TIPS: OPEN BOX M Pochade Easel REVIEW & Tour

PLEASE NOTE Dec 2022: Since making this video I've heard from various people saying they are experiencing long delays in getting their pochades from Open Box M. Even 6 months +, Communication can be slow too. Maybe get in contact with them before you order. Best wishes, Clare
The Open Box M. How I set it up - my adaptions and why it's my favourite pochade box! A tour of all the parts and great features of this plein air easel.
If you'd like to find the items in this video click the links below (I am not affiliated with any of these companies).
Let me know in the comments below what pochade you have and why you like it! Happy to answer any questions too.
Please support me by liking this video & subscribing to my Channel. Thank you :-)
(I am not affiliated with Open Box M.)
POCHADE BOX: Open Box M (from USA)
www.openboxm.com/store/p132/1...
PALETTE: Liteglaze Acrylic Sheet, B&Q www.diy.com/departments/liteg...
ACRYLIC PLASTIC CUTTING KNIFE: Plastic Scriber 2
www.amazon.co.uk/Tamiya-74091...
TRIPOD: Befree Manfrotto (mine is 6 years old this is the closest equivalent)
www.manfrotto.com/uk-en/befre...
QUICK RELEASE PLATE: Manfrotto
www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B...

[@irmaosmiegiene1418]

Thanks so much for the video Clare, it is very helpful with all the details and explanations.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

So pleased it's helpful, thank you Irma!

[@jennelira]

woww these are the essentials for painting! needed them all. thank you for sharing it to us❤

[@ClareBowenArtist]

🎨👩‍🎨

[@christianbond1561]

I’ve seen quite a few of your videos- always helpful and always well done!! Great explanations 😄👍

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Happy to hear that, Christian! Thank you!😊

[@grandpa_eric]

Wow!!, what a lot of easel options you have! Thank you for demonstrating the pochad box. I was hoping to see how your paint “garage” fit. Here is Lewes, Delaware(the first town in the first state in America) it is a sandy peninsula, where the wind gusts are regularly 25 and above. I gave up on my cheap standard easel which I had to hold down, for a heavier and more stable French easel. Although it is cumbersome to carry and set up. The pochad does interest me though for quick plein air setup. I’m going to Eric Rhoad’s PACE in North Carolina in a couple weeks. I’m not sure now how well prepared I am. Anyway, love your videos. Your plein air AND your still lifes are fantastic!! Thank you for sharing your gift.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Unfortunately the Open Box M pochade is no longer produced. I think perhaps I should delete this video! My Day Tripper easel is sturdier and a lot heavier but still can be unstable at times. I am also attending the PACE convention, with my husband Mr B, see you there!👩🏻‍🎨🎨❤️

[@grandpa_eric]

@@ClareBowenArtist oh WOW!! 🤩 wonderful, see you there! It’s a 10 hr car ride for me. Safe travels!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

@@grandpa_eric Be great to meet you Eric! Have a safe journey! Clare

[@syriacartist3490]

Thanks a lot for sharing👌🏼💐 I searched a lot to build up my 1st DIU pochade box & Yours I found the most practical, useful & sturdy… so Happy 😊 Now to work ! ☺️💪🏼🔨🪚🔩

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Glad it was helpful Syriac, happy to share! Good luck with you work , enjoy!👨🏼‍🎨❤️

[@yiannisteward]

Lovely presentation ,thank you very much!!! Greetings from Greece!!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you Ioannis I’m pleased you like it! 😊

[@nievestrega9247]

Gorgeous, one of my fave easels,! Fantastic Fair Isle jumper too!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Nieve, yes mine too! 🎨💕

[@shellyhubel4292]

Fantastic review! thank you.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Glad it was helpful Shelly! 👩🏻‍🎨❤️

[@darlenenope8555]

Excellent complete well rounded useful demonstration. Appreciate you getting right to the point of work. Thank you & Happy Painting my friend artist

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thanks glad it’s helpful!

