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A good easel is an essential tool for any professional artist. It provides a stable workspace, helps display works-in-progress at the right angle, and supports a range of art styles and mediums. Whether you work in oils, acrylics, or watercolors, the right easel can make a noticeable difference in your workflow and comfort during long hours of creation.
When choosing an easel, there are several factors to consider. Stability is crucial, especially for larger canvases or detailed work. Adjustability allows you to work at different heights and angles, and portability might be important if you like to paint outdoors or need to move your setup frequently. Other considerations include the type of material, storage features, and whether the easel fits comfortably in your space.
We reviewed some of the most popular easels designed for professionals to identify the ones that balance functionality, durability, and value.
Best Easels for Professional Artists
We’ve rounded up the top easels for professional artists to help you find the perfect match for your workspace and creative needs.
1. MEEDEN Extra-Large Art Easel
This easel blends solid craftsmanship with versatile features, making it an excellent choice for professional artists who demand stability, mobility, and ergonomic ease.
Pros
- Reliable and stable hardwood construction.
- Adjustable design accommodates varied canvas sizes.
- Caster wheels offer easy mobility in studio spaces.
Cons
- Assembly may require patience for some users.
- Larger size requires sufficient workspace.
- Slight movement in sliders under heavy use.
The MEEDEN Extra-Large Easel impressed us with its high-quality craftsmanship. The solid beech wood construction provides a robust and stable foundation, ensuring the easel doesn’t wobble or shift mid-project. We loved how the H-frame design added to its sturdiness, offering genuine reliability while working on larger canvases. The elegant finish also adds a premium touch to any creative space.
Its adjustable capability is fantastic and ideal for professional setups. We appreciated the flexibility to modify the easel’s height and angle based on what medium we worked with. Being able to tilt it for watercolor or position it upright for oils felt intuitive and made long sessions more comfortable. The ability to hold two canvases simultaneously adds a layer of innovation that’s especially helpful for multitasking or displaying works.
Mobility is another standout feature. The smooth-rolling casters make it simple to rearrange the studio or move outdoors. Once positioned, the locking brakes kept it stable and secure. However, the assembly process took effort despite clear instructions, so some patience helps. It’s also worth noting that the easel’s larger size may demand a bit of planning for where it will fit best in your space.
2. MEEDEN Large H-Frame Easel
This sturdy, professional-grade easel is ideal for artists seeking a reliable and versatile studio companion.
Pros
- Durable craftsmanship with polished beech wood for long-term use.
- Adjustable angles reduce fatigue and improve comfort while painting.
- Smooth mobility with locking wheels for flexible studio setup.
Cons
- Assembly may take time without prior experience.
- Some may find certain sliding parts less stable.
- Height adjustment requires careful handling.
This easel stands out for its robust build quality. The polished beech wood gives it a premium feel and ensures it can handle heavy canvases without wobbling. We appreciate how the adjustable angles let us find an ergonomic position for different projects, making lengthy sessions less tiring.
Its ability to hold two canvases at once is a smart feature. Whether we’re working on two pieces or combining a painting with a reference image, the convenience is unmatched. The sturdy knobs and hardware also feel solid and dependable during adjustments.
Moving the easel around is a breeze thanks to its PU casters. Despite the convenience, some parts can feel slightly loose, so we recommend taking care when moving or adjusting. Overall, it’s a versatile and professional studio choice for serious artists.
3. MEEDEN Studio Easel
This easel stands out as a great choice for professional artists looking for a durable and adjustable studio companion.
Pros
- Built with high-quality beechwood for a sturdy design.
- Adjustable height and angle make it versatile for various painting styles.
- Smooth caster wheels make it easy to move and lock in place.
Cons
- Assembly can take some time and requires close attention to instructions.
- The included tools may not be the best quality for the task.
- The dark wood color might not be as rich as some expect.
We found this easel easy to work with once assembled, offering impressive stability while painting. The craftsmanship of the solid beechwood gives it a premium feeling, and the adjustable features allow us to work comfortably, whether sitting or standing. From oils to watercolors, it handled everything seamlessly.
Its mobility is another win, thanks to the silent caster wheels, which lock securely when needed. This made reorganizing our workspace effortless without compromising on steadiness during use. The tray is also a nice touch, keeping our supplies within easy reach.
