14 Best Easels For Drawing And Artwork In 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide
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Do you love to draw and paint but don't have the space for a studio? Or maybe you're an artist who likes to take their work on the road. In either case, an easel is a must-have piece of art equipment. But with so many different types and brands available, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. That's where we come in!
In this article, we will review some of the best easels on the market and help you choose the perfect one for your needs. Let's get started!
Our Top Picks
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Best Overall: T-Sign Portable Artist Easel Runner-Up: Creative Mark Cezanne Half Box Easel Best Budget: RRFTOK Tier Display Easel Stand Most Versatile: Guerrilla Painter 3001 No.17 Flex Easel Best for Sketching: U.S. Art Supply Coronado Large Wooden Easel Best for Painting Canvas: Jullian Escort French Art Easel Stand Best Complete Set: Falling In Art French Easel Set Best Compact: New Wave U.Go Plein Air Easel Best for Professional Artists: U.S. Art Supply Malibu Heavy Duty Easel Best for Beginners: Artist Quality French Easel Best for Outdoor Painting: MEEDEN Artist Pochade Box Best for Hobbyists: Artina Wooden Easel Stand Best for Artists of All Levels: En Plein Air Pro Professional Series Easel Best Ergonomic: Sienna Plein Air Pochade Box Adjustable Easel |
1. Best Overall: T-Sign Portable Artist Easel
Why We Think It’s Great
- EXCELLENT STABILITY: This easel can hold canvases up to 25 pounds without collapsing.
- EASY TURN KNOBS: Quickly adjust the easel from a low position, perfect when sitting at home or painting outdoors.
- NON-SLIP BASE: You can paint large art projects without fear of your canvas slipping or crashing to the ground.
- ADJUSTABLE LEGS: Allow you to use the easel on any surface.
- EXTRA THICK MATERIAL: Aluminum alloy keeps your work surface straight up without any sway.
What We Don’t Like
- There are no storage shelves.
- It is a bit tricky to assemble.
What Our Editors Say“The T-Sign Portable Artist Easel is extremely sturdy and adjustable for the perfect height. We appreciate how we can stand it straight or lean it back when drawing. It is also sturdy enough to hold a whopping 25-pound canvas! It is made of aluminum, which is lightweight but also very durable. This easel also comes with a carrying case so you can take it wherever you go, even during art classes.” |
Material: Aluminum Alloy | Dimensions: 21.22 x 6.42 x 4.09 inches | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight: 3.10 lbs
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2. Runner-Up: Creative Mark Cezanne Half Box Easel
Why We Think It’s Great
- TILTABLE FORWARD: Tilt your canvas effortlessly for maximum creativity and control.
- STORAGE DRAWER: Makes your art supplies accessible and easy to reach.
- MODIFIABLE ANGLE AND HEIGHT: Use this easel for painting on tabletops or while standing.
- TRANSPORTABLE: Easily carry this easel with its adjustable strap.
- DURABLE: Holds canvases up to 33” high without shaking.
What We Don’t Like
- Its solid construction makes it heavier than other products.
- The supplies drawers are narrow.
What Our Editors Say“What we like about Mark Cezanne Half Box is the adjustable angles and height, allowing you to customize the tilt of your canvas to unleash your full creativity. The easel also includes a divided supplies storage drawer, making organizing all your drawing supplies easy. We also love the adjustable strap that makes it easier to carry. And best of all, it can hold canvases up to 33 inches high, so you can easily paint even large murals or complex designs.” |
Material: Wood | Dimensions: 25 x 14 x 8 inches | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight: 11 lbs
Related: How to Paint Watercolor Abstract
3. Best Budget: RRFTOK Tier Display Easel Stand
Why We Think It’s Great
- STURDY: It holds canvases up to 55” high and a maximum weight of 10 lbs.
- ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT: You can adjust its height from 24” to 72”.
- PORTABLE: Includes a carry bag perfect for travel.
- VERSATILE: You can use this easel for sitting and standing positions.
What We Don't Like
- You need to tighten some bolts to prevent the easel from lowering.
- It doesn't come with drawers.
What Our Editors Say“We love the RRFTOK Tier Display Easel Stand because it can hold the canvas in place, unlike similar products on the market. Thanks to its double-layer design, it can accommodate large canvases and panels without problems. This art easel is made of metal with a reinforced chain, making it more durable than its competitors. The package also includes a bag especially beneficial for those who like to draw and paint outdoors.” |
Material: Metal | Dimensions: 25.5 x 4.4 x 3.8 inches | Assembly Required: No | Weight: 2.95 lbs
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4. Most Versatile: Guerrilla Painter 3001 No.17 Flex Easel
Why We Think It's Great
- SUPERIOR COMPATIBILITY: You can use this easel with any standard camera tripod.
