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Best Plein Air Easel (Buyer’s Guide)

By Mark Horton Last Updated: December 22, 2022

Do you love painting outdoors? If so, you need a good plein air easel to help you get the job done! In this buyer’s guide, we will discuss some of the best options on the market and what to look for when making your purchase. We will also provide a few tips on how to choose the right easel for your needs. So whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, read on for the information you need to make the best decision possible!

Best Choice
MEEDEN Artist Pochade Box for Plein Air Painting Easel,Compact Aluminum Travel Tripod,Nylon Carry Bag,Portable French Easel with Storage for Outdoor Painting and MakeTravelling Easy and Fun
MEEDEN Artist Pochade Box for Plein Air Painting Easel,Compact Aluminum Travel Tripod,Nylon Carry Bag,Portable French Easel with Storage for Outdoor Painting and MakeTravelling Easy and Fun
Best Seller
This pochade box is an all-in-one solution for the plein air painter. It has a built-in easel that can be adjusted to three different angles, making it ideal for painting in various positions.
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Best Seller
MEEDEN Artist Pochade Box for Plein Air Painting Easel,Compact Aluminum Travel Tripod,Nylon Carry Bag,Portable French Easel with Storage for Outdoor Painting and MakeTravelling Easy and Fun review
MEEDEN Artist Pochade Box for Plein Air Painting Easel,Compact Aluminum Travel Tripod,Nylon Carry Bag,Portable French Easel with Storage for Outdoor Painting and MakeTravelling Easy and Fun
  • Paint Anywhere You Like
  • Large Storage Space
  • Easy Angles Adjustable
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Sturdy Lightweight Tripod
U.S. Art Supply Coronado Large Wooden French Style Field and Studio Sketchbox Easel with Artist Drawer, Palette, Premium Beechwood - Adjustable Wood Tripod Easel Stand for Painting, Sketching, Display review
U.S. Art Supply Coronado Large Wooden French Style Field and Studio Sketchbox Easel with Artist Drawer, Palette, Premium Beechwood - Adjustable Wood Tripod Easel Stand for Painting, Sketching, Display
  • Storage Sketchbox
  • A Classically Designed
  • Adjustable Easel Legs
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Advanced Series
En Plein Air Pro Advanced Series En Plein Air Pro Watercolor Package review
En Plein Air Pro Advanced Series En Plein Air Pro Watercolor Package
  • With Over 80 Square Inches Of Mixing Wells
  • Watercolor Palette Shelf
  • Slik U8000 Tripod
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MEEDEN Artist Pochade Box for Plein Air Painting Easel,Compact Aluminum Travel Tripod,Nylon Carry Bag,Portable French Easel with Storage for Outdoor Painting and MakeTravelling Easy and Fun – Best Seller

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MEEDEN Artist Pochade Box for Plein Air Painting Easel,Compact Aluminum Travel Tripod,Nylon Carry Bag,Portable French Easel with Storage for Outdoor Painting and MakeTravelling Easy and Fun – Best Seller
Read Verified Customer Reviews

Product Description

This pochade box is an all-in-one solution for the plein air painter. It has a built-in easel that can be adjusted to three different angles, making it ideal for painting in various positions. The box also comes with a carry bag and a tripod, so you can easily transport it to your painting location. The box has plenty of storage space for your paints, brushes, and other supplies.

  • Dimensions: 14.17″ x 11.02″ x 17.72″
  • Material: Aluminum

Features:

  • Built-in easel with three different angles (45°, 60°, and 75°)
  • Comes with a carry bag and tripod
  • Plenty of storage space for your supplies
  • Lightweight and portable

If you’re looking for a plein air easel that has everything you need, then this is the one for you. It’s lightweight and portable, so you can take it with you wherever you go. The built-in easel is adjustable to three different angles, making it perfect for painting in various positions. Plus, the box comes with a carry bag and tripod, so you can easily transport it to your painting location. There’s plenty of storage space inside the box for your paints, brushes, and other supplies.

Pros

  • All-in-one solution for the plein air painter
  • Built-in easel is adjustable to three different angles
  • Comes with a carry bag and tripod
  • Plenty of storage space inside the box

Cons

  • None.

Recommended?

Yes. If you’re an artist who likes to paint outdoors, then you need a good plein air easel. But with so many different options on the market, it can be hard to know which one to choose. That’s why we’ve put together this buyer’s guide to help you find the best plein air easel for your needs. We’ve also included a few of our top picks to get you started.

