Lakeshore Learning Heavy-Duty Hardwood Easel: A Parent's Review

For parents seeking a durable and reliable art easel for their children, the Lakeshore Heavy-Duty Hardwood Easel emerges as a strong contender. This review delves into the features, benefits, and practical considerations of this easel based on user experiences and expert insights.

The Quest for a Sturdy Easel

The journey to finding the right art easel often begins with the desire for stability and longevity. Many parents, after extensive research and reading numerous online reviews, opt for wooden easels due to their inherent sturdiness. One such parent, after scouring posts on easels, decided to purchase an easel from Lakeshore Learning, specifically the Lakeshore Heavy-Duty Hardwood Easel.

First Impressions and Durability

The initial impression of the Lakeshore Heavy-Duty Hardwood Easel is generally positive. Parents often report satisfaction with its robust construction and overall quality. After using the easel for a few days, the aforementioned parent expressed delight with its performance, highlighting its sturdiness as a key selling point. The selection of a very sturdy wood easel ensures that it can withstand the energetic artistic endeavors of young children.

Addressing Common Concerns: Markers, Paper, and Brushes

While the easel itself receives high praise, parents often have practical questions regarding the best art supplies to use with it. Common queries revolve around the appropriate markers for the whiteboard surface, the ideal paper for painting, and the selection of suitable brushes.

Markers for the Whiteboard

Choosing the right markers for the whiteboard side of the easel is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable drawing experience. Dry-erase markers are the standard choice for whiteboards, but selecting a high-quality brand can make a significant difference. Look for markers that offer vibrant colors, easy erasability, and minimal ghosting (residual ink left behind after erasing). Some popular options include Expo Low-Odor Dry Erase Markers and Quartet EnduraGlide Dry Erase Markers. Experimenting with different brands can help determine which ones work best and provide the desired results.

Paper for Painting

The type of paper used for painting significantly impacts the final artwork, especially when children tend to apply paint thickly. Standard printer paper is often too thin and prone to buckling or tearing. Fingerpaint paper, specifically designed to withstand wet media, is a better option. The parent in question had tried a couple of brands of fingerpaint paper and some paper from Lakeshore, suggesting that Lakeshore offers paper specifically designed for use with their easels.

For heavier applications of paint, consider using watercolor paper or mixed media paper. These papers are thicker and more absorbent, preventing the paint from bleeding through and ensuring that the paper stays relatively smooth.

Here's a breakdown of paper options:

Fingerpaint Paper: A good starting point, designed for wet media but may not withstand very thick applications.
Watercolor Paper: Offers excellent absorbency and durability, ideal for watercolor paints and heavier applications of other paints. Available in different weights (thicknesses); a heavier weight is generally better for preventing buckling.
Mixed Media Paper: A versatile option that can handle various art mediums, including paints, markers, and crayons. Look for acid-free paper to ensure the longevity of the artwork.
Easel Paper Roll: Many easels, including the Lakeshore model, are designed to hold a roll of paper. This provides a continuous surface for creating large-scale artworks and minimizes the need to constantly replace individual sheets.

Brushes

The selection of brushes depends on the type of paint being used and the desired effect. For general painting with children, a variety of brush sizes and shapes is recommended. This allows them to experiment with different techniques and create diverse textures.

Consider the following factors when choosing brushes:

Read also: Assembling Lakeshore Cubbies

Bristle Type: Natural bristles (e.g., hog bristle) are ideal for oil paints, while synthetic bristles (e.g., nylon or taklon) are better suited for acrylic and watercolor paints.
Brush Shape: Round brushes are versatile and can be used for detail work and filling in small areas. Flat brushes are good for creating broad strokes and blending colors. Angle brushes are useful for painting corners and edges.
Handle Length: Short-handled brushes are generally easier for children to control.
Durability: Look for brushes that are well-constructed and can withstand repeated use and cleaning.

Additional Considerations

Beyond the core aspects of markers, paper, and brushes, several other factors can enhance the overall experience with the Lakeshore Heavy-Duty Hardwood Easel.

Easel Height and Adjustability

The height of the easel should be appropriate for the child's height to ensure comfortable use. Some easels offer adjustable height settings, allowing them to grow with the child.

Storage Options

Many easels come with built-in storage trays or shelves for holding art supplies. This helps keep the workspace organized and ensures that materials are readily accessible.

Safety Features

Look for easels with rounded edges and non-toxic finishes to ensure the safety of young children. Sturdy construction is also essential to prevent the easel from tipping over.

Double-Sided Functionality

The Lakeshore Heavy-Duty Hardwood Easel features a double-sided design, with a whiteboard on one side and a chalkboard on the other. This provides versatility and allows children to explore different art mediums.

Easel Accessories

Consider purchasing additional accessories, such as paint cups, brush holders, and paper roll holders, to further enhance the functionality of the easel.

Benefits of Using an Easel

Investing in an art easel offers numerous benefits for children's development.

Encourages Creativity and Self-Expression

An easel provides a dedicated space for children to explore their creativity and express themselves through art. It fosters imagination, experimentation, and problem-solving skills.

Develops Fine Motor Skills

Painting and drawing on an easel help children develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and dexterity.

Improves Posture and Physical Development

Using an easel encourages proper posture and allows children to stand while creating art, promoting physical development.

Provides a Sense of Ownership

Having their own art easel gives children a sense of ownership and pride in their creations. It encourages them to take care of their materials and develop a sense of responsibility.

Fosters a Love of Art

By providing a dedicated space for art-making, an easel can foster a lifelong love of art and creativity.

Maintaining the Easel

Proper maintenance is essential to prolong the life of the Lakeshore Heavy-Duty Hardwood Easel.

Cleaning the Whiteboard

Use a whiteboard cleaner or a damp cloth to regularly clean the whiteboard surface. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the surface.

Cleaning the Chalkboard

Use a chalkboard eraser to remove chalk dust from the chalkboard surface. Occasionally, wash the chalkboard with a damp cloth and mild soap.

Protecting the Wood Finish

Wipe down the wood frame with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the finish.

Storing the Easel

When not in use, store the easel in a dry, protected area. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity, as this can damage the wood.

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