Eco Friendly Easels That Support Your Art and the Planet
The US Art Supply Bamboo H Frame Easel is our top pick for most artists. It is made from fast growing bamboo, a highly renewable resource. Its sturdy A frame design holds canvases up to 60 inches. The main limitation is that the bamboo surface may show minor scratches with heavy use.
Artists today want tools that reflect their values. Eco friendly easels use renewable materials like bamboo, recycled aluminum, or FSC certified wood. They reduce environmental impact without sacrificing functionality.
Whether you paint in a studio or outdoors, there is a sustainable easel for you. This guide covers tabletop, floor, and plein air models. We focus on real products available now on Amazon.
What matters most
What we recommend
US Art Supply Bamboo H Frame Easel
A sturdy studio easel crafted from 100% bamboo. It features a unique H frame design that provides extra stability. The adjustable canvas holder accommodates canvases up to 60 inches tall. Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource, making this an excellent green choice.
Pros
- Very sturdy, holds heavy canvases
- Bamboo is highly renewable
- Easy to assemble with tools included
Cons
- Bamboo surface can dent if over tightened
- Heavier than aluminum easels at 12 pounds
MEEDEN Bamboo Tabletop Easel
A compact tabletop easel made from natural bamboo. It is perfect for small spaces and travel. The adjustable top clamp holds canvas up to 23.6 inches. Its lightweight design makes it easy to move around.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Great for small canvases and desk use
- Affordable eco friendly option
Cons
- Not for large canvases
- Clamp may not hold very thick panels
HearthSong All Wood Artist Easel
A durable wooden easel made from sustainably harvested rubberwood. It is designed for children and budding artists. It includes a chalkboard and dry erase board. The height adjusts to grow with your child.
Pros
- Converts to a desk
- Stable and well built
- Encourages creativity in kids
Cons
- Not suitable for professional use
- Assembly requires some time
Prolet diy French Box Easel
A French box easel made from FSC certified European beech wood. It folds into a compact box with a built in storage drawer. This easel is ideal for outdoor painting. The wood is finished with natural oils.
Pros
- Includes a storage drawer for supplies
- Sturdy tripod legs for uneven ground
- Natural oil finish is safe and eco friendly
Cons
- Heavier than aluminum travel easels
- Setup takes a few minutes
US Art Supply Bamboo Convertible Tabletop Easel
A bamboo easel that converts from a tabletop easel to a display stand. It works for painting, sketching, or holding signs. The adjustable back leg changes the angle. Its compact size fits on any desk.
Pros
- Can be used as a display stand
- Folds flat for storage
- Great for small workspaces
Cons
- Not as stable for heavy canvases
- Limited height adjustment
RE:PIECE Recycled Aluminum Display Easel
A sleek easel made from 100% recycled aluminum. It is lightweight yet strong. This floor easel has a minimalist design that fits modern interiors. The height adjusts from 48 to 72 inches.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Rust resistant for outdoor use
- Modern aesthetic
Cons
- Only supports smaller canvases
- No shelf for paints or brushes
MABEF Studio Easel M/28 (FSC Certified Beech)
A professional studio easel from a renowned Italian brand. It is made from FSC certified beech wood. This easel is extremely stable and holds canvases up to 88 inches. The ratchet mechanism allows quick height adjustments.
Pros
- Studio grade stability
- Smooth ratchet adjustment
- Built to last for decades
Cons
- Very expensive
- Heavy and not portable
Side by side
| # | Model | Material | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | US Art Supply Bamboo H Frame Easel | Bamboo | Best Overall Eco Friendly Easel | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | MEEDEN Bamboo Tabletop Easel | Bamboo | Best Tabletop Eco Friendly Easel | 8.8 | Check price |
| 3 | HearthSong All Wood Artist Easel | Rubberwood (sustainable) | Best for Kids and Beginners | 8.5 | Check price |
| 4 | Prolet diy French Box Easel | FSC certified beech wood | Best for Plein Air Painting | 8.9 | Check price |
| 5 | US Art Supply Bamboo Convertible Tabletop Easel | Bamboo | Best Versatile Bamboo Easel | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | RE:PIECE Recycled Aluminum Display Easel | 100% recycled aluminum | Best Recycled Metal Easel | 8.3 | Check price |
| 7 | MABEF Studio Easel M/28 (FSC Certified Beech) | FSC certified beech wood | Best Professional Eco Friendly Easel | 9.2 | Check price |
Good to know
Are bamboo easels as sturdy as wood easels?
Yes, bamboo is naturally strong and dense. Many bamboo easels are very stable and can hold heavy canvases. However, they may show minor scratches more easily than hardwood.
What does FSC certified mean?
FSC stands for Forest Stewardship Council. It certifies that wood comes from forests managed in an environmentally responsible and socially beneficial way.
Can I use an eco friendly easel outdoors?
Yes, many are portable and suitable for plein air painting. Look for models with foldable legs and lightweight materials like bamboo or aluminum. Avoid leaving them in direct rain.
How do I know which size easel I need?
Measure the height of your canvas. Ensure the easel’s maximum canvas height is greater than your typical canvas. Also consider the footprint of the easel in your workspace.
Are there eco friendly easels for children?
Yes, some easels are made from sustainable wood and designed for kids. The HearthSong easel is a good example. They often include chalkboards or paper rolls.
How do I dispose of an old non eco friendly easel?
If the easel is still usable, consider donating it. If it is broken, check if the wood can be recycled or repurposed. Some communities accept wood waste for composting or mulching.
Are recycled aluminum easels good for heavy canvases?
Most recycled aluminum easels are lightweight and better suited for smaller canvases. They may not support very large or heavy works. Always check the weight capacity.
Do eco friendly easels cost more?
Prices vary. Bamboo and FSC wood easels are often comparable to traditional ones. Premium brands like MABEF cost more due to high quality and durability, but they last longer.
Can I adjust the angle of an eco friendly easel?
Many easels offer adjustable angles, especially tabletop models. Floor easels often have a ratchet mechanism. Check the product specifications for angle adjustment.
What is the best eco friendly easel for professional use?
The MABEF Studio Easel is a top professional choice due to its stability and high quality FSC beech wood. However, it is heavy and expensive. The US Art Supply Bamboo H Frame is a more affordable option.
Our pick
For most artists, the US Art Supply Bamboo H Frame Easel offers the best combination of eco friendliness, stability, and value. Its bamboo construction is renewable and it holds large canvases securely. If you need a portable option for outdoor painting, the Prolet DIY French Box Easel is our recommended choice, thanks to its FSC certified beech wood and built in storage. For professionals who want a lifetime easel, the MABEF Studio Easel is worth the investment.
