DIY Kids' Art Easel: Build a Creative Drawing Board 2026

Encourage your children's natural urge to draw and color freely by building a DIY chalkboard that offers an inclined surface for their artistic expressions. This project includes a handy shelf and a pencil holder basket.

For this project, we took inspiration from the Norman Copenhagen easel.

Faced with a blank sheet of paper, kids at home quickly reveal their artistic flair, first with scribbles that, over time, become houses, suns, trees, and people. Our job is to make this activity feel important and rewarding: let's highlight the creative moment by providing tools and accessories that stimulate them!

This very simple DIY easel can be closed up to take up very little space. It opens by moving the central leg until the chain is taut: at that point, the three wide feet provide stability to the whole structure (it's best if the bottom ends are beveled so the full thickness of the board rests on the floor).

The DIY easel comes with two very important accessories: the shelf that serves as a base for the board where the paper rests (ideal for temporarily holding a color you're not using or an eraser) and the container, hooked or fixed with two screws to the top end of a side leg, for storing all the pencils, chalk, and markers.

The color of the whole piece must be very vibrant, given who it's for. Make sure to use non-toxic paints and apply them to a well-sanded surface so there are no splinters or rough spots where the child could get hurt.

What You Need to Build a DIY Kids' Easel

• 15 mm thick plywood panel
• Aluminum tube Ø 8 mm
• Chain
• Wood screws
• 1 piece of baseboard rod
• Acrylic enamel paint

DIY Easel Project Plan

The measurements can be derived proportionally from the drawing, keeping in mind the height of the child for whom the easel is intended. To make this project even easier, consider browsing our home improvement collection for essential tools and materials. You can also find the perfect work surface to assemble the pieces, and a comfortable chair for yourself while you work.

Step-by-Step Assembly

The Plywood Legs

Start by cutting the plywood for the legs according to your plan. Sand all edges thoroughly to ensure they are smooth and safe for children.

How to Assemble the Easel Legs

Attach the central leg to the side legs using the aluminum tube as a pivot point. Ensure the movement is smooth so the easel can fold and unfold easily. For a sturdy build, check out our garden supplies for durable hardware options that work well for indoor projects too.

Chain and Board Surface

Attach the chain between the side legs and the central leg to limit the opening angle. Then, fix the main board surface to the frame. Paint everything with non-toxic acrylic enamel in a bright, fun color. To keep your workspace organized, a storage bench is great for holding supplies, and a rug can protect the floor from paint drips.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What type of paint is safe for a children's easel?

Always use non-toxic, water-based acrylic enamel paints. Make sure to check the label to confirm it's safe for children's furniture and toys.

Can I adjust the height of this DIY easel?

Yes, you can easily modify the leg lengths in your project plan to suit your child's height. For a dedicated workspace, consider adding a desk nearby for their art supplies.

How do I clean the chalkboard surface?

Use a soft, dry cloth or a chalkboard eraser. For deeper cleaning, a damp cloth with a little water works well, but let it dry completely before the next use.

What accessories can I add to this easel?

You can attach a pencil holder basket as described, or add a clip at the top to hold paper securely. A lighting solution like a small clip-on lamp can also help illuminate their artwork.

Where can I find more ideas for kids' room furniture?

Explore our collections for inspiration, including wall decor to brighten their room, curtains for a playful touch, and beds for a complete room makeover.

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Discover unique craftsmanship home decor and furniture at the Grand Goldman Shop.

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