Are you looking for an easel that suits how you work—whether that’s at the kitchen table, in a busy studio, or outside in the fresh air? At bradburyART, we know that choosing the right easel can make your creative process more comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable.
In this guide, we’ll break down the main types of easels—desktop, free-standing, and studio—and help you match them with your needs, whether you’re working in oils, watercolours, or something else entirely.
Desktop Easels: Compact and Convenient
If you don’t have much space, or like to work seated at a table, a desktop easel might be just what you need. These are especially handy for watercolour and mixed media work, or for anyone starting out.
One of our top picks is the Create Finn Desk Stand Easel with Side Drawer. It’s sturdy, tilts easily, and includes a handy drawer to keep brushes or pencils close by. It’s a popular choice for home studios or artists who want to tidy away their setup when not in use.
Free-Standing Easels: Flexible and Functional
Free-standing easels are a solid all-rounder—great for medium to large canvases, and a good fit for both oil and acrylic painters. They suit artists who want a bit more freedom with height and angle adjustments, especially when working upright or standing.
The Elements Erne A-Frame Easel is a traditional studio-style option that folds flat when you’re not using it, while the Create Aluminium Table Easel (NORE) is a more lightweight choice that folds up small and travels easily—ideal for classes or painting on the move.
👉 View the Erne Easel
👉 View the Aluminium Table Easel
Studio Easels: Built for Bigger Projects
If you’ve got a dedicated space and tend to work on larger canvases, a studio easel is worth considering. These are made for frequent use and offer excellent stability, especially for oils and heavier work.
The Elements Welland Studio Easel is our recommendation here. It’s a full H-frame easel with wheels, a storage tray, and all the adjustments you’d expect in a pro-level setup. It handles big canvases with ease and is built to last.
👉 View the Welland Studio Easel
Things to Think About When Choosing an Easel
Before deciding, ask yourself a few quick questions:
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Where will I use it? A kitchen table, dedicated studio, or outdoor space might all call for different types.
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What size do I usually work at? Make sure the easel fits your typical canvas or paper size.
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Do I need to store it away easily? Some easels fold flat, others don’t.
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How adjustable should it be? Angle, height, and tilt all matter depending on your medium.
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What’s my budget? There’s something for every price range, and we’re happy to talk you through the options.
Still Unsure?
We’re always happy to help you choose the right easel—whether that’s in-store or online. Feel free to pop in to bradburyART or get in touch with us for a recommendation that fits your needs and space.
You can also browse our full Easel Collection or check out our blog post on Customer Favourites: Best-Selling Easels at bradburyART to see what others are buying.
