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Artists who enjoy painting outdoors or prefer a portable setup for studio work often turn to French easels. These versatile tools combine storage and functionality, serving as a compact solution for carrying art supplies and providing a sturdy, adjustable surface for creating art. Designed with convenience in mind, French easels are a favorite among plein air painters and artists who value organisation and portability.
When choosing the best French easel, several factors are important to consider. Weight and size play key roles, as these easels are meant to be mobile. The material—typically wood—should be durable but not overly heavy. Stability is another critical aspect, especially if the easel will be used outdoors where uneven ground or wind could pose challenges. Additional features like built-in storage compartments and ease of assembly also add value.
We evaluated multiple French easels to determine which ones provide the best mix of stability, convenience, and portability for artists on the go.
Best French Easels
We’ve put together a list of the best French easels to help you choose one that fits your artistic needs and style.
1. MEEDEN French Easel
An impressive option if you’re searching for a versatile and portable French easel to support your creative projects.
Pros
- Offers sturdy stability, even on uneven terrain.
- Combines a classic aesthetic with practicality for storage.
- Lightweight and compact for easy transport and storage.
Cons
- Some assembly can be tricky without instructions.
- Certain parts may need extra care during setup.
- Legs might feel slightly less secure with repeated use outdoors.
Using this easel, we quickly noticed how solid its base feels, thanks to anti-slip feet and metal fittings that keep everything steady. The adjustable slider and tray provide extra security for the canvas, making the painting experience smooth and well-supported.
The thoughtful inclusion of dual drawers made organizing supplies much easier. Everything from brushes to paints had its rightful spot, freeing up the workspace. When folded, it transformed seamlessly into a compact tabletop setup, taking up minimal space.
Transporting this easel outdoors felt manageable. Its lightweight yet sturdy frame, paired with the shoulder strap, ensured convenience. The walnut-colored finish adds a touch of elegance, blending functionality with a polished look ideal for travel or home use.
2. VISWIN French Easel
This easel is a fantastic choice for artists seeking portability, durability, and convenience in one package.
Pros
- Strong and stable design for outdoor use.
- Ample storage without looking bulky.
- Easy to set up and adjust.
Cons
- Legs may feel a bit stiff initially.
- Weight might be challenging for longer trips.
- A little learning curve with the setup process.
The VISWIN French Easel feels reliable and versatile, whether we’re painting at home or outdoors. Its sturdy beechwood construction gives it a professional appearance, and the natural finish is a nice touch for any artist’s studio or gear collection.
Using it, we found the adjustable legs useful on uneven surfaces, especially when working outside. The included storage drawer makes organizing paints and brushes a breeze. It’s spacious but not overwhelming, so it doesn’t take up unnecessary space when folded.
Transporting it is convenient thanks to the shoulder strap and comfortable leather handle. However, it’s slightly heavier than some alternatives, which may make longer walks feel tiresome. Overall, it’s practical and provides a solid painting experience for beginners and advanced artists alike.
3. U.S. Art Supply Large Beechwood French Easel
If you’re looking for an adaptable, portable French easel with ample storage, this might be a great fit for your artistic needs.
Pros
- Versatile and easily adjustable for multiple painting angles.
- Compact design makes carrying it around simple.
- High-quality beechwood construction feels sturdy and reliable.
Cons
- Assembly can feel a bit finicky at first.
- Some parts may feel tight right out of the box.
- Shoulder strap could be more padded for longer use.
Setting this up is straightforward, though we found the locking mechanisms could use a little breaking in. Once it’s adjusted, though, it holds everything snugly in place, allowing us to focus entirely on our work.
We loved how organized everything felt with the divided storage compartments. There’s plenty of room for brushes, paints, and even larger supplies, which makes it great for taking directly to the studio or outdoors.
The lightweight yet sturdy design impressed us. It’s comfortable to carry around thanks to its compact folding setup, though the shoulder strap could benefit from being more ergonomic for extended trips. Overall, a reliable companion for both casual and serious artists.
Buying Guide
When selecting a French easel, there are key factors we need to consider to ensure it meets our needs. The right easel can make painting outdoors or in a studio both practical and enjoyable.
Portability
French easels are known for their portability, but weight and size can vary significantly. We should look for an easel that is lightweight and compact enough for easy transportation but still sturdy.
Material
French easels are often made from wood or aluminum. Wooden easels typically have a classic appearance and are durable but may be heavier. Aluminum easels are lightweight and resistant to wear but might lack the charm of wood.
Adjustability
Adjustable features are important. We need to be able to set the height and angles comfortably for both sitting and standing positions. This ensures a proper working posture.
Storage Options
Most French easels include built-in storage for paints, brushes, and other tools. We should check for compartments and drawers that suit our organization preferences. Spacious storage can keep supplies accessible while painting.
Stability
Stability is essential, especially if we plan to use the easel outdoors. Look for models with sturdy legs and non-slip feet to ensure the easel stays steady, even on uneven surfaces.
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Weight | Lightweight but sturdy |
| Material | Wood for durability, aluminum for portability |
| Adjustability | Height and angle options |
| Storage | Spacious compartments |
| Stability | Durable legs, non-slip feet |
Choosing a French easel involves balancing portability, storage, and stability to meet our artistic needs effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
When choosing the best French easel, it’s important to consider factors like portability, durability, and specific features suited for outdoor or studio use. Let’s address some of the key questions to help guide your decision.
What distinguishes a French easel from other painting easels?
French easels combine a paint box, a tripod, and an easel into one portable design. They’re designed for versatility, allowing artists to paint outdoors with ease while still being functional for indoor use.
Which French easels are most recommended for plein air watercolor artists?
For plein air watercolor artists, lightweight models with adjustable angles for varied paper orientations are ideal. Easels with built-in storage compartments and compact designs are particularly useful in outdoor settings.
How does a professional artist choose the best easel for studio work?
Professional artists often prioritize stability and materials. A sturdy design that can accommodate larger canvases, as well as sufficient storage space for tools, tends to work best for studio setups.
What are the features of a high-quality lightweight plein air easel?
A lightweight plein air easel should feature a collapsible structure, durable but light materials like aluminum or hardwood, and easy adjustability. It should also be compact enough for transport while remaining stable in outdoor conditions.
Can you suggest some reliable brands that manufacture French easels?
Brands like Jullian, Mabef, and Sienna are well-regarded for their quality French easels. They offer durable options with a balance of portability and functional design suited for various artistic needs.
What are the benefits of a vintage French easel compared to modern designs?
Vintage French easels often showcase superior craftsmanship and durability due to the use of high-quality wood and hardware. Modern designs, however, might offer lighter materials and innovative features for additional convenience.