While the assembly process went smoothly overall, it’s worth noting that it took a little over an hour. Some of the hardware tools included were tricky to work with, so having a better set on hand could save time. Despite these minor inconveniences, the quality and performance of this easel outweigh the cons.
4. RRFTOK Aluminum Artist Easel
This easel is a solid option for artists looking for portability and practicality without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Adjustable height for diverse uses
- Convenient paintbrush tray included
Cons
- Stability could be improved on uneven surfaces
- Not ideal for heavy or oversized canvases
- Assembly instructions could be more detailed
This easel quickly stood out for its portability. The lightweight aluminum frame makes it surprisingly easy to pick up and carry, whether we’re heading to an outdoor location or just shifting it around the studio. Adjusting the height is very intuitive, giving us the flexibility to work while sitting or standing. Plus, the little plastic tray for brushes and tools feels like an added bonus.
However, we noticed some wobbliness when using it in rugged outdoor terrains. Adding weight to the center hook helps steady it, but it’s something to keep in mind if you prefer rock-solid setups. Taller or larger canvases might push its limits as well, so we’d recommend it more for medium-sized projects.
Overall, the RRFTOK easel is a practical choice for artists prioritizing portability and affordability. It’s a no-fuss solution for quick setups or casual painting sessions, though it might not be everyone’s pick for more demanding pieces.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best easel for professional use, there are several key factors to consider. Evaluating these features ensures that we select the right tool to support our artistic process.
1. Stability and Durability
We need an easel that provides steady support for our work. Look for sturdy materials like hardwood or metal and check for reinforced joints. Avoid options that wobble or feel lightweight under pressure.
2. Adjustability
A good easel should accommodate various canvas sizes and offer adjustable angles. This flexibility allows us to work comfortably in different positions, whether standing or sitting.
3. Portability
For professionals who travel or work in multiple locations, portability is crucial. Compact, foldable designs with easy-to-carry features are ideal for transportation without sacrificing stability.
4. Workspace and Storage
Some easels come equipped with trays or compartments for brushes, paints, and tools. These features help us stay organized and keep supplies within reach while we work.
5. Size and Space
Before purchasing, we should consider how much studio space we have. Large floor-standing easels are perfect for studios, while tabletop models suit smaller workspaces.
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Material | Hardwood or metal for durability |
| Adjustability | Flexible canvas size and angle options |
| Portability | Foldable, lightweight, easy to carry |
| Storage Options | Built-in trays for tools and supplies |
| Size | Fits well in your available space |
By focusing on these aspects, we can confidently choose an easel that aligns with our needs and complements our art practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
When choosing an easel for professional art, features like stability, durability, and portability often define the best options. We focus on common questions to help artists make informed decisions without unnecessary complexity.
What are the essential features to consider when purchasing an easel for professional use?
We should consider factors such as adjustability, material quality, and usability for various art styles. A sturdy design that supports different canvas sizes and angles is crucial. Portability matters for artists who move between studios or work outdoors.
How do stability and build quality impact the performance of easels for professional artists?
Stability prevents unwanted movement while working, ensuring precise strokes. Durable build quality means the easel can handle frequent use without warping or breaking, which is especially vital for heavier or larger canvases.
Can you recommend durable easels suitable for regular painting by professional artists?
Some highly-rated options include H-frame easels made of hardwood like beechwood or oak. These easels are known for their robustness and are ideal for intensive, long-term use in studio settings.
For artists who paint outdoors, what are the best lightweight plein air easels currently available?
Plein air easels crafted from aluminum or collapsible wood are excellent choices. They’re lightweight and easy to carry, with some designs featuring built-in compartments for supplies, making them perfect for outdoor use.
What distinguishes a French easel from other types of artist easels, and why might it be preferred?
French easels combine a portable design with storage compartments and a sturdy base. They’re versatile, offering a balance between studio-style stability and travel-friendly features, which many professionals find appealing.
What type of easel did prominent artists, like Bob Ross, prefer for their artwork creation?
Bob Ross often used simple, functional wooden A-frame or H-frame easels. These provided the necessary support for his wet-on-wet technique, which required a stable surface for quick layer application.