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Best Art Easels for Kids of 2025

Updated
Find the ideal art easel for your kids.
Art supplies can turn into a disorganized mess fast. If you are tired of finding crayons under the couch or markers on the dining table, a dedicated art easel is the solution you need.

But picking the right one isn’t easy. You have to consider height, storage, stability, and just how much floor space you are willing to sacrifice.

We analyzed the market to find the best art easels for kids. We looked for durable frames, easy-to-clean surfaces, and setups that grow with your child. Whether you need a full creative studio or a portable tabletop option, we have found a match for your little artist.

Here is how to choose the perfect canvas for your child’s imagination.

Our Top Picks

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Best Complete Art Studio: Step2 Deluxe Art Desk
  • Comes with valuable storage space
  • Large work surface
  • Includes a push-button light
Best Wooden Easel: Hape Wooden Art Easel
  • Multi-purpose
  • Easy to assemble
  • High quality and durable
Perfect for Play Dates: Step2 Easel for Two
  • Lightweight but sturdy
  • Folds easily for storage
  • Brightly colored and attractive
Best for Minimalists: Crayola Art Studio Kids
  • Brightly colored desk inspires creativity
  • Compact design
  • Award-winning product
Best in Versatility: Discovery Kids Easel
  • Collapsible design
  • Occupies minimal space
  • Great option for travel
Best for Toddlers: Step2 Flip & Doodle Desk
  • Transforms into a desk
  • Extra storage space
  • Sturdy and durable
Best Educational Easel: Elk & Bear Easel
  • No assembly required
  • Lifetime guarantee
  • Dual sides so two can play at once
Best for Travel: Faber-Castell Travel Easel
  • Complete set
  • 37-piece art easel
  • Eco-friendly products
Best for Brand Reliability: Melissa & Doug Easel
  • Multi-purpose tool
  • Height adjustable
  • Trusted brand with excellent customer service

How to Choose an Easel for Kids

Before you buy, think about how your child actually plays. Here are the main factors to consider:

  • Standing vs. sitting: Does your child like to stand and move while painting? A classic standing easel burns energy. If they prefer focusing on detailed drawings, a sit-down desk style is better.
  • Storage capacity: Where will the paint pots and chalk go? Look for easels with deep trays, bins, or shelves. If the easel lacks storage, you will need a separate cart nearby.
  • Floor footprint: Easels can be bulky. Measure your playroom first. If space is tight, look for a folding model or a tabletop version that tucks away easily.
  • Surface options: Double-sided easels are great for siblings. Look for combinations of chalkboards, magnetic whiteboards, and paper roll holders to keep things interesting.

Reasons to Buy an Art Easel for Kids

Saving your walls from accidental murals is a great reason to buy an easel. However, the benefits go deeper than just containment.

Encourages Creativity

An easel is a dedicated “yes” space. It invites children to create freely without worrying about making a mess on “nice” furniture.

This freedom allows them to organize their thoughts and visualize their ideas. Whether they are drawing a family portrait or abstract shapes, they are building confidence in their own abilities.

Enhances Hand-Eye Coordination

Vertical surfaces change the game for coordination. Painting on an upright canvas requires a different kind of focus than drawing on a flat table.

Children learn to guide their hands to match what their eyes see. This skill is crucial for everything from catching a ball to tying shoelaces later in life.

Enhances Development of Fine Motor Skills

Working on a vertical surface strengthens the wrist and shoulder muscles. This is essential for writing development.

Gripping a chunky paintbrush, holding a thin marker, or peeling a sticker off a sheet all refine fine motor skills (1). An easel provides a fun gym for those little hand muscles.

Encourages Expression

Art is a nonverbal language. It allows kids to process their day, express frustrations, or share joy.

Valuing their art makes them feel seen and loved (2). An easel gives their voice a permanent place in your home, even if that voice is just a very enthusiastic finger painting.


Product Reviews

We’ve tested, reviewed, and compared the top options to help you find the perfect creative station.

Deluxe Art Desk by Step2

Best Complete Art Studio for Kids

This isn’t just an easel; it is a full-blown command center for creativity. If you have the floor space, the Step2 Deluxe Art Desk is a fantastic choice because it combines a desk, storage, and display area into one unit.

