Plein Air Easels
How Do I Choose an Easel for Plein Air Painting?
Choosing an easel for plein air painting involves considering portability, stability, and ease of setup. Here’s a guide to help you select the perfect plein air easel:
Portability: Plein air easels should be lightweight and easy to carry. They are usually made from aluminium or lightweight wood. Pochade boxes can hold small panels within their lid when open, and can also store paints and brushes for transport. They can be placed on a table-top or attached to a tripod to turn it into a freestanding plein air easel.
Stability: A stable easel is crucial for outdoor painting, where uneven ground and wind can be factors. Choose an easel with sturdy legs and secure locks. Some plein air easels have spiked feet for better ground grip.
Ease of Setup: Quick and easy setup is essential for plein air painting. Look for easels with simple mechanisms and minimal parts.
Adjustability: Some plein air easels will tilt to a horizontal position, and some won't, so it's worth double-checking this if you often work with high-fluid media, such as watercolor, and require this ability.
Storage and Convenience: Consider easels with built-in storage for brushes, paints, and other painting tools. Pochade boxes and French Box easels are particularly useful as they combine an easel with storage compartments.
Durability: Outdoor conditions can be harsh, and plein air easels are made from durable materials that can withstand the elements. The lifespan of wooden easels can be prolonged by periodically oiling the wood with a little linseed oil on a rag.
Top Recommendations:
French Box Easels: Combine a sketching easel with a storage box and are a popular choice for plein air artists.
Pochade Boxes: Compact and highly portable, ideal for travel and quick setups.
Plein Air Easels: The easels we have curated on this page are recommended for larger works and offer a balance of stability, portability and adjustability.
When choosing an easel for plein air painting, balance these factors to find an easel that suits your style and needs, ensuring a trouble-free and productive outdoor painting experience.