A Shade of Art

You have an idea in your head, a paintbrush in one hand, and a palette in the other. You’re all set to go, but one problem: What are you going to use to hold up the canvas?

Don’t fret.

This blog will cover the 5 most common easels that are commonly used, along with their advantages and drawbacks.

A-Frame Easel

A-frame easels are convenient for artists living or working in a small studio. These easels can handle small canvas and large canvas up to 48”.

Pros:

1. The triangle shape is collapsible and great for placing in storage.
2. The prices are reasonable, ranging from $65 to $300.
3. Great for painting a small canvas while working in a small space.

Cons:

1. Not ideal for a larger canvas.
2. They are not as sturdy as the other options out there, so be careful when painting.
3. Not great if you need a large storage space for your painting trays and art supplies.

H-Frame Easel

The H-frame easel is an upgrade from A-frame easels. They are a better investment because they handle bigger canvases.

Pros:

1. Great storage for painting trays and other art supplies.
2. Can handle canvases from 48” to 108”
3.  They don’t wobble, and they are sturdier than A-frame easels.

Cons:

1. They can be expensive, depending on the brand, ranging from $100 to $1800.
2. You will need extra workspace, so a small studio will not work.
3. They are stationery, so storage may be complicated because the H-frame easel does not fold up and can be placed in the corner of the room, as well as an A-frame easel.

Oversize easel

Oversized easels are for artists who want to make a big impression.

Pros:

1. Excellent for professionals and professional studios.
2. They are sturdy enough to handle a canvas up to 9 feet.
3. Durable and can last for years…even generations.

Cons:

1. They can be costly, ranging from $400 – $2000.
2. They’re bulky, so you need space to operate with them. Small studios are not allowed.
3. They’re heavy, so don’t place them inconveniently anywhere where you need to move them later.

Convertible easel

Do you like to create mixed-media art? Well, convertible easels are great for people working on a piece that uses oil, watercolor, and acrylic paints. They can start as an easel and then can be converted into a table-top easel in less than a minute.

Pros:

1. Great for oil and watercolor artists who like to use horizontal surfaces.
2. Can handle canvases that hold up to 48”.
3. It doesn’t require a lot of space and can be used in a small studio.

Cons:

1. They can also be pricey, from $110 to $900.
2. Not great with handling paint trays or holding other art supplies.
3. Can not work with heavier pieces.

Portable and Table-top easel

On the move? Portable and tabletop easels are perfect for artists who like to travel on the road or for anyone who likes to create caricatures at an art show.

Pros:

1. They are relatively inexpensive, costing between $30 – $500.
2. They catered to beginner artists.
3. Great for travelling or working in small spaces.

Cons:

1. The sizes range up to 36” for portable easels and 48” for table-top easels.
2. They are not very durable if you purchase a lightweight easel, so be careful not to drop them.
3. They don’t have large spaces for painting trays or art supplies.

Unfortunately, one size doesn’t fit all. But regardless of which easel you choose, there is always an option that can fit any situation. It’s like buying clothes, try on each size until you find one that fits you, and go with it.  

Now, start creating today!