Finding engaging, screen-free activities that nurture a child's development can feel like a constant search. A kids art easel is a classic solution, providing a dedicated space for drawing, painting and learning that can grow with your child. However, with so many options available, choosing the right one can be confusing.
As the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you navigate the market. This guide offers practical advice on what to look for in a children's art easel and presents some carefully selected options to help you make an informed choice for your budding artist.
Before you buy, thinking about a few key features will ensure you find an easel that meets your family's needs for years to come.
To get the most value, look for versatility. A double sided art easel often features a traditional blackboard on one side and a magnetic whiteboard on the other. This allows for different creative activities, from chalk drawings to practising letters with magnetic tiles. Many models also include a kids easel with paper roll holder at the top, offering a limitless canvas for painting and crayon masterpieces. A 3 in 1 kids easel combines all these features, providing a comprehensive creative station.
Safety is paramount, especially with items for young children. A wooden art easel for children, often made from materials like pine, provides a sturdy and stable A-frame structure that can withstand enthusiastic use. When purchasing, always check that the product complies with UK safety standards, such as EN71, which ensures it is free from harmful materials and has been tested for safety. This is particularly important when selecting a toddler art easel, which should have rounded edges and a low, stable centre of gravity.
Art can be a messy business. A kids drawing board with storage is a feature many parents appreciate. Look for easels with built-in trays, fabric baskets or shelves. These additions are invaluable for keeping chalk, markers, paint pots and brushes organised and within easy reach, helping to contain the creative chaos and teach children to tidy up after themselves.
Here are our recommendations, focusing on functionality, design and creative potential.
Why It Stands Out: This AIYAPLAY model is a fantastic all-in-one creative hub. It combines a blackboard, a whiteboard and a paper roll, offering multiple ways for a child to express themselves. The solid pine wood and MDF construction ensures it is robust, while the two large storage baskets below are perfect for keeping art supplies neat and accessible.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is an ideal choice for parents seeking a complete, long-lasting creative station. Its multi-functional design and integrated storage make it a practical and engaging addition to a playroom or bedroom for children aged 3 to 8.
An easel is just the beginning. To bring it to life, you'll need some quality art supplies. Here are a couple of options to consider.
Why It Stands Out: For older children with a specific interest in anime and manga, this set provides a structured introduction to the art form. It moves beyond simple doodling and offers the tools and guidance needed to learn specific drawing techniques.
Pros:
Who is it for? This set is best suited for children aged 8 and over who are ready for a more advanced artistic challenge and want to develop their skills in a popular and modern art style.
Why It Stands Out: This watercolour set is a brilliant starting point for young painters. The key feature is its washable formula, which gives parents peace of mind during messy creative sessions. The solid paint cakes are easy for little hands to use and help reduce waste compared to liquid paints.
Pros:
Who is it for? Perfect for toddlers and young children (3+ years) as a first paint set. Its ease of use and simple clean-up make it an excellent companion for any kids art easel.
If an easel isn't quite what you're looking for, or if you want to explore other ways to spark your child's imagination, there are many other creative toys available. From modelling clay to comprehensive craft kits, finding the right fit is key.
Browse our full collection of childrens drawing toys to discover more ways to inspire your little artist.
Most art easels are designed for children aged 3 to 8 years. For younger children, a toddler art easel is often shorter, more robust and may have simpler features. Always check the manufacturer's recommended age range to ensure the height and components are appropriate for your child.
A double sided art easel offers great value and flexibility. It allows two children to create at the same time, which is perfect for siblings or playdates. It also provides different surfaces—typically a blackboard for chalk and a whiteboard for dry-erase markers—which encourages a child to experiment with various art materials.
When selecting a wooden art easel for children, prioritise stability and safety. Look for models made from solid wood like pine with a sturdy A-frame design to prevent tipping. Ensure the product explicitly states compliance with UK safety standards, such as EN71 and check for smooth, rounded edges to prevent scrapes.