From Italian craftsmanship to artist-trusted durability, Mabef easels represent the gold standard in easels. In this guide, we’ll explore Mabef’s legacy, best easel models, artist endorsements, care tips, and where to buy them in the UK.
Table of Contents
- A Brief History of Mabef
- Why Artists Choose Mabef
- Popular Mabef Easel Models
- Which Easel is Right for You?
- Famous Artists Who Use Mabef
- Where to Buy Mabef Easels in the UK
- Caring for Your Easel
- Final Thoughts
A Brief History of Mabef
Mabef began in 1948 in Italy, when Mario Bassi founded a small family-run business that now supplies quality easels globally. Their handmade beechwood designs and environmental practices have earned them worldwide respect. For a full history, visit this Mabef timeline.
Why Artists Choose Mabef
Artists favour Mabef easels for their adjustability, smooth crank systems, and long-lasting wooden construction. They’re suitable for oil, watercolour, and mixed media artists alike—especially when paired with the right oil paints and surfaces.
Popular Mabef Easel Models
- M/09 Convertible Easel – Ideal for switching between vertical and flat positions, perfect for both oil and watercolour artists.
- M/18 Studio Easel – Sturdy and height-adjustable, providing excellent stability for large canvases in studio settings.
- M/22 Field Easel – Lightweight and compact, perfect for outdoor painting or plein air artists looking for portability.
- M/29 Giant Easel – Designed for ambitious canvases and studio professionals who require exceptional stability and ease of use.
Which Easel is Right for You?
Your perfect easel depends on your space and workflow. Consider your specific needs:
- Home or Tabletop Studio: M/13 Table Easel, perfect for smaller spaces and casual painting.
- Outdoor Painting: M/22 Field Easel, compact and easy to carry while maintaining the stability needed for plein air work.
- Multi-medium Flexibility: M/09 Convertible Easel, versatile and adaptable to various painting techniques.
- Large Canvases: M/29 Giant Easel, providing the robustness and support required for massive artwork projects.
Famous Artists Who Use Mabef
Many renowned creators trust Mabef easels for their quality and craftsmanship. Artists like Will Kemp and Lena Danya favour the brand, appreciating the durability and functionality that makes Mabef the preferred choice for professionals. These easels are also frequently seen in university classrooms and art schools across the UK. They offer a solid foundation for students and pros alike. Don’t forget your essentials like canvas deals, frames, and paints to go with your easel setup.
Where to Buy Mabef Easels in the UK
- Art Discount Mabef Easels Collection
- Jackson’s Art Mabef Category
- Cass Art Mabef Offering
- Great Art Mabef Collection
- London Graphic Centre Mabef Range
- The Art Shop Skipton Mabef Range
Want more UK art advice? Check out Manchester’s top 7 art shops.
Caring for Your Easel
- Dust regularly with a soft cloth to maintain the wood’s natural finish.
- Use wood oil once a year to nourish and protect the wood, especially if the easel is used frequently.
- Store your easel in a dry, stable environment, away from extreme temperature or humidity.
- Tighten moving parts periodically to avoid wobble and ensure smooth operation.
Final Thoughts
A Mabef easel is more than just a stand—it’s a long-term companion in your creative life. Pair it with the best watercolours, premium oils, and high-quality canvases to set up a studio that inspires for years to come.
If you have deals, tips, or stories to share with fellow artists, submit them here and help others get set up with the tools they need.
