Easel vs Desk

Many people have a picture of a ‘real’ artist vigorously toiling away at an easel, so one of the first things they put on their shopping list is an easel. Before discussing easels, let me just point out that millions of excellent paintings and drawings have been created on a table, desk, on the floor or even hanging on the wall, so if you don’t try all methods you may end up with an easel when you prefer to work another way.

There are nice drafting tables that will tilt or be flat and have lots of places to store your drawing media. They are suitable if you have a permanent area to use that is not required for anything else.

You may have a little study desk. If you have a big book (or another object suitable, you can create a tilt of 30-60 degrees for leaning on a canvas, canvas board or drawing pad (best against a board). Working flat on the desk works well for some who have no other option (and a good overhead or natural light source). Not ideal if any kind of accurate perspective is required in your project.

FLOOR PROTECTION

If your ‘studio' is also your shared lounge or other household room, use waterproof floor coverings (like house painters use) if you want to avoid paint or painty water from causing a new permanent (unwanted) look. If you get to use the garage, you could worry less (and there would possibly be more framework options for hanging LED light panels above.