Essential Accessories to Enhance Your Easel Setup

Have you ever paused in the middle of painting to search for a missing brush or squinted at your canvas because the light wasn’t quite right? These minor hassles can disrupt your flow. It might even make you cut your art sessions short. The truth is, your easel setup doesn’t end with the easel itself. The accessories you add can transform your workspace, keeping you comfortable and organized so you can focus on creating.

In the sections below, we’ll highlight accessories many artists find helpful: palette trays, brush holders, clip-on lamps, and more. Consider these add-ons as convenient helpers that save you from annoying moments. So, let’s jump in!

Why Accessories Matter

An easel alone does much work holding your canvas, but extra pieces can make a big difference in your comfort and productivity. Think of it like upgrading a kitchen with a better set of knives or nicer pots. It doesn’t instantly make you a five-star chef, but it does remove small hassles that slow you down.

Accessories can:

• Help You Stay Organized: No more digging through random boxes for a brush.
• Improve Your Posture: Stools, supports, and clip-on lights can reduce slouching and squinting.
• Make Cleanups Easier: Items like brush holders and drip trays keep paint spills in check.
• Encourage Longer Art Sessions: When your space is cozy and functional, you’ll want to keep going.

1. Palette Holders and Trays

You might already have a standard paint palette, but where does it go while you work? If you rest it on your lap, there’s a chance of spills or messy clothes. A palette holder or tray that attaches to your easel can fix this problem. Some models clip onto the side of the easel. Others include a small shelf that supports your palette at a comfortable angle.

Benefits of a Dedicated Palette Area

• Better Color Mixing: When your palette is at the same height as your canvas, it’s easier to see how your colors will appear in your painting.
• Less Neck and Back Strain: You won’t have to look down all the time, which is especially nice if you’re painting for a few hours.
• Quick Access: Your palette is right there if you need more paint or want to adjust a color.

If you’re on a budget, you can make your shelf with a small piece of wood and a couple of C-clamps. But a custom-made palette holder can be worth the splurge, mainly if you paint often.

2. Brush Holders or Brush Rests

Have you ever left a brush on the edge of your easel shelf, only to see it roll off and land on the floor? It’s a small moment of chaos that might break your focus. A brush holder or rest solves that problem by giving each brush a designated spot.

Some brush holders come with a row of slots, each sized to fit different brush handles. Others look like small racks that you can place on any flat surface. On the other hand, a brush rest might be a simple bar where you can lay a brush without worrying that it’ll roll away.

3. Clip-On Lights or Lamps

Lighting is a significant factor in how you see your colors. Dim or uneven light can distort the look of your paints, making it challenging to judge hues accurately. That’s why a clip-on lamp is a game-changer for many artists. You can position it to shine directly on your canvas, giving you a clear view of your actions.

• Clip-On Lamps: These attach to your easel or a nearby table. Some have flexible necks, so you can angle them exactly where you need them.
• Floor Lamps: If you don’t want to attach anything to your easel, a standing lamp with an adjustable head can also work.
• LED vs. Bulbs: LED lights run cooler and don’t add extra heat to your workspace, which can be nice if you’re painting for a while.

4. Apron or Smock with Pockets

This accessory doesn’t clip onto your easel, but it’s still a key piece of gear. An apron or smock with multiple pockets can keep small items like pencils, erasers, or a phone at your fingertips. You won’t have to rummage through drawers or step away from your easel when you need something.

• Cotton Aprons: Breathable and easy to wash, though they might stain if you use heavy oils or acrylics.
• Waterproof Options: Great if you work with watery paints or splatter techniques.
• Pockets: Look for aprons with at least two or three pockets to organize supplies.

5. Easel-Mounted Storage Bins

Some people use a small table next to their easel, but that might not be an option if you’re in a tight space. Easel-mounted storage bins give you extra room to store paint tubes, pencils, or a water container. These bins often hook onto the side or back of the easel frame.

Perks of a Mounted Storage Bin

• Saves Space: Ideal if your studio or living area is cramped.
• Reduces Clutter: Keep frequently used supplies close so they don’t spread out over your workspace.
• Easier Cleanup: You can lift and move the entire bin, making it more straightforward to clean around your easel.

6. Paper Towel or Rag Holder

Even if you’re neat, painting can get messy. A dedicated holder for rags or paper towels helps you clean brushes or quickly wipe spills. Some easels come with a built-in bar for this. If yours doesn’t, add a bare paper towel hook or a clamp holding a small towel.

• Quick Cleanup
• Less Paint Dripping
• Better Hygiene

7. Portable Chair or Stool

A folding stool or adjustable chair can be a lifesaver during long sessions. Even a quick break can help your back and legs recover, especially if you’ve been on your feet for hours.

• Height-Adjustable Stool: This lets you alternate between standing and sitting without messing up your posture.
• Back Support: If you want to sit for extended periods, a chair with good lumbar support can reduce aches.
• Portable: Some stools fold flat, so you can stash them in a closet or trunk if you like to paint outdoors.

8. Reference Image or Device Holder

If you’re painting from a photo or digital file, you might keep looking down at your phone or tablet, which can strain your neck. A reference holder attaches to the easel or sits nearby, keeping your image at eye level. This is especially handy if you do realism or portrait work, where you constantly compare your canvas to the reference.

9. Easel-Friendly Organizers for Travel

Do you like painting outside? If you go on location, you’ll want accessories that are easy to fold or pack. A portable easel might come with a built-in compartment, but if yours doesn’t, consider:

• Lightweight Brush Cases: These cases roll up, holding your brushes securely without bending the bristles.
• Collapsible Water Containers: They fold flat or scrunch down, perfect for watercolors or acrylics.
• Compact Palettes: Some even come with lids that seal the paint for short-term storage.

10. Maintaining Your Accessories

Adding these items to your setup is one thing, but you also want them to last. Here are a few quick tips to keep your gear in good shape:

• Clean Brushes and Holders: Dried paint can turn a brush holder into a sticky mess. Wipe it down soon after each session.
• Wipe Palette Holders: If paint hardens on the clips or tray, it can make them hard to adjust later. A damp cloth or gentle scraper can help.
• Inspect Knobs and Clamps: If you notice any wobbling, check if the clamp’s threads are worn out or if something needs tightening.
• Fold Chairs Properly: If you have a folding stool, store it in a dry area to avoid rust or mildew.

Where to Buy Easels and Accessories

If you’re hunting for high-quality easels or any of the accessories mentioned, a great place to look is Blick Art Materials. They offer many easel types—from heavyweight wooden frames to travel-friendly aluminum stands. While browsing, you can also check out their collection of brush holders, palette trays, and other handy tools. Whether you’re just starting or have been painting for years, you’ll likely find something that fits your budget and needs.

Sample Accessory Checklist

Final Thoughts

Enhancing your easel setup with key accessories can transform your art sessions. You’ll have an organized, well-lit station that helps you stay in the zone. Whether you prefer painting for hours in a cozy studio or setting up in a beautiful outdoor spot, minor tweaks can boost your comfort and the quality of your work.

It might take some experimenting to find the perfect arrangement. You might start with a brush holder or a better light source, then add more items as you see fit. Over time, your space reflects your style and needs. The real goal is creating an environment that supports your creativity without getting in the way.