Easels

     I've recently upgraded to a new set of easels. I used the Dave Ramsey advice and saved up my money over time.

     After a few months I had enough to start weiling and dealing, and went to a few stores around town. After surveying the local art and craft shops I found that Hobby Lobby actually had some of the best deals. I talked with one of the store managers and was able to walk out of the store with two very nice easels for only around $150. It would have been around $300 at asking price.

     Do not underestimate the power of negotiation.

Anyways here are the easels and some descriptions.

The Old Easel

My first post-college easel. Made it out of plywood from Ace Hardware for around $20. Funds were tight, but it got the job done.

The Two New Easels

The French Style Easel:  "French easels are for the traveling artist. French easels contain a sketchbox, and easel, and a carries in a smaller package. The skecthbox holds paint supplies and a palette, and the legs and canvas arm collapse fro ease of travel. They are excellent for painting outdoors, also known as plein air painting." 

It even folds up into this convenient briefcase size so you can carry it with you. It holds all your paints , palette, and up to three wet canvases. 

The H-Style Easel: This easel is sturdy enough to hold up to an 8 foot canvas, but also is small enough that it doesn;'t take up much space in the studio. 

It can also turn on it's side so you can get really close for details.

Here it is holding my canvas