U.S. Art Supply Coronado Large Wooden French Style Field and Studio Sketchbox Easel with Artist Drawer, Palette, Premium Beechwood – Adjustable Wood Tripod Easel Stand for Painting, Sketching, Display – Sturdy Lightweight Tripod

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U.S. Art Supply Coronado Large Wooden French Style Field and Studio Sketchbox Easel with Artist Drawer, Palette, Premium Beechwood – Adjustable Wood Tripod Easel Stand for Painting, Sketching, Display – Sturdy Lightweight Tripod
Read Verified Customer Reviews

Product Description

The U.S. Art Supply Coronado Large Wooden French Style Field and Studio Sketchbox Easel with Artist Drawer, Palette, and Premium Beechwood is a high-quality easel that is perfect for both field and studio use. The Sketchbox Easel features an artist drawer, palette, and premium beechwood construction. The easel is also adjustable, so you can find the perfect angle for your painting or sketching needs.

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The U.S. Art Supply Coronado Large Wooden French Style Field and Studio Sketchbox Easel is a great choice for both beginner and professional artists alike. If you are looking for a high-quality easel that is versatile and easy to use, then this is the easel for you.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Portable
  • Easy to set up and take down
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Not as sturdy as a traditional easel
  • Limited workspace

Recommended?

Yes! If you’re an artist who enjoys painting outdoors, or if you’re looking for a portable easel to take with you on your travels, a plein air easel is a great option. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll recommend our top picks for the best plein air easels, as well as provide an overview of what to look for when choosing one.

Plein air easels are typically lighter and more portable than traditional easels, making them ideal for painting on the go. They’re also easy to set up and take down, which is another plus. And while they may not be as sturdy as a traditional easel, they’re typically more affordable.

En Plein Air Pro Advanced Series En Plein Air Pro Watercolor Package – Advanced Series

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En Plein Air Pro Advanced Series En Plein Air Pro Watercolor Package – Advanced Series
Read Verified Customer Reviews

Product Description

The En Plein Air Pro Advanced Series is a high-quality, professional level watercolor set that includes an easel, palette, and paper. The easel is made of durable aluminum and folds up for easy transport. The palette has a built-in paintbrush holder and mixing area, and the paper is acid-free for archival quality. This set is perfect for the advanced watercolor painter who wants to paint outdoors.

Pros

  • Easel made of durable aluminum
  • Folds up for easy transport
  • Palette has built-in paintbrush holder and mixing area
  • Paper is acid-free for archival quality

Cons

  • More expensive than other easels

Recommended?

The En Plein Air Pro Advanced Series is a great choice for the advanced watercolor painter who wants to paint outdoors. It is made of durable aluminum, folds up for easy transport, and comes with a palette that has a built-in paintbrush holder and mixing area. The paper is acid-free for archival quality. If you are looking for a top-of-the-line easel, the En Plein Air Pro is a great choice.

What is a Plein Air Easels?

A plein air easel is a portable easel that allows artists to paint outdoors. They are smaller and lighter than traditional easels, making them easy to carry around.

Plein air easels come in a variety of sizes and styles. Some have telescoping legs that allow them to be adjusted for different heights, while others have wheels that make them easy to move around.

When choosing a plein air easel, it is important to consider the type of painting you will be doing. If you plan on doing large paintings, you will need an easel that is sturdy and can support a heavy canvas. For smaller paintings, a lighter easel will suffice.

It is also important to consider the weight of the easel. If you plan on hiking to your painting spot, a lighter easel will be easier to carry. However, if you are painting near your car, a heavier easel will be fine.

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Types of Plein Air Easels

When considering a plein air easel, you will first need to decide which type of easel is right for you. The three main types of easels are the French box easel, English field easel, and American tripod easel.

  • The French box easel is the most popular type of plein air easel. It is lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport. The French box easel also has a built-in palette, which is convenient for storing your paints and brushes.
  • The English field easel is similar to the French box easel, but it is larger and heavier. The English field easel is not as popular as the French box easel, but it is still a good option for those who want a sturdy easel.
  • The American tripod easel is the largest and heaviest type of plein air easel. It is not as portable as the other two types of easels, but it is very stable. The American tripod easel is a good choice for those who want a sturdy easel that can hold a lot of weight.

Now that you know the different types of plein air easels, you can decide which one is right for you. Consider the size and weight of the easel, as well as your own personal preferences. With so many options available, you are sure to find the perfect easel for your needs.

