We were interested by Donna Bailey’s comment ‘I was looking for a table top easel where the central support rod could be lowered in order to work comfortably on larger works while sitting down. Given my lack of space, I also required the drawer to pull out sideways as opposed to forwards. The Jackson’s Wentworth Box Easel ticks all these boxes and it’s hard to believe that anyone can make a profit particularly when it’s on sale.’ We asked Donna to expand on what she liked about the easel and to explain how she combats any issues with it.
Jackson’s Wentworth Table Box Easel
By Donna Bailey
Jackson’s Wentworth Box Easel is a H-frame construction able to support canvases up to 85 cm. This is generous for a table-top easel and is thanks to the design of the lower canvas support.
Ordinarily, these cannot be set below the base-height of a box easel, yet, it is possible to adjust the Wentworth up to 28 cm. When done so, the lower support hangs in front of the edge of a work surface to accommodate medium-sized canvases. It is a clever configuration – perfect for the artist whose workspace is small.
This design is not just practical though. It is also ergonomic. For myself, the ability to lower the height of a canvas is as important as being able to raise it. I have found that since switching from my traditional box easel to Jackson’s Wentworth, I no longer experience discomfort in my arms, neck and shoulders caused by working at the wrong height.
For added convenience, the easel incorporates a large side-loaded drawer with wooden dividers. The two biggest sections are 36 x 10 cm and I am able to store my long Jackson’s Shinku Synthetic Brushes inside. The two smaller sections measure 17.5 x 10 cm, which is perfect for pencils or charcoal sticks. The drawer when pulled out reveals dove-tailed joints and a sturdy base, which I am confident should not buckle or warp. The gold latches close securely and the carrying handle is comfortable.
There are only two points to note. First, it is practical to place something underneath the easel to prevent it from sliding backwards when in use. I tend to affix a small amount of a kneadable eraser to the four corners of my easel and this solves the problem. Second, the frame will start to slip back if too much weight is applied against it.
Resetting the position is as simple as pulling the frame forwards and tightening the adjustment screws again. I have found that the only way to prevent this from ever occurring is to adopt a gentler hand. That said, it should not deter one from purchasing Jackson’s Wentworth Box Easel. It is, after all, a practical and ergonomic choice for any artist.
About Donna Bailey
Donna is a self-taught artist living in Staffordshire. After leaving a career in academia, she started drawing in 2017 and now works full-time as an artist. She uses graphite and charcoal to create portraits in a mostly photorealistic style.
Further Reading
Plein Air Oil Painting Set Ups: Pochade and French-style Box Easels
We Test the New Frazer Price Watercolour Palette Box
