How to Build an Art Easel

This page contains affiliate links for which we may be compensated

Last updated: May, 2024

Table of Contents

Materials Needed
Steps:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion

An art easel is an essential tool for any budding artist, providing a stable and adjustable surface to work on. Building your own art easel can be a rewarding and cost-effective project that allows you to customize it to your specific needs. In this guide, we will take you through the process of building an art easel, step by step.

If you find building your own art easel more difficult than anticipated. You can view our article listing some great easels you can buy.

Materials Needed

Before getting started, gather the following materials:

Two 6-foot lengths of 1×2-inch lumber
One 6-foot length of 2×2-inch lumber
Wood screws
Wood glue
Table Saw
Drill with bits
Sandpaper
Tape measure

Steps:

Step 1: Cutting the Lumber

Begin by cutting the lumber to the desired lengths. For a standard-sized art easel, you will need:

Two pieces of 1×2-inch lumber measuring 6 feet long for the legs
Two pieces of 1×2-inch lumber measuring 2 feet long for the top support
One piece of 2×2-inch lumber measuring 2 feet long for the bottom support

Use a saw to make clean, straight cuts, and sand down any rough edges.

Step 2: Assembling the Legs

Take the two 6-foot lengths of 1×2-inch lumber and lay them parallel to each other on a flat surface, with the narrow edges facing up. These will be the legs of the easel. Position them so that they are about 2 feet apart.

Step 3: Attaching the Top Support

Next, take the two 2-foot lengths of 1×2-inch lumber and position them horizontally across the top of the legs, about 6 inches down from the top. These will serve as the support for holding the art canvas. Use wood glue and screws to attach them securely to the legs.

Step 4: Adding the Bottom Support

Now, take the 2-foot length of 2×2-inch lumber and position it horizontally across the bottom of the legs, about 6 inches up from the bottom. This will provide stability to the easel. Attach it to the legs using wood glue and screws.

Step 5: Reinforcing the Joints

To ensure the easel is sturdy, reinforce all the joints with additional screws and wood glue. This will prevent wobbling or instability while painting.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once the easel is assembled, sand down any rough edges and apply a coat of paint or wood stain if desired. Allow it to dry completely before using.

Step 7: Adjusting the Angle

Most art easels have an adjustable angle to accommodate different painting techniques and preferences. To achieve this, you can add hinges or bolts to the top support, allowing it to tilt forward or backward as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is building an art easel difficult?

Building an art easel is a relatively straightforward project that can be completed by individuals with basic woodworking skills. Following our step-by-step guide and using the recommended materials will help make the process easier.

Can I customize the size of the art easel?

Yes, you can customize the size of the art easel according to your preferences and needs. Adjusting the lengths of the lumber pieces will allow you to create an easel that suits your workspace and the size of your preferred canvases.

How long does it take to build an art easel?

The time it takes to build an art easel will depend on your skill level and the complexity of the design. On average, it can take a few hours to complete the project from start to finish. Taking your time and following each step carefully will ensure the best results.

Conclusion

Building your own art easel can be a fun and rewarding project, and it doesn’t require advanced carpentry skills. By following these steps and using basic materials, you can create a sturdy and adjustable easel that will support your artistic endeavors for years to come. So gather your materials, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to unleash your creativity!