How to choose the best Plein Air Easel?

When choosing a Plein Air Easel, the first thing you need to consider is how portable you need the easel to be. If you plan on painting in remote locations, then you’ll need an easel that’s easy to carry and set up. There are many different types of Plein Air Easels on the market, so be sure to do your research before making a purchase.

Another important consideration is the type of painting you’ll be doing. If you plan on oil painting, then you’ll need an easel that’s specifically designed for that purpose. Watercolorists and pastel artists will also need to choose an easel that’s suited for their medium.

Once you’ve considered these factors, you’ll be able to narrow down your choices and select the best Plein Air Easel for your needs. Be sure to read online reviews before making your final decision, as they can give you valuable insights into a product’s quality and performance.

We hope this buyer’s guide has been helpful in your search for the best Plein Air Easel.

The benefits of using a Plein Air Easel

When you’re out in nature, there’s nothing quite like setting up your easel and getting to work. The fresh air does wonders for your creativity, and it’s also a great way to get some exercise. Not to mention, the finished product is always worth the effort.

If you’re an artist who loves painting outdoors, then you need a good plein air easel. But with so many different types and brands on the market, it can be tricky to know which one is right for you.

MEEDEN Artist Pochade Box for Plein Air Painting Easel,Compact Aluminum Travel Tripod,Nylon Carry Bag,Portable French Easel with Storage for Outdoor Painting and MakeTravelling Easy and Fun MEEDEN Artist Pochade Box for Plein Air Painting Easel,Compact Aluminum Travel Tripod,Nylon Carry Bag,Portable French Easel with Storage for Outdoor Painting and MakeTravelling Easy and Fun
  • Best Seller
  • Paint Anywhere You Like
Check Price

Don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this guide, we’ll show you some of the best plein air easels available and give you everything you need to know to choose the perfect one for your needs.

What is Plein Air technique?

The Plein Air technique is a French Impressionist painting style in which artists outdoors to capture the beauty and essence of the natural world around them. This type of painting requires specialized equipment, including an easel that is designed for use in all kinds of weather conditions. In this buyer’s guide, we will recommend some of the best Plein Air easels on the market and help you choose the right one for your needs.

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When shopping for a Plein Air easel, it is important to keep in mind that there are many different types and styles to choose from. The three main types of easels are tripod, field, and French box. Tripod easels are the most popular type of Plein Air easel because they are lightweight and easy to set up. Field easels are also lightweight and easy to set up, but they have a larger work surface that is ideal for paintings that are larger in size. French box easels are the heaviest and most expensive type of Plein Air easel, but they offer the most stability and are perfect for very large paintings.

Now that you know the different types of Plein Air easels, it is time to choose the right one for your needs. If you are a beginner, we recommend choosing a tripod or field easel. If you are an experienced painter, we recommend choosing a French box easel.

What does Plein Air painting?

Plein air painting is the act of painting outdoors. The word “plein” comes from the French meaning “open”, and “air” refers to the outdoors.

Plein air painting allows artists to capture a scene in its natural light and setting. It can be done anywhere there is a view, including urban and rural landscapes, seascapes, and cityscapes.

Plein air painting has been around for centuries, with some of the first recorded plein air painters being the Impressionists. They were drawn to painting outdoors because they wanted to capture the fleeting moments of light and color that they saw in nature.

Nowadays, there are plein air painters of all styles, from traditional to abstract. And while the Impressionists may have been some of the first recorded plein air painters, they certainly aren’t the only ones worth checking out.

So, if you’re interested in trying your hand at plein air painting, or if you’re just looking for some inspiration, read on to learn about 15 of the best plein air painters working today.

What are the types of Easels?

Easels come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. The three most common types are A-frame easels, H-frame easels, and French Easels.

  • A-Frame Easels: A-frame easels are the simplest type of easel. They are lightweight and easy to transport, making them ideal for plein air painting. A-frame easels are adjustable, so you can set them up to suit your needs.
  • H-Frame Easels: H-frame easels are more sturdy than A-frame easels and can support heavier canvases. They are also adjustable, so you can set them up to suit your needs.
  • French Easels: French easels are the most popular type of easel among professional painters. They are sturdy and can support large canvases. French easels are also very portable, making them ideal for plein air painting.

Now that you know the different types of easels, you can decide which one is right for you. If you plan on doing a lot of plein air painting, then a French easel is probably the best option. If you want an easel that is lightweight and easy to transport, then an A-frame easel would be a good choice. And if you need an easel that can support a heavy canvas, then an H-frame easel would be the best option.