The large dry-erase board lifts up to reveal storage underneath, perfect for hiding away clutter. We love the vertical bins on the sides, which are great for holding coloring books and larger pads. There is also a push-button light over the desk area. It’s a fun novelty that actually helps kids see their work better.

It comes with a sturdy matching chair, so your child can sit comfortably for longer sessions. It’s durable, easy to wipe down, and keeps supplies organized.

Pros

  • Massive amount of storage keeps supplies off the floor.
  • Includes a working overhead light.
  • Sturdy construction handles rough play.
  • Doubles as a desk for homework or snacks.

Cons

  • Assembly can be tricky and takes time.
  • It takes up a significant amount of room space.

Product Specs

Dimensions (inches) 31.25 (H) x 35.50 (W) x 20.25 (D)
Product Weight 23 pounds
Chair’s weight capacity 75 pounds
Country of Manufacture U.S., some parts are imported
Material type Plastic

Our Ratings

Adjustability
1 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Included Accessories
2 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
3 / 5

Hape Wooden Kids Art Easel

Best Wooden Easel

If you prefer classic wooden toys over bright plastic, the Hape All-in-1 is a winner. It balances aesthetics with functionality perfectly.

One side features a magnetic whiteboard, while the other is a chalkboard. This lets two kids play at once without fighting for space. The integrated paper roll holder at the top is a huge plus, as it keeps the paper secure while your child paints.

The height is adjustable, which is vital if you want the easel to last from the toddler years through kindergarten. It comes with three paint pots that fit securely into the shelf, minimizing the risk of spills.

Pros

  • Adjustable height grows with your child.
  • Includes spill-proof paint pots.
  • Magnetic side adds extra play value.
  • Paper roll holder is built-in and easy to load.

Cons

  • Only fits Hape-specific paper rolls easily.
  • Paint pots are on the small side.

Product Specs

Dimensions (inches) 16 (L) x 19 (W) x 43.5 (H)
Product Weight 12.13 pounds
Country of Manufacture China
Material type Wood and water-based paint

Our Ratings

Adjustability
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Included Accessories
3.5 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Step2 Art Easel for Two

Perfect for Play Dates

This easel is designed for social play. With a chalkboard on one side and a magnetic dry-erase board on the other, two children can create masterpieces simultaneously.

The real selling point here is the accessories. It comes with 94 soft foam magnets, including letters, numbers, and symbols. This instantly turns art time into a learning session for spelling or math without it feeling like schoolwork.

The large clip at the top holds paper firmly in place for painting. While assembly requires a screwdriver and a little elbow grease, the result is a lightweight yet stable easel that is easy to move around the house.

Pros

  • Includes a huge set of foam magnets.
  • Folds flat for easier storage.
  • Paper clip is strong and holds artwork well.
  • Middle tray is accessible from both sides.

Cons

  • Side trays can be flimsy and knock off easily.
  • Tools required for assembly are not included.

Product Specs

Dimensions (inches) 41.50 (H) x 22.20 (W) x 20.00 (D)
Product Weight 9.75 pounds
Country of Manufacture U.S., some parts are imported
Material type Plastic

Our Ratings

Adjustability
2.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Included Accessories
4 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Crayola Triple-the-Fun Art Studio

Best Choice for Minimalists

Not everyone has space for a sprawling art station. The Crayola Triple-the-Fun Art Studio is a smart hybrid that converts from an easel to a desk.

When upright, it’s a standard easel with clips for paper. Fold it down, and it becomes a sturdy desk for writing or coloring. This versatility is great for smaller bedrooms where you need one piece of furniture to do double duty.

It features large clips to hold paper and elevated storage for markers and crayons. The included stool is basic but functional. It’s a solid choice for toddlers and preschoolers just starting their artistic journey.

Pros

  • Converts from easel to desk instantly.
  • Compact footprint fits small rooms.
  • Bright, engaging colors.
  • Surface wipes clean easily.

Cons

  • Does not adjust in height for taller kids.
  • Plastic feels lighter than some competitors.

Product Specs

Dimensions (inches) 18.3 (L) x 17.7 (W) x 32.9 (H)
Product Weight 7.68 pounds
Chair weight capacity 23 pounds
Country of Manufacture Unknown
Material type Plastic

Our Ratings

Adjustability
1.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Included Accessories
2.5 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
4 / 5
Total Rating
3 / 5

Discovery Kids 3-in-1 Desktop Easel

Best in Versatility

If you lack floor space entirely, look to your tabletops. The Discovery Kids 3-in-1 is a portable solution that sets up on your kitchen island, dining table, or floor.