[@chrislysne1046]

So refreshing to see an INFORMATIVE video without the added talk that has nothing to do with information and easels! THANK YOU!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Glad you enjoyed it Chris! ❤️

[@skasskass8331]

This was so useful. Just getting started in oils and always wondered how those boxes work. I will be looking into buying one. I love your style of painting and your generous sharing demonstrations……

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you really glad it’s helpful! Good luck with buying a pochade and enjoy plein air painting! 🎨

[@petertaylor2502]

Great vid Clare, I keep promising myself to do more outdoor, this has given me a push in the right direction. Best wishes Peter

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Peter, that's great to hear - you can do it! Let me know how you get on. Happy painting!

[@pleinaire8698]

Hi Clare...great demo..I've been using the Soltek easel since 1998..still working!!!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Excellent! Thank you! 😊

[@sambowen4163]

This is your 'office tools', so important to have the right equipment and this definitely is. It seems to tick the boxes and very well explained. The extra tips of the paintbrush holders, well done Nick, is an excellent addition, and much needed!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you Sam! It is so important to have the right kit, but sometimes it takes a while to know what the right kit for yourself is! x🙂

[@peterkowalenko2553]

Thank you for a fantastic review.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Glad it was helpful!😍

That was great! Very informative. I'm thinking of buying a Pochade box so I'm watching and reading here and there, trying to decide. Thank you so much for sharing this!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Glad you found it helpful Sylvia! Happy to share! 😍

[@melcooper5389]

Thanks so much for this video Clare, it was very useful. My budget can't quite stretch to a real pochade at the moment so I'm going to try to make my own, but I couldn't work out how the board holders functioned. Good to know, and you explained it very nicely. Thanks again.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Mel, that's great the video was helpful, especially as you are going to make a pochade yourself!! That's impressive, hope it works out, let me know... 🙂best Clare

[@dogcatmom5877]

I have been thinking of purchasing an Open M so this video was extremely helpful! Best video I've seen about how it works. Thank you!!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hello glad it was helpful. So you are away there delivery times are slow!

[@susankolpack7044]

Thank you for this video of your equipment for success. Beautiful paintings and you are so inspiring. Thank you to for color mixing and value explanation. You have a refreshing and delightful personality. You have my sympathy in the loss of the Queen. I personally admired her so much and will miss her a great deal.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hello Susan such lovely words and I really appreciate what you said. And thank you for watching my videos. Also for your condolences about the Queen - a very inspiring lady 💙

[@marcjasikovic]

I love to see other artists equipment! Thanks for sharing. I build my palette box myself, I just finished my third iteration, will test it out on Monday, finger crossed!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Marc! Thank you and I hope the Test went well! 👨🏼‍🎨👏😊

[@marcjasikovic]

@@ClareBowenArtist thank you! It did go well!

[@nicoleheinemeyer]

Many thanks for Sharing. Very helpful❤

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Happy to share Nicole, thank you, ❤️

[@ronschlorff7089]

I had used and even made several easels for plein air, and studio work too, for years before getting an Open Box M in the late 90's. The selling point for me was I had gone to a PAPA workshop, in the San Diego area, at that time, and all the great plein air artists, like Matt Smith, were using them. They still do, many of them. In fact, whenever I'm looking for plein air vids to watch, like this one, I look to see what they are using as an easel. If it's an Open Box M, I know they know what they are doing, and I will watch the vid. I have 5 of them, all only the "clam shell" easels, not the whole box they sell with a panel dryer holder. I use Ray Mar panel boxes now, after making several of my own earlier. I have all their easel sizes but use the 9x12 the most and love it. Also have the sturdy tripod they sell, with quick release and universal joint. That set-up is stable, easy to use, and quick to get going with. And it never "fights me" in the field, which is so important, since enough other things fight you out there, while you are trying to paint. Good review thanks!! ;D