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No matter which type of easel you choose, make sure it is sturdy and adjustable so you can set it up to suit your needs. And most importantly, make sure it is comfortable for you to use so you can enjoy your painting experience.

What is the best type of Easel for painting?

The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, such as the type of painting you want to do, the surface you’re painting on, and your budget.

If you’re looking for an easel that’s versatile and can be used for a variety of painting styles, then we recommend checking out an H-frame easel. These easels are great for both indoor and outdoor painting, and can be adjusted to accommodate different canvas sizes.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, then we recommend checking out an A-frame easel. These easels are simple and easy to use, making them ideal for beginners.

Finally, if you’re looking for an easel that’s specifically designed for outdoor painting, then we recommend checking out a French Easel. These easels are lightweight and portable, making them perfect for painting en plein air.

How do you make homemade Easels?

If you’re looking for a homemade easel that is both inexpensive and easy to make, look no further than this tutorial. With only a few supplies needed, you can have your own plein air easel in no time!

First, gather your supplies. You will need: two pieces of wood (we used one-by-fours), screws, a drill, saw, measuring tape, and clamps. For the wood, you can use whatever size you want, but we found that one-by-fours were the perfect size for us. Once you have your wood cut to size, it’s time to start screwing them together.

We started by screwing the two pieces of wood together at the top, making sure that they were flush with each other. Then, we measured out how far apart we wanted the legs to be and marked it on both pieces of wood. Once we had our measurements, we drilled pilot holes and then screwed the two pieces of wood together.

After the legs were attached, we measured and cut the crossbar to size. Once we had the crossbar cut, we attached it to the legs using screws and clamps. And that’s it! Your easel is now complete.

Now that you have your easel, it’s time to start painting! This easel is perfect for both indoor and outdoor painting, so get out there and start exploring your creativity!

What can I use if I don’t have an Easel?

One of the great things about painting outdoors is that you don’t necessarily need an easel to get started. If you don’t have an easel, there are plenty of other ways to support your canvas so that you can paint plein air. Here are a few options:

  • Use a tripod: This is a great option if you have a small or lightweight canvas. Simply attach your canvas to a tripod and you’re good to go!
  • Use a table: If you have a larger canvas, you can set it up on a table or other flat surface. Just be sure to secure it so that it doesn’t blow away in the wind.
  • Use your car: This is a great option if you’re painting in a remote location and don’t have any other support options. Just be sure to secure your canvas so that it doesn’t get damaged.

How do you make tabletop Easels?

Tabletop easels are usually made from wood or metal. They have a tripod base that can be adjusted to different heights. The top of the easel has a horizontal support bar where you can clamp your canvas or paper. Some easels also have a drawer or shelf for storing paints and brushes.

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When buying a tabletop easel, it’s important to consider the following factors:

  • The height of the easel. You want an easel that is comfortable to work on, whether you’re sitting or standing.
  • The weight of the easel. A heavier easel will be more stable, but it can be harder to move around.
  • The materials. Wood or metal easels are the most common, but there are also plastic and aluminum options.
  • The price. Tabletop easels can range in price from around $20 to $200.

Whether you’re a beginner or a professional artist, having a good easel is essential for painting outdoors. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll show you the best plein air easels on the market and help you choose the right one for your needs.

Plein air painting is a great way to connect with nature and get some fresh air. But before you head out into the wild, you need to make sure you have the right gear. A good easel is essential for any plein air painter.

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a plein air easel. First, you need to decide if you want a tabletop or freestanding easel. Tabletop easels are more portable but can be less stable in windy conditions. Freestanding easels are more stable but can be bulky and difficult to transport.

Next, you need to consider the materials. Wood or metal easels are the most common, but there are also plastic and aluminum options. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Finally, you need to decide how much you’re willing to spend. Plein air easels can range in price from around $20 to $200.

Now that you know what to look for, let’s take a look at some of the best plein air easels on the market.

Environmental Protection

One of the main reasons artists choose plein air easels is because they are environmentally friendly. These easels do not require the use of harmful chemicals or toxic materials in order to function properly. Additionally, they are made with recycled materials that would otherwise end up in a landfill.

Plein air easels are also incredibly lightweight and portable, making them perfect for artists who enjoy painting outdoors. These easels can be set up and taken down in a matter of seconds, and they do not require the use of any tools.