It features a chalkboard on one side, a dry-erase board on the other, and a paper roll holder on top. It offers the same functionality as a large standing easel but folds down to a fraction of the size for storage.

This is ideal for families who live in apartments or want an easel they can pack in the car for trips to grandma’s house. The solid wood construction gives it a nice weight, though you’ll want to ensure it’s on a non-slip surface during enthusiastic coloring.

Pros

  • Extremely portable and folds flat.
  • Great for small apartments.
  • Includes paper roll and oversized clip.
  • No assembly required.

Cons

  • Can slide or tip if not placed on a stable surface.
  • Smaller drawing surface than standing models.

Product Specs

Dimensions (inches) 17 (L) x 15 (W) x 19 (H)
Product Weight 7.6 pounds
Country of Manufacture Unknown
Material type Wood frame

Our Ratings

Adjustability
3 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Included Accessories
3 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Step2 Flip and Doodle Desk

Best for Toddlers

The Step2 Flip and Doodle Desk is designed to contain the chaos. It functions primarily as a desk with a large workspace, but the magnetic dry-erase board flips up when your child wants to stand and draw.

Storage is the headline feature here. It has bins, molded trays, and a rear storage area for books and paper. If you struggle with organizing art supplies, this desk does the heavy lifting for you.

The included stool is stable for wobbly toddlers. Because it is made of molded plastic, it is virtually indestructible and wipes clean in seconds, even after messy paint sessions.

Pros

  • Incredible amount of built-in storage.
  • Dual function as a desk and an easel.
  • Very easy to clean.
  • Includes a matching stool.

Cons

  • Bulky unit that does not fold down.
  • Design is best suited for younger toddlers, not older kids.

Product Specs

Dimensions (inches) 26 (H) x 23.75 (W) x 29.00 (D)
Product Weight 18 pounds
Chair weight capacity 75 pounds
Country of Manufacture U.S., some parts are imported
Material type Plastic

Our Ratings

Adjustability
1.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Included Accessories
3 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
4 / 5
Total Rating
3 / 5

Art Easel Elk & Bear Easel

Best Educational Easel

The Elk & Bear easel is a solid, ready-to-go option that skips the headache of assembly. It comes out of the box practically ready for playtime.

It features the standard double-sided setup with a chalkboard and a magnetic whiteboard. The frame is wood, giving it a sturdier feel than some plastic competitors. We appreciate the large storage tray underneath, which is deep enough to hold paint cups without them tipping over easily.

It comes loaded with accessories, including magnetic numbers and letters, making it a great gift set. It’s an excellent middle-ground option that offers quality materials without a massive price tag.

Pros

  • No complex assembly needed.
  • Comes with a generous accessory kit.
  • Sturdy wooden frame.
  • Deep storage tray prevents spills.

Cons

  • Some users report the magnets are small (choking hazard for very young kids).

Product Specs

Dimensions (inches) 29.9 (L) x 2.2 (W) x 17.9 (H)
Product Weight 7.72 pounds
Country of Manufacture Unknown
Material type Wood

Our Ratings

Adjustability
2.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Included Accessories
4 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Faber-Castell Travel Easel Set

Best for Travel

Road trips and restaurant waits just got easier. The Faber-Castell Travel Easel Set is a briefcase of creativity.

Everything packs neatly inside the case, which features a handle for little hands to carry. When opened, it functions as a lap desk or stands up as a tabletop easel. It’s compact, lightweight, and specifically designed for travel.

The set includes high-quality Faber-Castell supplies like beeswax crayons, markers, and colored pencils. This isn’t just a plastic toy; it’s a legitimate art kit for on-the-go sketching. It is best for kids aged 4 and up who can manage the latch and smaller supplies.

Pros

  • Perfect for cars, planes, and restaurants.
  • Includes high-quality art supplies.
  • Keeps everything contained in one case.
  • Encourages art anywhere.

Cons

  • Latches can be tricky for younger toddlers.
  • Small parts are not safe for kids under 4.

