The Etchr Slate Mini Satchel is a small minimalist satchel designed to help artists sketch on the go. The Slate Mini Satchel is weather proof and easily connects to any photography tripod for stability. We asked Louise Coates to expand on her thoughts about the Slate Mini for this Artist Review of the Month.
Etchr Slate Mini
by Louise Coates
I have quite a few Etchr products now, including their amazing sketchbooks. As a vegan artist, their company ethics appeal to me greatly so I knew, as an outdoor lover, I had to have the Slate Mini and it is worth every penny in my opinion.
Firstly, it is very well made. I have put its durability and weatherproof claims to the test this summer in Yorkshire’s mixed weather. It handled it no problem, keeping everything dry. The moveable velcro straps are super strong and keep all my pens, pencils etc. safe and secure as do the zip and velcro fastening compartments. It’s an all-round strong and secure bag.
Switching the long strap about is easy. I had every combination you can wear and carry with this bag worked out in less than 15 minutes. The straps move, lengthen, unclip, and vice versa with ease, so nothing about getting this into your desired position is laborious or frustrating.
I’m an artist that likes to zone in on small details when out and about, rather than painting entire landscapes. Quite often I draw and paint in detail when out at a location and this bag makes it just so easy to start sketching, and if needed, for long periods of time. I’m as comfortable with it resting on my knee or laid on the grass with it as I am working with it on my tripod or being stood with it out in front of me resting on my waist.
It’s also worth mentioning that it’s not meant to hold ‘everything but the kitchen sink’. It holds plenty for what you need for a day, or even a few days plein air painting or drawing. This is what it was designed for – think of it as a soft version of a pochade box. I just make sure I plan for what I need and only take those supplies. I probably wouldn’t enjoy it as much as I do if it was over stuffed.
When using it you can definitely tell that It’s been designed by artists, for artists. It has certainly made my creative outings easier and looks great. It sits nicely on the body and is comfortable to carry. I’ve walked, climbed and mountain biked with it on me and I love it. I was even joined by my neighbour’s cat on my last outing this weekend to a grass and wooded area right near my house. I think she loves it too! Highly recommended to all those who love taking their art practice outside.
About Louise Coates
I went to art school to studied fine art 20 years ago and then onto uni to study design. After leaving, getting a job in the charity sector, I never stopped sketching but after my mother died at the start of the pandemic, I got my supplies out, and got to work on practising and re-learning my love for art. I knew working full time I would need a good 3 to 4 years of this practice in my spare time to hone my skills again so I guess this would be my journey to becoming a full-time artist, hopefully.
Further Reading
Two Artists Review Jackson’s Adjustable Artist Apron
How to Create the Best Digital Photographs of Your Artwork
Inside the Sketchbook of Jessica Jane Charleston
Shop Etchr Slate Mini on jacksonsart.com
