A good easel needs to adjust for height, accommodate various work sizes, and ideally offer storage—all while remaining stable. Meeting these requirements in a truly portable design is a challenge.

The solution? A lightweight camera tripod fitted with simple shop-made accessories. The tripod provides height adjustment and stability, while a wooden mast—just a grooved board—allows for adjustable supports that hold a panel or canvas securely. A T-nut in the mast threads onto the standard 1/4-20 camera tripod bolt, making setup quick and tool-free.  No modifications to the tripod are required.

For transport, the tripod and mast break down to fit neatly in a 5-gallon bucket alongside brushes, paints, and supplies.

An optional pochade box adds a shelf for materials. Designed to hook over the front legs of the tripod, it can be a simple open box or a more elaborate folding design with built-in brush racks, paint storage, and a central mixing area. When closed, it forms a compact briefcase, with a webbing handle for easy carrying.

Launch Gallery