- SLEEK WINGS: Allow you to fit the panels better.
- FLEXIBLE ANGLE: Tilt the canvas at any angle according to your needs.
- DURABLE: Holds canvases up to 20” tall.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: Only weighs 1 pound, making it easier to bring to any location.
What We Don't Like
- The easel could be larger.
- It is more expensive than similar products on the market.
What Our Experts SayAccording to Oberon Copeland, CEO of VeryInformed, “This easel is lightweight and highly portable, making it ideal for painting on the go. Plus, the easel has multiple adjustments for angles, so you can always get the perfect view of your canvas.” |
Material: Stainless Steel | Dimensions: 2 x 8 x 24 inches | Assembly Required: No | Weight: 1 lb
5. Best for Sketching: U.S. Art Supply Coronado Large Wooden Easel
Why We Think It’s Great
- STURDY: Draw or paint on large canvases up to 34” high.
- EASY FOLDS DOWN: This allows you to transport the easel with ease.
- TRAVEL-FRIENDLY: Equipped with a leather handle and shoulder strap making it easier to carry.
- ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT: Modify its height up to 72” according to your needs.
- ANTI-SLIP FEET: Prevents the easel from sliding while in use.
What We Don’t Like
- The leg of this easel is a bit shaky.
- It is quite challenging to assemble.
What Buyers Say
“I've been using this all summer! I'm a first-time, late-in-life artist, which works great for my purposes. I have never folded it up into itself, as I like how it looks and like to keep my latest painting on display. It's pretty, sturdy, and I like that it makes me feel like a real painter. Cheesy but true.”
Material: Wood | Dimensions: 17.7 x 24 x 7.9 inches | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight: 11.9 lbs
6. Best for Painting Canvas: Jullian Escort French Art Easel Stand
Why We Think It’s Great
- EQUIPPED WITH STORAGE: Lets you organize your paint materials accessibly.
- VERSATILE DESIGN: You can use it as a tabletop or floor easel.
- FOLDABLE LEGS: Allow you to transport it from one place to another.
- PORTABLE: It comes with a shoulder strap for easy transport.
What We Don’t Like
- It lacks assembly instructions.
- The easel is not made of fine wood.
What Our Editors Say“The Jullian Escort French Style Wasel caught our attention because it perfectly balances portability and functionality. You can bring it anywhere thanks to its sleek design and comfortable shoulder strap. We also like its built-in storage drawer allowing us to manage our art supplies easily. And whenever you want to bring it somewhere, simply fold its legs! And best of all, its versatile design allows you to use it as a tabletop or floor easel.” |
Material: Wood | Dimensions: 24.41 x 12.6 x 7.87 inches | Assembly Required: No | Weight: 11 lbs
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7. Best Complete Set: Falling In Art French Easel Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- PERFECT FOR BEGINNERS: Comes in a complete painting set ideal for starters and professionals.
- EASY TO CARRY: Bring this easel to any location with its built-in shoulder strap and leather handle.
- ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT: Modify its heights to suit various projects and settings.
- OUTSTANDING STORAGE: Useful for organizing brushes, paints, and other art supplies.
- STAYS IN PLACE: Three rubber feet ensure the easel’s stability when in use.
What We Don’t Like
- The storage drawer could be larger.
What Our Editors Say“We recommend the Falling In Art French Easel Set because it comes with all the essentials you need to start watercolor painting. We also love its shoulder strap and leather handle, which are especially useful when bringing the easel to paint in different locations. Like similar products, this one has a built-in storage drawer that helps organize brushes, paints, and other art supplies. With its combination of high-quality materials, portability, and versatility, this easel set offers endless benefits for every artist.” |
Material: Acrylic | Dimensions: 23 x 18 x 5 inches | Assembly Required: No | Weight: 9 lbs
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8. Best Compact: New Wave U.Go Plein Air Easel
Why We Think It’s Great
- EXCEPTIONAL CONSTRUCTION: Made of non-porous wood, making it water and crack-resistant. Magnets for closure.
- NON-CORROSIVE: Uses magnets for closure and stainless steel and aluminum accents for long service life.
- MODIFIABLE HINGES: Adjust its hinges to 180 degrees vertical and horizontal to suit your needs.
- STURDY: It can hold panels as thin as 1/16” and canvas up to 3/4” thick without wobbling.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: Bring this easel anywhere with ease.
What We Don't Like
- It has sharp corners not suitable for kids.
- This easel only works for the sitting position.
What Buyers Say
“Loving my new pochade box! The craftsmanship is amazing, as anticipated, and I'm having fun playing with all the magnetic features. I'm using both panels and stretched canvas in my studio and outdoors.
