What are the Different Types of Easels

Whether you are an artist or you want to give something to a person that loves art, easels are one of the best gifts you could make. However, not all easels are the same and not all artists are in love with the same art stands. That’s why understanding them would help you figure out which artist easel is the best match. Each of these easels have their own characteristics which in fact makes them special.

A-Frame (Lyre) Art Stands

The A-frame easels are triangular-shaped stands that are famous for their 3 legs where two of them are placed in front and one in back. Because these stands have also a horizontally positioned wooden part, at first sight, the overall stand resembles a lot on the letter ‘A’ which in fact is the reason for its name. Except for being appealing, these stands are easy to store and can be placed literally anywhere. They are available in a range of sizes from which in fact depends the final price. When talking about the material, the most commonly used one for their creation is wood.

Portable (Tripod) Easels

Tripod or also known as Plein air easels are types of stand racks that are designed to be taken outdoors. Usually, the tripod stand racks for arts are extremely easy to carry around and set up. As the name implies, they are designed with three legs and are usually made of aluminium. Although, wood tripods are not an exception, the aluminium ones are preferred because they are way easier to maintain and work with. Usually, these French-style stands have a shelf that s designed to hold the paint palette. Just like with the previous model, these types of easels are available in a range of sizes and finishes, so consequently, the price can range from one model to another.

H-Frame Easels

As the name implies, these stands got their name because of their shape in the letter ‘H’ letter. Although similar with the ‘A’ shaped, the ‘H’ ones have a stronger base which makes them more durable. The main ‘downside’ is that they are bulkier and can take up more storage space which makes not the ideal present for those who live in a smaller home. Depending on the model, some of them have a paint tray which is ideal for storing art supplies.

Giant Easels

These types of easels are designed for those who work on larger canvases. Generally speaking, they are made of wood and are extremely strong in order to support the extra weight and size of large canvases. Depending on the model, these stands can handle paintings between 215 – 305cm high. As already mentioned, these racks for paintings are bulky and heavy which means that they aren’t portable.

Convertible Easels

Also known as a hybrid, convertible easels are quite popular and one of the most fascinating types of easels available on the market. This is because they can be easily converted from their normal easel position to the one that resembles a tabletop. This is ideal for different artists as it allows to be used by watercolour painters and pastel artists who need to work on a horizontal surface. But also for other artists like oil and acrylic painters who need their paintings to be in an upright position. Depending on your needs, these stands can handle paintings that are 215cm high. In some models, paint tray can also be included which is ideal for holding the painter’s supplies. One thing is certain, just like the giant models, these ones can also take up a lot of floor space.

Single Mast Easels

These types of art racks are simple and affordable but way more fragile than the other types of easels. However, they can still get the job done and are recommended for beginning artists and students. They can be made either of wood or aluminium and the price can mainly depend on the size and used material.

Tabletop Easels

Last but not least, the tabletop type of art stands are designed for artists who don’t have that much of a free space for work. As you can imagine, these racks are quite small and can be placed on a tabletop which is a sign that they are quite portable. Consequently, they do not take up a lot of room so they can be stored literally anywhere you want. Regarding the material, the most common one for their design is wood.

As you can see, there is a large selection of art stands from which you can choose. And all of them are here to meet the different customers’ needs. That’s why taking into account all of yours or another person’s wishes, work and habits is ideal in order not to make the wrong choice. When in the search for the right one, make sure to choose a supplier that can provide you with durable, sturdy and quality art racks.