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Ron, its so interesting hearing what you use! and others painters you & I follow too, like Matt Smith. I agree we need kit that doesn't fight back and is easy as there are many things that aren't easy with plein air painting! Thanks so much for watching & supporting, best wishes, Clare

[@paintingsbypenelope]

Clipping the rag to the table... so simple and brilliant. I've just started doing plain air (studio painter here). I've learned quite a few things by failing but I can see you have more experience and tips. I was thinking of doing a video showing my top fails as a complete beginner on a budget.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Penelope, sounds a great idea, I'll look out of the video. Pleased you liked the tips in this one. Happy Painting...Clare

[@paintingsbypenelope]

@@ClareBowenArtist thank you. And keep up the great videos.

[@thomasaikins2860]

Clare, you are delightful! And I love your work! Open Box M is my go to pochade. I bought my first one 20 yrs ago and now have 4! Their website is now offline and something seems to have gone off the rails with the ownership and/or management. Hang on to them. They may become collectors items. Come to Utah and paint sometime!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hello Thomas and Utah! Thank you for the invite and appreciation of my work! I still have the Pochards not likely to let them go!👩🏻‍🎨🎨❤️

[@joypinturra6151]

Great studio easel...and studio setup....

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Glad you like it Joy! 😊Thank you

[@lally816]

Very good video😊💕

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you! 📽❤️

[@paulappswildlifeart]

Some good pointers Claire, so happy to know that I am not the only Pochade nut out there, with way too many lol. thanks Paul

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you Paul. Yes, they are lovely items!! Easy to collect…

[@user-xh4pw2uc4z]

I love plein air, I painting a lot in plein air myself!! You are a great fellow, colleague! Great review, thanks a lot! We, in our country, use more "heavy equipment"), but it is also more stable in the wind and allows you to paint in the open air on canvases up to one meter! Аlso in this modification it is embarrassing that it is less stable for canvases, and the picturesque boards can get wet in the rain, and this is fatal for them, of course there is also an advantage in the form of low weight, which is important when traveling and plein air painting. In general, everything is cool, good luck!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you for your comment! Portable and lighter equipment is important in Cornwall as very hilly! Good luck to you too!🙏😊🎨

[@flash_b_3602]

Clare, this is just what I needed to see. Saving for one of these and you’ve convinced me they are the best to suit me needs. Great to see a real review done by a real artist. Love your work. Ash

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Ash, your comment really inspires me do more videos! I'm so pleased it's helped you decide, you wont regret it! Let me know how you get on once you start using your pochade... Best wishes, Clare

[@shellyhubel4292]

Hi Clare. I have the largest size: 12x16 and It is great in the studio. It is a bit cumbersome to travel with....although I have done it. I just receive the PaintBox from Edge pro in Large and am traveling this weekend for a session w/ a master egg tempera painter. the Lg edge pro is heavier than my 12 x 16 Open Box m....so we shall see. I understand Open Box M has developed a new ordering process w/ a waitlist to alleviate customer frustration w/ delays. I think this is amazing....as Open Box M is easy to use, lightweight and not as expensive as Edge Pro Gear Paintbox. I had issues with my $1000 setup from 'edge Pro and they have yet to respond. ....so it is not just Edge Pro w/ customer service issues. Thx for the great review. I have my second Open Box M on the way!!! They are still the Cadillac of plein air easel in my opinion.

[@trace_element]

I‘ve just discovered your channel and am very excited :). These equipment videos are really helpful. I wonder if you have ever tried the clove oil trick for paint preservation or know of any negative effects of the clove oil. I use it at home by putting my whole palette in a Tupperware container with little felt stickers (the kind you put on furniture feet to protect the floor) dabbed with clove oil in it. The paint can last for weeks if I haven‘t had time to paint. Thanks for making these, I look forward to catching up with what you‘ve created so far!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Tracy I don’t use the clove oil because I find the smell pervades everything! I put my palette garage in the freezer, ☺️thanks for watching!

