Imagine standing before a breathtaking landscape, the sun warming your face, and a gentle breeze rustling the leaves. You’re ready to capture that beauty with your watercolors, but then… frustration strikes. Which easel should you bring? The wrong one can weigh you down, wobble in the wind, or simply not hold your supplies. Choosing the perfect watercolor plein air easel can feel like a puzzle, with so many shapes, sizes, and features to consider.
Many artists dream of painting outdoors, but the practicalities can be a hurdle. You need something sturdy enough for a breeze, light enough to carry, and versatile enough to hold your paints, brushes, and water. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the choices and end up with an easel that doesn’t quite fit your needs. This can stop you from enjoying the freedom and inspiration of painting in nature.
But what if finding the right companion for your outdoor painting adventures could be simple? In this post, we’ll break down what makes a great watercolor plein air easel. We’ll explore the key features that matter most, from portability to stability, and help you discover an easel that will make your plein air painting sessions a joy, not a chore. Get ready to discover the secrets to a more enjoyable and productive outdoor painting experience!
Our Top 5 Watercolor Plein Air Easel Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Watercolor Plein Air Easel Detailed Reviews
1. MEEDEN Plein Air Easel for Painting: Adjustable Travel Watercolor Easel Stand for Adults- Collapsible Portable Tripod for Artists
Rating: 9.5/10
Unleash your inner artist with the MEEDEN Plein Air Easel! This adjustable tripod easel is designed for artists on the go, making outdoor painting a breeze. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, this easel offers fantastic support and versatility for all your watercolor adventures.
What We Like:
- It’s super adjustable, going from 17 to 65 inches high. You can tilt it or set it up straight to match your painting style.
- The easel is easy to put together and take apart. It has a strong buckle to keep things in place.
- The rubber feet give it a great grip, so it won’t slide around while you paint.
- The drawing board is nice and sturdy, measuring 15.5 x 12 inches. It can hold up to 5 kg, which is about 11 pounds.
- It’s lightweight, only 2 kg (around 4.4 pounds), and comes with a carry bag, making it easy to take anywhere.
- The built-in mixing palette is a handy addition. It’s big enough to hold your paints and even has a spot for your brush cup.
- MEEDEN stands behind their product and offers great customer support if you have any problems.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s durable, the plastic drawing board might not be as sturdy as wood for very heavy canvases.
- The maximum weight capacity of 5 kg might be a limitation for artists using very large or heavy materials.
This MEEDEN easel is a fantastic companion for anyone who loves to paint outdoors. It’s well-built, user-friendly, and packed with features that make painting a joy.
2. Advanced Series En Plein Air Pro Watercolor Package
Rating: 8.5/10
Unleash your inner artist with the Advanced Series En Plein Air Pro Watercolor Package! This all-in-one kit is designed for painters who want to create beautiful art outdoors. It brings the convenience of a studio right to your favorite scenic spots. Get ready to capture the world in vibrant watercolors!
What We Like:
- The easel is bigger, giving you more space to work. It measures 12” x 15.75”, which is great.
- The watercolor palette shelf is huge! It has over 80 square inches of mixing wells. This lets you mix many colors easily, just like in your studio.
- The SLIK U8000 Tripod is very stable. It has a wider stance, so it won’t wobble even if it’s windy.
- You can paint wherever you want with this package.
What Could Be Improved:
- The package might be a bit heavy for some people to carry long distances.
- More color options for the easel itself could be nice.
This package truly elevates your plein air painting experience. You’ll love the extra space and stability it offers for your creative adventures.
3. Magnetic Sketch Easel Plein air easels Plein air watercolorist Camera Tripod easels Sketch fits on a Camera Tripod (Easel and Easy-dismantling)
Rating: 8.7/10
Capture your inspiration anywhere with this versatile Magnetic Sketch Easel. This easel is designed for artists who love painting outdoors, whether you’re a watercolorist, sketch artist, or landscape painter. It easily attaches to your camera tripod, making setup a breeze. The strong magnetic sides securely hold your palette, water, and brushes, while the drawing surface accommodates sketchbooks and paper. Its lightweight design makes it perfect for backpacking and travel, ensuring you can create art wherever your adventures take you.
What We Like:
- Strong magnetic sides hold your art supplies securely.
- Attaches easily to any camera tripod with a 1/4″ bolt.
- Perfectly crafted with smooth finishes for a great feel.
