Isabella Flores
Painters have different preferences for their working positions. Some prefer to stand while painting, using a drafting table or an easel, while others opt for sitting at a desk or on the floor. An easel is an upright support that holds a canvas or painting at an angle of about 20° to the vertical, and it can be used for both creating art and displaying finished pieces. Artists may also use a flat or tilted drawing table, or a regular table with a table easel on top. These various setups allow painters to find a comfortable position and angle for their artwork, reducing strain on their bodies and improving their overall experience.
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What You'll Learn
Sitting vs. standing
Painters have different preferences for their working position, with some choosing to stand and others opting to sit. There are valid reasons for both choices, and some artists even alternate between the two or start painting on the floor!
Those who prefer to stand may use an easel, which is an upright support that holds the painting at an angle of about 20° to the vertical. This setup allows painters to view their work from a comfortable angle, reducing distortion and making it easier to step back and evaluate their progress. Standing at an easel also provides a large range of motion, enabling artists to spread out and make bold, gestural strokes. This position is particularly well-suited for large paintings and certain mediums like watercolour, pen and ink, and scratchboard. Additionally, standing can be more comfortable for those who experience back pain when sitting for extended periods.
On the other hand, sitting while painting offers stability and can be more comfortable for long sessions, especially when combined with a drafting table or tall chair. Sitting is often preferred for detailed work, such as illustrations and drawings, and for smaller pieces that don't require a large range of motion. It is also a practical choice for artists who enjoy holding a glass of wine in one hand while they paint!
Ultimately, the decision to sit or stand while painting is a matter of personal preference and the specific requirements of the artwork. Artists are encouraged to experiment with different setups to discover what works best for them.
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Using an easel
There are various types of easels to consider, each with its own advantages. For example, H-Frame easels are sturdier and can hold a greater range of canvas sizes, with some models featuring practical storage solutions such as shelves or drawers. Crank Handle Easels are ideal if you need to adjust the height of your easel, as they can easily be raised or lowered. If you're an artist who likes to alternate between sitting and standing while working, this feature may be particularly useful. Table easels are another option, offering convenient storage solutions and the ability to fold up when not in use. For artists who work with fluid watercolours, a watercolour easel that tilts to a horizontal position can help prevent spills and drips. Field easels are smaller and lighter than studio easels, making them a good choice for artists who work indoors with limited space or who want a portable option for outdoor painting.
While using an easel can provide benefits, it may take some time to get used to this way of working. Additionally, not all artists require an easel, and amazing artwork can certainly be created on flat surfaces. Ultimately, the setup you choose should be based on your personal preferences and what works best for your art practice.
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Using a drafting table
A drafting table is a specialised type of desk or table that is typically used for drawing, sketching, or blueprinting. It is also sometimes called a drawing table or architect's table. Drafting tables usually have a large, flat surface that can be tilted at various angles and adjusted to different heights to suit the user. The tilt mechanism helps to match the angle at which the subject is observed, reducing distortion and improving accuracy.
The drafting table surface is typically covered with a thin vinyl sheet called a board cover, which provides an optimal surface for pen and pencil use. This protective layer also prevents damage to the wooden surface of the board. Some drafting tables also feature built-in storage for drawing tools and supplies, such as drawers and compartments, as well as adjustable light fixtures to illuminate the work area.
When using a drafting table, ensure that the tabletop size is suitable for your needs, accommodating all your materials with ample room to work. The materials used in the table's construction are also important to consider. Drafting tables can be made entirely of wood or feature a metal frame with a wooden or laminate top.
The adjustability of the tabletop angle is a key advantage, allowing for both drawing and writing tasks. Additionally, the height of the table can be adjusted to promote a comfortable working posture. This adjustability makes drafting tables popular among artists, architects, engineers, and other professionals who require precision in their work.
Experimentation is essential when setting up your drafting table. Discover what angles and heights work best for your specific needs and preferences. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, a drafting table can enhance your creative process by providing a stable, adjustable, and spacious work surface.
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Using a flat table
One challenge of using a flat table is that it can cause distortion in your artwork. This happens because, when observing objects, we typically view them from a 90-degree angle, but a flat table doesn't always allow for this angle. As a result, your artwork may end up looking distorted or stretched out without you realizing it. To address this issue, you can use a table easel or a drawing board that you can brace against the table to create a tilted surface. This will help you achieve a better viewing angle and reduce distortion.
Another factor to consider when using a flat table is ergonomics and physical strain. Working on a flat surface for extended periods can cause discomfort and strain on your body, especially your back and neck. To mitigate this, you can use a separate drawing board that you can adjust to a comfortable angle, or invest in a tilted drawing table if you have the space and budget. Additionally, consider using a tall chair or standing desk to improve your posture and reduce aches and pains.
While a flat table can be used for painting, some artists prefer a tilted surface, such as an easel or drafting table, as it allows them to better match the angle at which they observe their subject. This reduces distortion and makes it easier to step back and evaluate their work. Ultimately, the decision between a flat table and a tilted surface depends on personal preference, the scale of the work, and the artist's physical comfort.
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Using a tilted table
A tilted table or surface can help to reduce distortion in your work. When drawing or painting on a flat surface, you are viewing the subject at a 90-degree angle, but the angle of the surface does not match the angle at which you are viewing the subject. This can result in a skewed drawing without you realizing it. A tilted table can help to correct this by better matching the angle at which you are viewing the subject. This is why most experienced artists prefer to work on a tilted surface.
A tilted table can also help with evaluating your work. It is easier to step back and judge your work from a distance when it is on a tilt, as you can leave the work in place and simply back up, which allows for a bit more fluidity while working. On a flat surface, you would have to set up the work against a wall to properly evaluate it.
However, some artists may find a tilted table restrictive and prefer the mobility offered by a flat table. Additionally, it can be difficult for beginners to adjust to a tilted surface, as it is different from how we are typically taught to write and draw.
Ultimately, the decision to use a tilted table depends on personal preference and comfort. Artists should experiment with different setups to discover what works best for them.
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Frequently asked questions
An easel.
An easel is an upright support used for displaying and fixing something resting upon it, at an angle of about 20° to the vertical.
Easels are typically made from wood, aluminium or steel.
There are display easels, facilitation easels, darkroom easels, studio easels, field easels and plein air easels.
The word 'easel' is derived from the old Germanic synonym for donkey.
