Choosing between a canvas board stand and an easel can be tricky. They seem similar but serve different purposes. Here’s what sets them apart and how each can help in your art practice.
Canvas Board Stand
A canvas board stand is a small, simple tool. It holds the canvas board steady. Most are portable and light. They work well with small or medium canvases. Some have limited tilt adjustments but not much height adjustment. These stands are best for light work on smaller boards.
Pros of Canvas Board Stands
– Portability: Canvas board stands are easy to carry.
– Compact Size: They fit in small rooms and studios.
– Affordable: They cost less than easels.
Cons of Canvas Board Stands
– Limited Adjustability: Few height and angle adjustments.
– Smaller Canvas Support: Best for lighter canvases only.
– Less Stability: Heavier boards may tip over.
Easel
An easel is a strong, adjustable frame that holds many canvas sizes. It gives more control over angles and height, which is useful for larger canvases. Some easels work for painting and display, and many types of easels meet different artist needs.
Pros of Easels
– Flexible Adjustments: Change height, angle, and tilt.
– Supports Big Canvases: Ideal for larger canvas work.
– Multi-Use: Useful for both painting and display.
Cons of Easels
– Space Needs: They take up more room.
– Costly: Easels often cost more than board stands.
– Less Portable: Most easels are heavy and hard to move.
Comparing Canvas Board Stand and Easel
| Feature | Canvas Board Stand | Easel |
| Adjustability | Limited tilt and height | Full angle and height control |
| Portability | Limited tilt and height | Less portable, often heavy |
| Canvas Support | Small to medium size | Works for all canvas sizes |
| Stability | Holds light work well | Built for large or heavy boards |
| Purpose | For light art and small work | For painting and displaying art |
| Price | Budget-friendly | Often costly |
| Space Needs | Great for small rooms | Needs more studio space |
When to Use a Canvas Board Stand
A canvas board stand is great for beginners. It’s simple and light. Artists in small spaces find it helpful. Its price and size make it ideal for simple projects. If you like to move around, this stand is easy to carry. This type of stand is best for artists working on smaller pieces or those who enjoy lighter, more portable tools.
When to Use an Easel
If you work on larger projects, choose an easel. Easels adjust to fit various heights and angles. They give a stable frame for detailed work. Easels are good for artists who spend hours on one piece. Most easels handle larger, heavier canvases. For artists who want display options, easels work well for showing completed work.
Types of Easels
1. Studio Easel: For indoor use. Heavy, stable, and suited for big canvases.
2. Plein Air Easel: For outdoor use. Lightweight and foldable.
3. Tabletop Easel: Small, fits on desks, great for tiny art.
4. Convertible Easel: Changes from vertical to horizontal.
Availability in Other Countries
1. North America (USA, Canada)
– Widely available in major art supply stores like Michaels, Hobby Lobby, and Blick Art Materials.
2. Europe
– Many options are available at art stores like Cass Art (UK), Boesner (Germany), and Sennelier (France).
3. Asia
– Canvas stands can be found in local art stores, with major cities having larger selections.
– Online retailers like Taobao (China), Amazon India, and Lazada (Southeast Asia) provide a range of choices.
Choosing the Right Tool
Deciding between a canvas board stand and an easel depends on your work. If you work on small art or travel, choose a board stand. If you want a stable, adjustable frame, pick an easel.