is crucial for artists who travel or paint en plein air.

Step 5: Assess Adjustability and Stability

Look for an easel that offers adjustable features to accommodate various painting angles and positions. Additionally, stability is essential to ensure that your artwork remains secure while you paint.

Step 6: Factor in Storage Capacity

Consider the storage space available for your easel when not in use. Some easels can be folded or collapsed for convenient storage, making them ideal for artists with limited space.

Step 7: Take Personal Preferences into Account

Your personal preferences play a significant role in selecting an easel. Whether it’s the material, design, or additional features such as paint trays or accessory holders, choose an easel that aligns with your preferences and working style.

By following these steps and considering art materials, painting techniques, and personal preferences, you can confidently select the best easel for your artistic endeavors.

Top Recommendations for the Best Easels in 2024

When it comes to choosing the best easel for your painting needs, it’s essential to consider various factors such as versatility, build quality, price, mobility, adjustability, stability, and storage capacity. Here are some top recommendations for the best easels in 2024:

US Art Supply Medium H-Frame Studio Easel

Overview: The US Art Supply Medium H-Frame Studio Easel is a versatile and sturdy easel suitable for various painting styles and techniques. It is constructed with high-quality beechwood and provides excellent stability for canvases of different sizes.

Pros and Cons: This easel offers smooth height and angle adjustments, making it ideal for artists who prefer working in both sitting and standing positions. However, some users may find it relatively heavy compared to other options.

Meeden Walnut Large H-Frame Studio Easel

Overview: The Meeden Walnut Large H-Frame Studio Easel is a premium choice for artists seeking a durable and elegant easel. Crafted from oiled beechwood with brass plated steel fittings, it exudes sophistication while providing exceptional support for large canvases.

Pros and Cons: Its robust construction ensures long-term reliability, but its weight may limit portability for outdoor painting sessions.

Mont Marte Tilting Studio Wooden Floor Easel

Overview: The Mont Marte Tilting Studio Wooden Floor Easel boasts a unique tilting feature that allows artists to achieve the perfect working angle. Made from high-quality materials, this easel offers stability and ease of use, making it suitable for various painting mediums.

Pros and Cons: The tilting mechanism enhances creative flexibility, but some users may find the assembly process slightly challenging.

Jack Richeson’s BEST Ultimate Easel

Overview: Jack Richeson’s BEST Ultimate Easel is an exemplary choice for artists seeking uncompromising quality and functionality. Constructed from American Red Oak with precision hardware, this H-Frame easel reflects superior craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Pros and Cons: Its user-friendly design and ample paint trays enhance convenience during painting sessions. However, artists with limited studio space may find its size somewhat imposing.

These top recommendations represent a diverse range of easels that cater to different preferences and artistic requirements. Whether you prioritize portability, adjustability, or traditional craftsmanship, there’s an ideal easel waiting to elevate your painting experience in 2024.

Summary

When it comes to finding the best easel for your painting endeavors, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and working preferences. The benefits of different types of easels cater to various artistic requirements, whether you’re a studio artist, an outdoor enthusiast, or a tabletop painter. Each type offers unique features and practicality that can significantly enhance your painting experience.

With an array of options available in 2024, including studio easels, plein air easels, tabletop easels, tripod easels, and children’s easels, there’s a perfect match for every painter. From versatility and stability to mobility and adjustability, the right easel can elevate your creative process.

By understanding the significance of choosing the right easel and considering factors such as art materials, painting techniques, and personal preferences, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your artistic vision.

Ultimately, the best easel for painting is the one that seamlessly integrates with your style and workflow while providing the necessary support and functionality.