It's not only easy to transport, but it is secure when I attach it to my tripod. My old box was heavy and wobbled everywhere on the tripod! Great purchase.”
Material: Acrylic | Dimensions: 8.4 x 11.25 x 1.18 inches | Assembly Required: No | Weight: 2.1 lbs
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9. Best for Professional Artists: U.S. Art Supply Malibu Heavy Duty Easel
Why We Think It’s Great
- ROBUST BUILT: This easel can hold canvases up to 90” high.
- TILTABLE: You can tip this easel up to a flat horizontal angle.
- INCLUDES STORAGE TRAY: Organize and access your essential tools when you need them most.
- EASY TO ADJUST: Four large point knobs for quick adjustments that even kids can operate.
What We Don’t Like
- It is not suitable for small canvases.
- The assembly instructions are not clear.
Why Our Editors Say
“We think this is one of the best easels because it can hold up to 90” large canvases. The tray is also tiltable, making it more effortless to paint at different angles.
Additionally, this easel comes with a convenient storage supply tray that holds your brushes, palettes, and other art supplies.”
Material: Wood | Dimensions: 53.94 x 8.27 x 6.3 inches | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight: 35 lbs
Related: How to Paint Abstract Backgrounds
10. Best for Beginners: Artist Quality French Easel
We Think It’s Great
- EXCELLENT STORAGE: Comes with a pull-out drawer for organizing your art materials.
- HOLDS HEAVY FRAMES: With its strong telescoping legs, you can assure that it can accommodate heavy poster frames and flip charts.
- EASY TO TRANSPORT: Carry this easel everywhere with its shoulder strap and leather handle.
- VERSATILE: You can fold it to use as a tabletop easel.
- NO ASSEMBLY NEEDED: You can use this easel right out of the box.
What We Don’t Like
- Its legs are a bit shaky.
- The instructions could be better.
What Buyers Say
“I've been using this easel for a couple of months now and have been very happy with it. It's compact, with lots of storage, and adjustable enough to paint at any comfortable height.
You could take it just about anywhere, leave it set up and paint on it daily, or pack it up and put it under a bed when not in use. It's very sturdy, and for the price point, I couldn't ask for much more.”
Material: Wood | Dimensions: 23.7 x 18.5 x 8.4 inches | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight: 12 lbs
Related: Beginners’ Guide to Charcoal Drawing
11. Best for Outdoor Painting: MEEDEN Artist Pochade Box
Why We Think It’s Great
- COMPASS LEVEL ALUMINUM TRIPOD: This helps you achieve the perfect setup for your drawings and paintings.
- WOBBLE-FREE: Supported with rubber bumpers on the bottom to keep the canvas in place.
- FOLDABLE: Quickly move, store and transport this easel.
- RELIABLE: This easel can hold canvases up to 17” tall.
- SPACIOUS STORAGE: Three-part storage offers plenty of space for your paints, brushes, small canvas, and other supplies.
What We Don’t Like
- Some assembly is required.
- The tripod is not included.
What Our Editors Say“We like the Meeden Artist Pochade Box’s durability and portability that doesn't fall behind its competitors. Whenever you feel like painting outdoors, you can easily fold this easel and turn it into a compact box. And unlike other easels, this one has an aluminum tripod with a small compass level for precise positioning and set-up outdoors.” |
Material: Wood | Dimensions: 11.81 x 14.96 x 5.91 inches | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight: 16 lbs
Related: A Guide to Canvas Painting for Beginners
12. Best for Hobbyists: Artina Wooden Easel Stand
Why We Think It’s Great
- STURDY BUILT: It can hold canvases up to 33” high without issues.
- PLENTY OF STORAGE: You will never run out of storage for your art supplies.
- TELESCOPIC LEGS: Use this easel for painting indoors and outdoors.
- PORTABLE: Carry it everywhere without problems.
What We Don’t Like
- The legs are a bit flimsy.
- It does not include assembly instructions.
What Buyers Say
“Got this for my daughter. She’s into painting. She loved it! It’s a little weird to put together and it comes with no instructions, I had to keep looking at the picture in order to put it together, but it was worth it.”
Material: Wood | Dimensions: 24.65 x 18.11 x 7.72 inches | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight: 8.8 lbs
Related: The Best Free Painting Classes Online
13. Best for Artists of All Levels: En Plein Air Pro Professional Series Easel
Why We Think It’s Great
- ACCESSIBLE SHELVES: This enables you to store and locate your supplies quickly.
- LARGE PALETTE: Damage-resistant palette that will surely last for a long time.
- STABLE FEET: Eliminates shaking when in use.