[@Guylangloisartist]

Great easel

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thanks Guy! 👩🏻‍🎨

[@debbiesheridan3334]

Hi Clare, thank you for explaining your Pocharde. I have had a plein air easel for around 4 years and I have never used it out doors as its very tricky to erect!! Plus it doesnt have a mixing pallet included. A waste of money really. I wish I had known about these ones on a tripod. 🤷‍♀️🙄😅💕💕💕...I love all your tutorials. I am watching as many as I can. I get up at 6am usually and its dark here atm until 8ish so I indulge in tutorials until enough daylight to paint. Im itching to just get down to our local marina, to paint boats but just dont!! 🤷‍♀️

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Debbie! I no longer use the Open Box M but have a new easel set up for en plein air work called a Day Tripper from Prolific Painter. Do you follow me on Instagram as I have a few short videos / reels there under clarebowenartist.📽👩🏻‍🎨❤️

[@gilberthoste4315]

Thank You.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thanks! 🙂

[@sylviewheeler6237]

Super gréât vidéo!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you Sylvie! 📽👩🏻‍🎨😍

[@mariayadegarart]

Great video Clare. Lovely to see your pochade set up and get a glimpse of your studio. Is your camera man for hire?! My husband is great at DIY, but not camera work 😉😂

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thanks Maria, Nick's pretty busy but where do you live...? 🙂

[@user-wr1hv7to4w]

Wow!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you! :-)

[@ARTyHaG]

Thank you 👏🖌👩🏼‍🎨

[@ClareBowenArtist]

You’re welcome 😊

[@paulfogarty7724]

Hi Clare. Nice " show & tell " art equipment video. I see in other videos some complaining about the price of the OBM. I put this down to a kind of " hobbiest " mentality that surrounds art & painting these days. If you go back to the 1930s for example when there was more a professional attitude to art, a metal watercolour box could cost an average weeks pay in those days. I like the OBM pochade though I ended up getting a " U-go " pochade that opens like a laptop. Dear enough, but a bit less than the OBM and it was readily available from an art shop here in Dublin. Its uses magnets to hold the panel clamps and to keep it closed. Friction hinges to keep it open ( so far - so good )...I think the OBM pochades have a lot more construction and quality parts in them and you can see why they cost more.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you Paul for your observations and detail! Happy painting!🎨😊

[@WayfaringStranger1420]

Hi Clare! I have an open box M as well, thank you for sharing these tips about your palette set up, I’m trying to adjust mine to make it work better. I never thought to Clip the paper towels down. This is so helpful. Do you have to have some kind of temporary adhesive to keep your palette in the box’s bottom while traveling home with it to prevent the oils from smushing to the top when closed? I would love to not have to bring along plastic wrap. How does the palette stay in place when in your back pack? Thanks again!

[@anneclark2888]

Brilliant video Clare. You have a lovely natural way of presenting. Im making my own pochard because i don't want to spend a lot and find that i don't use it much! I've come across a problem with the lid. Do you know what the 'hinge' is called? I've spent days looking online but can't find anything that looks remotely like it. Thanks Anne

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Anne I’m sorry I do t know what the hinge is called. I hope you found one! Good luck with your pochade making. Thanks for watching ☺️🎨

[@agnieszkaszczepaniak6994]

Hello Clare I just before buying my plain air easel and i surprise how many different kinds there are, I was ment to buy daytripper easel look like great - specially the palet area. But the Open box looks like great after your presentation. What’s a pity that there is no in Europe equivalent of plein air easel😢 because the cost of tax and shippping double the prize. I can’t stop thinking what to choose. Thank you for presentation.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hello Agnieszka, I have also researched Daytripper I think it’s a good easel too and maybe getting one as well. I know people buy Ugo brand in the Uk as no shipping tax extras.it is tricky as it makes the cost a lot more. Hope you find one that suits, best Clare

[@janemant1742]

