That’s awesome to hear Carol Ann! It’s always great to hear about specific recommendations. Here’s a link for anyone interested!

Great Terri!!

This is the one I bought. It seems to work well.

Gay, I’m glad that you have an eye out for a used easel. Idea would be to check with different art associations and colleges/universities. Also, art societies may have newsletters that may have things for sale. And what about putting out a request on Craigslist? Or a local equivalent? I know you’ll find one!!

Thanks for sharing your experiences with easels Maria. It’s tricky finding what works best and which easel will fit our space and budget. I would hope you could find a standing easel that you can leave up. A small plein air easel might do the trick! And yes to a contraption to hold the tablet. I recently got one (recommended by Richard McKinley) and it works like a dream. It attaches to your board. It doesn’t appear to be available any longer but click here to see a comparable one! They aren’t expensive and make a world of difference!!

Hi Beth, thanks for your question! It’s so difficult at times to find a place of our own to paint. It’s especially great when we have a space where we can leave work and supplies out, and not have to put them away at the end of each painting session.

An unfinished basement sounds like a place of promise and possibility. Is there are least drywall or a finish (ie not just studs and covered insulation)? If so, I would paint the place a bright white so that any light will be reflected around the room. I would also surround yourself with anything that brings you joy – a rug, flowers, books, a comfy chair. It’s great to make the space yours, a place you want to be. I’d say create a studio sanctuary!

As to lighting, I’m not sure what electrical you have set up. If you can add overhead daylight tube lighting, that would be great. In an earlier studio, I had a daylight bulb light set up that I could plug in. I couldn’t have painted without it! Maybe others will have some ideas for you 😁