- Lightweight and easy to travel with, ideal for hiking and backpacking.
- Versatile for watercolors, gouache, oils, urban sketching, and more.
- Quick and simple to assemble, even at sunset.
- Can be used in your studio as well as outdoors.
- Makes your art better and your life happier!
What Could Be Improved:
- The open flat size (11.8”x 15.7”) might be a bit limiting for very large works.
This easel is a fantastic companion for any artist who seeks to create art in the great outdoors. It’s a thoughtful gift for artists of all levels looking to record the beauty of the world.
4. PLEINLY Portable Watercolor Easel Set + BP-70 Backpack. Plein Air Painting & Drawing Easel with Wet Panel Carrier
Rating: 9.1/10
Unleash your inner artist and paint anywhere with the PLEINLY Portable Watercolor Easel Set + BP-70 Backpack. This all-in-one kit is designed for artists who love to paint outdoors, offering comfort and convenience no matter where inspiration strikes. From sitting to standing, you can adjust the easel to find your perfect painting spot. The set even includes a special carrier to keep your wet paintings safe as you transport them.
What We Like:
- Super Portable: Everything folds down neatly into a large 70L backpack, making it easy to carry to any outdoor location.
- Comfortable Painting: You can paint while sitting or standing, and the easel board adjusts for the best angle. The included stool is padded for comfort.
- Versatile Setup: The easel can be set up for both left and right-handed artists, and you can position your supplies close or far from your artwork.
- Great for Wet Paintings: The wet panel carrier protects your artwork, and the sketchbook is made with 100% cotton paper that handles wet media well.
- Plenty of Extras: You get two palettes for mixing colors, a sturdy tripod that can also hold cameras, a sketchbook, and clips to hold your paper.
- Built for Durability: The tripod is strong enough for heavy cameras, and the stool is made with aluminum legs.
What Could Be Improved:
- Backpack Sold Separately: While the set is great, the large 70L backpack is an additional purchase.
- Steep Learning Curve for Modularity: The modular design offers lots of options, but it might take some time to figure out all the possible setups.
This PLEINLY easel set is a fantastic investment for any artist who wants to explore plein air painting. It offers a complete and comfortable experience, allowing you to focus on your art, not your equipment.
5. PLEINLY Portable Watercolor Easel Set – Plein Air Painting & Drawing Easel with Wet Panel Carrier
Rating: 9.1/10
Unleash your inner artist and paint anywhere with the PLEINLY Portable Watercolor Easel Set. This all-in-one kit is designed for comfortable and creative plein air painting, bringing the studio experience to the great outdoors. It includes everything you need to get started, from a sturdy easel and tripod to a comfy stool and even a sketchbook.
What We Like:
- It’s super portable, making it easy to take your art supplies anywhere you want to paint.
- The adjustable easel lets you paint sitting or standing, so you can find the perfect angle.
- The included wet panel carrier keeps your artwork safe and sound while you travel.
- You get two different palettes, giving you lots of options for mixing colors.
- The tripod is strong and can even be used for cameras or smartphones.
- The 100% cotton sketchbook is great for watercolor and mixed media.
- It’s designed to be comfortable and easy to use, even for long painting sessions.
What Could Be Improved:
- The backpack is sold separately, so you’ll need to buy that if you want a dedicated carrying solution.
- While it comes with a lot, some artists might want even more clips or a larger drawing board.
This PLEINLY set is a fantastic investment for any artist who loves to paint outdoors. It provides comfort, convenience, and all the essentials for a great plein air experience.
Your Essential Guide to Choosing a Watercolor Plein Air Easel
Painting outdoors, or “en plein air,” is a wonderful way to capture the beauty of nature. To do this comfortably and effectively, you need the right tools. A watercolor plein air easel is your portable studio. It holds your paper or canvas steady, keeping your paints and brushes within easy reach. Let’s explore what makes a great plein air easel.
Key Features to Look For
Portability and Weight
When you’re hiking to a scenic spot, every ounce counts. Look for an easel that folds up compactly. It should be lightweight but still sturdy enough to handle wind. Many easels are made from aluminum or lightweight wood, making them easy to carry.
Stability
Nothing is more frustrating than your easel wobbling in the breeze. A good plein air easel has a stable base. Some have adjustable legs that can spread wide for better balance on uneven ground. Look for features that prevent tipping, like a hook to hang a weight or wider leg stances.