If you are looking for an easel that is both environmentally friendly and easy to use, then a plein air easel is the perfect choice for you.

Safety Tips

Plein air painting can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, there are a few safety concerns that you should keep in mind when painting outdoors. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe while painting plein air:

  • Choose a safe location: Make sure to pick a spot that is not too close to traffic or other potential hazards.
  • Dress appropriately: Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty and consider wearing a hat or sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye out for animals, weather conditions, and other people who might be in the area.

FAQs

What is the best plein air easel for me?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question – it depends on your specific needs and preferences. However, we've put together a buyer's guide to help you choose the best plein air easel for your needs.

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What are the different types of plein air easels?

There are three main types of plein air easels: tripod, French box, and English box. Tripod easels are the most popular type, as they're lightweight and easy to set up and take down. French box easels are also popular, as they're compact and easy to transport. English box easels are the largest and most sturdy type, making them ideal for larger paintings or for painting in windy conditions.

What are the different features of plein air easels?

The main features to look for in a plein air easel are portability, stability, and adjustability. Portability is important if you plan on painting in different locations, as you'll need to be able to easily transport your easel. Stability is important to ensure that your easel doesn't tip over in windy conditions or when you're working on a large painting. Adjustability is important so that you can customize the easel to your own height and working style.

What are the different brands of plein air easels?

There are many different brands of plein air easels on the market, but some of the most popular include Jullian, Cretacolor, and Guerrilla Painter. Each brand has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's important to do your research to find the best one for your needs.

What is the difference between a field easel and a plein air easel?

Field easels are larger and heavier than plein air easels, making them less portable. However, they're more sturdy and have more storage space, making them ideal for larger paintings or for painting in windy conditions. Plein air easels are lighter and more portable, making them ideal for painting in different locations.

Conclusion

Plein air easels are an essential tool for any artist who wants to paint outdoors. There are many different types and styles of easels available on the market, so it is important to choose one that suits your individual needs. We hope that our buyer’s guide has helped you narrow down your options and find the perfect plein air easel for you.

Contents

  • 1 MEEDEN Artist Pochade Box for Plein Air Painting Easel,Compact Aluminum Travel Tripod,Nylon Carry Bag,Portable French Easel with Storage for Outdoor Painting and MakeTravelling Easy and Fun – Best Seller
    • 1.1 Product Description
    • 1.2 Pros
    • 1.3 Cons
    • 1.4 Recommended?
  • 2 U.S. Art Supply Coronado Large Wooden French Style Field and Studio Sketchbox Easel with Artist Drawer, Palette, Premium Beechwood – Adjustable Wood Tripod Easel Stand for Painting, Sketching, Display – Sturdy Lightweight Tripod
    • 2.1 Product Description
    • 2.2 Pros
    • 2.3 Recommended?
  • 3 En Plein Air Pro Advanced Series En Plein Air Pro Watercolor Package – Advanced Series
    • 3.1 Product Description
    • 3.2 Pros
    • 3.3 Cons
    • 3.4 Recommended?
  • 4 What is a Plein Air Easels?
  • 5 Types of Plein Air Easels
  • 6 How to choose the best Plein Air Easel?
  • 7 The benefits of using a Plein Air Easel
  • 8 What is Plein Air technique?
  • 9 What does Plein Air painting?
  • 10 What are the types of Easels?
  • 11 What is the best type of Easel for painting?
  • 12 How do you make homemade Easels?
  • 13 What can I use if I don’t have an Easel?
  • 14 How do you make tabletop Easels?
  • 15 Environmental Protection
  • 16 Safety Tips
  • 17 FAQs
    • 17.1 What is the best plein air easel for me?
    • 17.2 What are the different types of plein air easels?
    • 17.3 What are the different features of plein air easels?
    • 17.4 What are the different brands of plein air easels?
    • 17.5 What is the difference between a field easel and a plein air easel?
  • 18 Conclusion

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About Mark Horton

I'm Mark, an artist. I love to create pieces that make people feel something, whether it's happiness, sadness, or anger. I want my artwork to evoke a reaction in people and get them thinking about the world around them.

I grew up in a small town in Texas and always loved art. I would spend hours doodling in my notebooks during class and experimenting with different mediums. After high school, I decided to pursue art as a career and never looked back.

I've had several solo exhibitions throughout the United States, and my work has been featured in several magazines and online publications. I'm currently working on a series of paintings that explore the refugee crisis.

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