How to make a wooden DIY art display easel

How to Make a Wooden DIY Art Display Easel

Creating a DIY wooden easel is a great way to showcase your artwork, whether for personal use, professional displays, or exhibitions. A well-built easel is not only functional but also adds an aesthetic touch to any space. This guide will walk you through the process of making a sturdy and adjustable wooden display easel with simple tools and materials.

Materials and Tools Required

Materials:

• 3 wooden boards (1” x 2” x 72”) – For the legs
• 1 wooden board (1” x 2” x 24”) – For the top support
• 1 wooden board (1” x 3” x 24”) – For the canvas support
• 1 wooden board (1” x 2” x 36”) – For the rear leg
• 2 wooden dowels (3/8” thick, 4” long)
• 2 hinges (for rear leg attachment)
• 1 bolt with wingnut (for adjusting the rear leg)
• Wood screws (1.5”)
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper (120 and 220 grit)
• Wood stain or paint (optional)

Tools:

• Saw (hand saw or miter saw)
• Drill with bits
• Clamps
• Measuring tape
• Carpenter’s square
• Screwdriver
• Sanding block or power sander

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Wooden Easel

Step 1: Cutting the Wood Pieces

Using a saw, cut the wood pieces according to the required dimensions:

• Front legs: Two pieces of 1” x 2” x 72”
• Rear leg: One piece of 1” x 2” x 36”
• Top crossbar: One piece of 1” x 2” x 24”
• Canvas support shelf: One piece of 1” x 3” x 24”

Sand all pieces to smooth the edges and remove any splinters.

Step 2: Assembling the Front Frame

Lay the two front legs (72” pieces) parallel to each other, with a 24” gap at the top. Attach the top crossbar horizontally across the top using wood screws and glue. Ensure it is level and square using a carpenter’s square.

Step 3: Installing the Rear Leg

The rear leg provides stability to the easel and allows it to stand freely.

1. Position the rear leg (36” piece) at the center of the two front legs.
2. Attach the leg with two hinges at the top, ensuring it can pivot.
3. Drill a hole in the rear leg about halfway down (18” from the top).
4. Drill a corresponding hole in the middle of the front crossbar.
5. Insert a bolt with a wingnut, allowing the rear leg to adjust for different easel angles.

Step 4: Adding the Canvas Support Shelf

1. Take the 1” x 3” x 24” board and position it horizontally across the front legs about 30” from the bottom.
2. Secure it using wood screws and glue.
3. Optionally, drill a shallow groove along the shelf for extra canvas stability.

Step 5: Reinforcing the Structure

For added strength:

• Drill small pilot holes before inserting screws to prevent wood from splitting.
• Use wood glue in all joints before securing with screws.
• Insert wooden dowels for additional reinforcement at stress points.

Step 6: Sanding and Finishing

1. Smooth all surfaces using 120-grit sandpaper, followed by 220-grit for a polished finish.
2. Apply wood stain or paint if desired.
3. Allow the stain/paint to dry before assembling fully.

Final Assembly and Testing

• Open the easel and adjust the rear leg for the preferred angle.
• Place a canvas on the support shelf and check for stability.
• Make any final adjustments before using.

Now, you have a fully functional, handmade wooden easel ready to display your artwork beautifully!

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