Adjustability
You’ll want to paint at different angles and heights. An easel that lets you tilt your painting surface and adjust its height is very important. This helps you find the most comfortable position for your work. Some easels have telescoping legs for easy height changes.
Storage and Organization
Keeping your watercolor supplies organized is key. Many plein air easels have built-in trays or shelves for your paints, water cups, and brushes. This keeps everything neat and accessible, so you don’t have to dig through your bag.
Durability
Your easel will go on many adventures. It needs to be built to last. Check the materials and construction. Strong joints and weather-resistant finishes will ensure your easel stands up to the elements and frequent use.
Important Materials
Aluminum
Aluminum is a popular choice because it’s very light and strong. It resists rust, which is great for outdoor painting. Many high-quality plein air easels are made from aluminum alloys.
Wood
Wood easels, often made from beech or pine, offer a classic look and feel. They can be very sturdy. However, wood can be heavier than aluminum and might need extra care to protect it from moisture.
Plastic
Some simpler or more budget-friendly easels use plastic. While lightweight, plastic can sometimes be less durable and might not offer the same stability as metal or wood, especially in windy conditions.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improved Quality
- Sturdy construction with strong hinges and joints.
- Smooth adjustment mechanisms for height and tilt.
- Non-slip feet for better grip on different surfaces.
- A wide base for maximum stability.
- Thoughtful storage solutions for art supplies.
Reduced Quality
- Wobbly legs or a flimsy construction.
- Difficult or sticky adjustment knobs.
- Lightweight but weak materials that bend easily.
- Lack of features for securing your artwork.
- Poorly designed or insufficient storage.
User Experience and Use Cases
Ease of Setup and Takedown
A good plein air easel should be quick and easy to set up. You want to spend more time painting and less time fiddling with your equipment. Simple locking mechanisms for legs and tilting surfaces are a big plus.
Comfort While Painting
The easel’s height and tilt adjustments directly impact your comfort. Being able to find the perfect angle for your artwork prevents neck and back strain. A well-designed easel makes the painting process enjoyable.
Versatility
While designed for watercolors, many plein air easels can also hold canvases or sketchpads. This makes them versatile for different types of outdoor art. Some can even be used for displaying finished pieces.
Common Use Cases
- Painting landscapes in parks or natural settings.
- Capturing city scenes or street art.
- Sketching or drawing outdoors.
- Attending outdoor art workshops or classes.
- Setting up a temporary art station at an event.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Watercolor Plein Air Easels
Q: What is the main purpose of a watercolor plein air easel?
A: Its main purpose is to hold your watercolor paper or board steady while you paint outdoors, making the process more comfortable and organized.
Q: Are there different types of plein air easels?
A: Yes, you can find table-top easels that sit on a surface, and tripod easels that stand on their own with adjustable legs.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on a good plein air easel?
A: Prices can range from $30 for basic models to $150 or more for high-end, feature-rich easels. Quality often matches the price.
Q: Can I use a plein air easel for oil or acrylic painting?
A: Many plein air easels are versatile and can hold canvases for oil or acrylics, but always check the weight capacity and support features.
Q: How do I clean and maintain my plein air easel?
A: For aluminum easels, a damp cloth is usually enough. For wood easels, wipe them clean and consider a sealant to protect them from moisture.
Q: What if I’m painting on a windy day?
A: Look for easels with a hook to hang a weight, or ensure the legs have a wide stance for better stability. Some have clamps to secure your paper.
Q: Is a lightweight easel always better?
A: Lightweight is good for carrying, but it shouldn’t sacrifice stability. You need a balance between portability and sturdiness.
Q: What size artwork can most plein air easels hold?
A: Most easels can accommodate standard paper or canvas sizes, often up to 11×14 inches or larger, but it’s always good to check the easel’s specifications.
Q: Do I need a special easel for watercolor specifically?
A: While some easels have features tailored for watercolor (like shallow trays for brushes), most general plein air easels work well for watercolors.
Q: Where can I buy a watercolor plein air easel?
A: You can find them at art supply stores, online retailers like Amazon, and through specialty art equipment websites.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
My name is Carlos Gadd, and I am the creator of AirPurityGuide.com.. With a passion for footwear, I share my experiences, insights, and expertise about shoes. Through my blog, I aim to guide readers in making informed decisions, finding the perfect pair, and enhancing their footwear knowledge. Join me on this journey to explore everything about shoes!