Thanks for this Clare, a very comprehensive tour. So far I have only painted in my watercolour sketch book outdoors. But I’m now wanting to step up to painting with oils en plein air. Would you say this 11 x 14 is your most used size? I like the way it fits into a backpack. You’ve inspired me!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Jane, I am so pleased you feel inspired!! It is an 11x14" Open Box M pochade. It's my most used by far as it has a good sized mixing area and as you say it fits into my bag. Good luck with your next step of painting... Clare

[@janemant1742]

@@ClareBowenArtist Thanks! 😊

[@ronschlorff7089]

@@ClareBowenArtist I paint small, in the field, and find the 9x12 perfect for most paintings, it can go up to an 11x14 panel, but my most used one is 9x12, sometimes even down to 6x8. People, friends, are amazed I can get a painting done in 30-45 minutes on this set up. Fast and loose, will capture everything you want, outdoors, before it all goes "stale" on you. Anyway, I do have the big 11x14 which can also be used as a studio easel for small works, and portrait sketches, up to 16x20, and such! ;D

[@camerachica73]

This was so useful as I ordered my pochade (Open Box M) a few weeks ago and am waiting for it to arrive, so extremely helpful to see it being set up! Can I ask why you chose the liteglaze specifically and not just ordered a precut bit of acrylic sheet?

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you very much, I'm so pleased it was useful, exciting you've just ordered your own Open Box M! I choose liteglaze as it was relatively easy to cut & not expensive. So I could have more than one palette for my different box sizes and spares for doing multiple paints in a day if needed. But good idea too to order an acrylic sheet to fit. Just a note that there are two screw heads protruding into the palette area so you'll need to cut the pre-made sheet to fit around them. See my video and when I take the sheet out you'll see the two notches in them. Hope this is clear🙂 Good luck and happy painting! Any other questions happy to answer. Best wishes Clare

[@camerachica73]

@@ClareBowenArtist Aah ok that makes sense!

[@millisamae2330]

Hello! Thank you so much for the video! I was wondering about the piece that you have on your palette that you keep your daubs of paint out on. I saw it on your demo plein air. It’s a great idea! Could you tell me What is it made of?

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you Millisa! The paint carrier is called a Palette Garage from Great Art Tools USA. Unfortunately they do not ship to the UK. 🎨👩🏻‍🎨

[@shahadathussain7477]

Great

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you!👩🏻‍🎨😊

[@rhodevans6523]

Hi Clare - I think I will invest in one of these. I would love to know about your 'paint carrier' (not shown in this video) that is shown in other videos of yours, that slips into what looks like a water pipe. Thanks!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Rhod, it’s called a palette garage from the USA, the website is Great Art Tools. Best, Clare 🎨

[@hastingsgraphics]

great video and product, how to you carry wet completed paintings ?

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you, I have wet panel carriers, I'm going to do a video on them, hope this might be helpful?

[@davidlacroix6048]

Hi. Have you used a 16x20 or a 20x20 canvas on your 11x14 Open Box M? I was looking at the bigger one but I would like to keep the setup as light as possible. I am planning to use it in my studio space as well and I primarily paint on 16x20 canvases. Thanks for sharing your experiences. Enjoyed your video. Deb

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hello David the maximum size an open box m will take is 19.5” wide any size height. For bigger pieces I have the 12x16”. Although it’s quite a bit heavier and bigger to carry! I hope that helps 😊

[@JillFaragher]

Thank you for sharing all this info! Another question... Where did you get your beautiful sweater? :)🙂

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Jill, it's my fave jumper thank you! It's from Aspiga - 'Alpine Merino Wool jumper, Sea Green' Hope you can find it...

[@amandagleason8641]

What’s the tool you use for your paints in the Pochade box - looks great from the plein air videos I’ve seen of you.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Amanda, its called a Palette Garage - where I store all my paints? You can buy it online. Thank you for watching 🙂

[@CJ-bn6gf]

So good to know about this, thank you. Please talk about the long tray in which you squirt your colours. Does it come with the box or do you get those separately?