Product Specs

Dimensions (inches) 13 (H) x 14 (W) x 2.5 (D)
Product Weight 3.5 pounds
Country of Manufacture Germany
Material type Eco-friendly wood

Our Ratings

Adjustability
2 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Included Accessories
5 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Melissa & Doug Wooden Standing Easel

Best for Brand Reliability

Melissa & Doug is practically synonymous with quality wooden toys, and their standing easel is a classic for a reason. It is robust, simple, and gets the job done.

It features a dry-erase board, a chalkboard, and a locking paper-roll holder. The height is adjustable, so you can raise it as your child grows taller. The plastic trays are removable, which makes cleaning up paint spills significantly easier, just pop them out and rinse them in the sink.

It folds flat for storage, though it is quite large even when folded. Note that while it’s a great frame, you usually have to buy the paper roll and paint accessories separately.

Pros

  • Removable trays make cleaning easy.
  • Sturdy clips hold paper securely.
  • Adjustable height settings.
  • Folds flat to save space.

Cons

  • Chalkboard often requires “seasoning” to work well.
  • Paper roll and paint cups are often sold separately.

Product Specs

Dimensions (inches) 47 (H) x 27 (W) x 26 (L)
Product Weight 19.2 pounds
Country of Manufacture China
Material type Wood

Product Comparison Chart

Product Award Dimensions Weight Manufacturer Material
Step2 Art Desk Best Complete Art Studio 31.25″ x 35.50″ x 20.25″ 23 lbs U.S. Plastic
Hape Wooden Easel Best Wooden Easel 16″ x 19″ x 43.5″ 12.13 lbs China Wood
Step2 Easel for Two Perfect For Play Dates 41.50″ x 22.20″ x 20.00″ 9.75 lbs U.S. Plastic
Crayola Art Studio Kids Best For Minimalists 18.3″ x 17.7″ x 32.9″ 7.68 lbs N/A Plastic
Discovery Kids Best In Versatility 17″x 15″ x 19″ 7.6 lbs N/A Wood
Step2 Flip & Doodle Best For Toddlers Doodle 26″ x 23.75″ x 29.00″ 18 lbs U.S. Plastic
Elk & Bear Ease Best Educational Easel 29.9″ x 2.2″ x 17.9″ 7.72 lbs N/A Wood
Faber-Castell Best For Travel 13″ x 14″ x 2.5″ 3.5 lbs Germany Wood
Melissa & Doug Best For Brand Reliability 47″ x 27″ x 26″ 19.2 lbs China Wood

FAQs

What Do Children Learn From Easel Painting?

Easel painting teaches children fine motor skills, creativity, and color recognition. It also enhances their confidence and decision-making capabilities as they visualize and execute their ideas on a vertical surface.

What is the Best Paper For Kids to Paint On?

Heavyweight, absorbent paper like butcher paper or specific watercolor paper is best. It prevents paint from soaking through and tearing the sheet, which is common with standard printer paper.

What Size Easel is Good For Kids?

A kid-sized easel usually stands between 36 and 48 inches tall. The best options are adjustable, allowing you to raise the height as your child grows to ensure comfortable ergonomics.

What is the Best Age For an Art Easel?

Children can start using an art easel around two to three years old. At this age, they are stable on their feet and eager to explore large arm movements through painting and drawing.

How Do I Clean a Chalkboard Easel?

To clean a chalkboard properly, wipe it down with a damp cloth or a felt eraser. If “ghosting” (old chalk marks) remains, use a mixture of water and vinegar to restore the black surface.

Are Magnetic Easels Safe for Toddlers?

Yes, magnetic easels are generally safe, but you must monitor the magnets themselves. Ensure the magnets are large enough not to be a choking hazard and that the magnetic backing is securely enclosed.


In Conclusion

An easel is more than just a toy; it is a dedicated space for your child to experiment, fail, and create something beautiful. Whether you choose a high-tech desk or a classic wooden frame, you are giving them the tools to express themselves.

So, grab some smocks, stock up on washable paint, and get ready for a masterpiece gallery on your fridge.

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Headshot of Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC

Reviewed by

Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC

Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC is a cardiology nurse and freelance medical writer. Katelyn has 8 years of nursing experience inpatient and outpatient, primarily medical-surgical and cardiac. After having two children she has a passion for Women’s Health and Lactation teaching and support.