Best Easels for Artists in 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

Published: June 28th, 2024

🎨Choosing the right easel can make a world of difference, whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting to dabble in painting. It's not just about holding your canvas; it's about giving you the stability and comfort to enjoy your creative journey.

From sturdy studio easels to lightweight options perfect for the outdoors, we've taken a close look at 2024's top models to help you find the one that fits your needs best.

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Overall Best: US Art Supply Medium H-Frame Studio Easel

U.S. Art Supply Medium Wooden H-Frame Studio Easel with Artist Storage Tray - Mast Adjustable to 96" High, Holds Canvas to 48" - Sturdy Beechwood Holder Floor Stand - Display Paintings, Portraits

Our top pick for the best easel overall is the US Art Supply Medium H-Frame Studio Easel. Crafted from sturdy hardwood, it's designed to offer outstanding durability and flexibility. The lockable castors allow for easy mobility, so you can adjust it to catch the best light. This easel stands out with its capacity to hold canvases up to 48 inches tall, and it can tilt and fold easily, giving you versatile positioning options. Additionally, the built-in storage tray is a valuable feature for keeping your art supplies organized and within reach. Whether you’re a professional or an avid hobbyist, this easel delivers on both functionality and quality.

View TLDR Review: U.S. Art Supply Medium Wooden H-Frame Easel

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$99.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the U.S. Art Supply Medium Wooden H-Frame Easel? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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What size canvas can the U.S. Art Supply Medium Wooden H-Frame Studio Easel hold?

The U.S. Art Supply Medium Wooden H-Frame Studio Easel can hold canvases up to 48 inches high, according to the manufacturer's description. So whether you're working on something small or tackling a larger piece, this easel has you covered. Our research has found that this easel is particularly appreciated for its adjustability. You can set the height anywhere from 6 inches off the floor up to 42 inches, making it easy to work either sitting down or standing up. This comes in handy if you like to change positions while painting. However, a few details to keep in mind: Some people note that setting it up can be a bit tricky, especially with the written instructions not being super clear. Taking your time (maybe even getting a friend to help) could make things more manageable. Also, if you've got low ceilings, be cautious with the center mast to avoid bumping into anything. Overall, it's a solid easel with great flexibility in terms of canvas size and height settings. Just be ready to spend a little extra time on the initial setup and you'll be all set for your next creative project!

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How easy is it to assemble the U.S. Art Supply Medium Wooden H-Frame Studio Easel?

From what we've found, putting together the U.S. Art Supply Medium Wooden H-Frame Studio Easel isn't too complicated, though it might take some patience and attention to detail. Most folks seem to get it done in about 15 to 20 minutes. However, a few have mentioned that the instructions aren't the clearest, which can lead to small mistakes that need fixing. The easel itself is made from beechwood, and it holds canvases up to 48 inches high. Its adjustable mast can reach up to 96 inches, which is handy if you're working with different canvas sizes. This adjustability lets artists find the right spot to work, whether they're sitting or standing. There have been some mentions of occasional wobble, particularly with the canvas ledge, but it seems to be a minor issue. If you do run into this, you might try adding weights or adjusting the setup for better stability. When it comes to design, those who have it generally appreciate the solid wood construction and its look in a studio setting. Even if you hit a few bumps with the setup, it usually ends up being a reliable and sturdy option for painting. If you're using this easel for larger canvases, just be sure your space can accommodate its full extension of 96 inches. Despite some minor setup challenges, the easel offers good quality and functionality, making it a dependable option if you're looking for something versatile in your studio.

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How tall is the U.S. Art Supply Medium Wooden H-Frame Studio Easel?

If you're curious about the height of the U.S. Art Supply Medium Wooden H-Frame Studio Easel, it can stretch up to 96 inches tall. That's pretty big, so it's great for both sitting and standing while you work. Just keep in mind that you'll need enough space, especially if your room has a low ceiling. When the easel arrives, it comes partially assembled with all the hardware you need organized in labeled bags. The manufacturer's description says that the assembly instructions are illustrated to help you out. But just so you know, our research found that people had mixed experiences with putting it together. Some folks found it pretty straightforward—like Elizabeth and Heather, who managed to assemble it in just 15 to 20 minutes, thanks to the clear labels on the parts. On the other hand, a few others ran into some hiccups. They mentioned that the instructions weren't always clear, especially around certain parts like ratchet components and the center post. This sometimes meant they had to try assembling it a few times before getting it right. To make things easier for yourself, take a good look at the instruction illustrations before you start. Visualizing the fully assembled easel can also help. You can always check online guides or contact customer service if you hit any snags. Overall, with its adjustable height, this easel offers a lot of versatility for artists who want to switch between seated and standing positions.

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Runner-up: Jack Richeson Upright Easel

Jack Richeson La Vara Easel, Table Top (885101)

Our runner-up is the Jack Richeson Upright Easel, a reliable and adaptable choice for those who work with various painting mediums like oil and acrylics. Known for its robust construction from high-quality wood, this easel promises durability and can easily accommodate different canvas sizes. This means you can switch up your projects without needing multiple easels. Users appreciate its stable design, which provides the comfort needed for extended painting sessions. Its solid build ensures it will be a lasting addition to your studio.

View TLDR Review: Jack Richeson La Vara Table Top Easel

This tabletop easel receives a moderate score due to its sturdy construction and positive feedback from many users who appreciate its size and functionality. However, several customers report significant issues with instability, material quality, and incomplete components, highlighting a gap between expectation and reality. Overall, it presents reasonable value for those needing a smaller, portable easel.

7.85

Overall

Lowest at Amazon

$40.09 at Amazon

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$39.85 at Walmart

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Budget Pick: Art Alternatives Adjustable Sketch Easel

Art Alternatives Sonoma Sketchbox Easel,Brown

For artists on a budget, the Art Alternatives Adjustable Sketch Easel is a standout. Despite its affordable price tag, it doesn’t skimp on essential features. This compact and lightweight easel is perfect for art students or hobbyists who need something that's both functional and easy to store. It adjusts to fit different canvas sizes and angles, making it a versatile addition to your art setup. Its simplicity and practicality make it an excellent choice for those newly exploring the world of painting.

View TLDR Review: Sonoma Sketchbox Easel

The Art Alternatives Sonoma Sketchbox Easel receives a high score primarily due to its attractive design, solid construction, and portability, making it a favorite among many users for both casual and semi-professional use. However, some customers have reported issues with stability and assembly complexity, suggesting it may not suit everyone’s needs, particularly in tighter spaces. Overall, it offers great value for artists looking for versatility and quality at a reasonable price.

7.25

Overall

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$105.00 at Amazon

Best for Outdoor Painting: Strada Easel

Specifically designed for outdoor painting, the Strada Easel is a top choice for plein air artists. Constructed from lightweight aluminum, it’s easy to transport and set up wherever your creativity takes you. Despite its light weight, this easel is incredibly sturdy and can withstand windy conditions, ensuring your painting session is not interrupted by nature’s elements. Its durability and portability make it a reliable companion for any outdoor artistry adventure.

View TLDR Review: MEEDEN Plein Air Easel

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$69.95 at Amazon

Best Storage Option: Maimeri Wood Sketchbox Easel

If you’re looking for an easel that doubles as a storage solution, the Maimeri Wood Sketchbox Easel is perfect. This well-designed easel features an integrated storage compartment, which helps keep your art supplies organized and easily accessible. Its compact form makes it an excellent addition to any art space, providing both style and functionality. This easel not only supports your canvases but also helps maintain a tidy workspace, allowing you to focus more on your creative process.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

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