- STURDY: Use up to 22” canvas without worrying about the easel collapsing.
- EASY TO ASSEMBLE: Assemble and disassemble it without breaking a sweat.
What We Don’t Like
- It has a steep price tag.
What Our Editors Say“The first thing we love about the Professional Series Paint En Plein Air is the stable feet that won't wobble even when holding large canvases. And unlike other easels, this one includes a damage-resistant palette perfect for those who paint daily. We also like the easel’s drawers where you can put all your essential art supplies. Best of all, the package was easy to put together.” |
Material: Aluminum | Dimensions: 24 x 14 x 9 inches | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight: 12 lbs
Related: The Best Oil Painting Techniques
14. Best Ergonomic: Sienna Plein Air Pochade Box
Why We Think It’s Great
- PLASTIC KNOBS: Allow you to adjust the lid and canvas holders at any angle easily.
- STRONG CONSTRUCTION: Holds different sizes of stretched canvases and panels.
- WET BRUSHES STORAGE: Makes your paintbrushes more accessible.
- TRIPOD MOUNTING PLATE: You don't have to worry about this easel wiggling while drawing or painting.
What We Don’t Like
- You need a tripod to take full advantage of it.
- It does not include washers to tighten the board.
What Buyers Say
“I bought this pochade box so that my daughter could go plein air painting with me. Although I already have a larger Sienna plein air setup that I love, in hindsight, I may have gone with this one due to its compactness. Plein air is all about mobility and a limited palette, and this one really fits the bill.”
Material: Wood | Dimensions: 12 x 6 x 14 inches | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight: 5 lbs
Final Verdict
If you're looking for an easel that's both functional and stylish, the T-Sign Portable Artist Easel is a great option. This easel is made of sturdy aluminum alloy and has a sleek, black finish. It's also adjustable, so you can customize the height and angle to suit your needs.
Plus, the T-Sign easel is affordable and comes with a carrying bag, making it easy to transport from one location to another. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned artist, this easel is a great choice for your drawing and artwork.
Best Easel for Drawing Buying Guide
When buying an easel, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you with so many options available. Here are a few things to consider:
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Portability
Whether you're a plein air painter or hobby artist, portability should be high on your list of priorities. If traveling with your easel, you'll want to choose a lightweight, easy option to carry. These easels are typically made of aluminum or another lightweight material and fold up for easy transport.
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Adjustability
Easels typically have telescoping legs that you can change to different heights and adjustable canvas holders that accommodate different widths. This way, you'll be able to paint anything from small sketches to large landscapes without worrying about your easel being unable to handle the size of your canvas.
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Stability
Stability is essential no matter what you're using your easel for, as you don't want your artwork or project to fall over while working on it. If you're working with large canvases or heavy materials, you'll want an easel that can support them without tipping.
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Durability
When choosing an easel, consider the material it is made from to ensure that it can withstand being used outdoors and is durable enough to meet your needs.
Aluminum is lightweight, making it a good choice for easels. Steel is even more durable but heavier, so it may be more challenging to transport.
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Ease of Use
Select an easel that is quick and easy to set up, so you can do your work as soon as possible. You should also be able to fold it down quickly when you are finished for the day.
Easels FAQ
What is an easel?
An easel is a support used by artists to hold a canvas upright while they work on it. Easels come in many different shapes and sizes, but all serve the same purpose: to provide a sturdy surface for the artist to create their masterpiece.
How do I choose an easel?
There are many things to consider when choosing an easel. The first is what type of plein air painting you want to do. If you'll be doing mostly landscapes, then a large and sturdy easel is ideal.
If you're interested in painting still lifes or portraits, a smaller and more portable easel is better. Check out our buying guide above if you want to know more about choosing the best easel.
How much does an easel cost?
Easels typically start at around $70, but the price can vary depending on the features and quality of the easel. Higher-end easels can cost upwards of $500.
However, many artists find that easels are worth the investment, as they provide a stable surface for painting outdoors and help protect your canvas from the elements.
Can I use an easel indoors?
Easels are designed for painting indoors, but you can use plein air easels for painting outdoors. The main difference between plein air and other easels is their lightweight and portable features.
Additionally, easels typically have a lower profile, so you can use them on a tabletop or other surface without blocking the view.
Where can I buy painting easels?
You can check out your local art store if you're looking for an easel. You can also find easels online, but do research to ensure you get a good quality product. There are many cheaply made easels on the market, so it's important to find a well-made one that will last.
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Our team of editors is passionate about art and craft projects, so we only recommend products that we genuinely believe in. We provide honest, unbiased reviews of the best art supplies, and we often consult with industry experts to make our content professional and friendly, even for beginners. So if you're looking for new ways to improve your creativity, we can help!
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