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi there it’s called a Palette Garage and it comes from the USA. Website - great art tools. Mine is an 11x14” 😊🎨

[@CJ-bn6gf]

Thank you so much. Open Box M not taking orders currently but I found something similar on Amazon...Meeden? I think. By the way, I love your work. You are an inspiration and it's so helpful to know that you sometimes hesitate/rub out/scrape off!!!! Keep posting!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you!! I'm glad you found something alternative, let me know how it is for you. I will keep posting :-)

[@carolinegreene372]

Hi Clare, I like the idea of being able to lift out the acetate sheets. Mine has got stuck in situ, and when I tried to paint a nocturne I found the acetate was too reflective from the easel lights. I’m going to have to break it to get it out! And cut a new sheet. Is that knife better than a Stanley knife for cutting the acetate? P.S. I have plan chest envy!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Caroline, thanks for your comment. I haven't found glare a problem, maybe my palette is grubbier so doesn't reflect as much! The knife is better than a Stanley because it's specifically for cutting plastic, it has a special shaped blade on it. You have to score it a few times then it should just break with some gentle pressure. Chest plan from ebay! 🙂

[@carolinegreene372]

@@ClareBowenArtist that’s interesting, I’ll try that knife. Yes, I was looking at your plastic sheet in your videos and thought it looks duller and milkier than mine. Been looking on eBay for a plan chest for years but they’re always too big or something! You did really well there 😀

[@davidgamblin8848]

Thanks for posting this. May I ask about the tripod - is this a Manfrotto Befree tripod with a standard QR plate or a bigger variant?

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi David It is the befree tripod but with this mount and plate: Manfrotto 394 RC4 Low Profile Rectangular Rapid Connect Adapter with 410PL Plate Included. Hope this helps :-)

[@davidgamblin8848]

@@ClareBowenArtist thanks Clare

[@ronschlorff7089]

@@ClareBowenArtist Yes, very stable tripod, I've panted at the seashore in CA with mine and no problems with the constant high winds there. Mine is the universal joint quick release set up. Attaches in 2 seconds flat!! My painting friend once said: "Ronnie, he's 'zero to painting' in under one minute!!" LOL ;D

[@dorinpopa3821]

I had a very bad experience with Open Box M. After placing an order on 27 of April 2022, and after endless inquiries about the status, only end of Nov after I sent last text saying I will complain officially against them, I got my money back, after 7 months of hopes. What would be a close alternative to their products ?

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Dorin, I’m so sorry that you had a bad experience with OBM. They seem to Struggle with keeping up on their orders & communication 😔 I know others like UGO but not the smallest one, maybe 11x14” hope that helps.

[@karenwadsworth5508]

Hi Clare! I recently bought an 11x14 OBM (which is another story in itself). I enjoyed your video, and especially liked your tips on adding the acrylic liner/palette to the bottom of the box. However, it brought up another question for me: how do you keep the acrylic palette in place once your pochade box is packed up and on its side? I'm thinking that if it isn't held in place in some way it will shift around and leave a potential mess on the panel holder area. Since you like to remove your palettes from your pochade box I inferred that you don't caulk them in. Thanks in advance!

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Karen a good question! I cut the palette quite snug so it doesn't move. I pull it out with the velcro stickies I use for my palette garage. I hope this explains it? Good luck & happy painting with your new OBM!! :-)

[@ronschlorff7089]

@@ClareBowenArtist I use a thin piece of Masonite, that I use my point driver that I use to secure my panel paintings into my frames. They can be removed but cleaning well after use, sometimes, will work to keep the area workable for painting. I suppose glue would work too, enough to secure the piece of acrylic or Masonite but easily removed if necessary. Some folks even just use the bottom as is, and after a while will become a nice working surface, being oiled so often.

[@shonaaitken7635]

These seem like a really great size for plein air. It's a shame the company doesn't make them anymore (or the company doesn't exist anymore).

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Agree Shona it s a shame! 👩🏻‍🎨

[@christinehalet6234]

seconde question : do you also have to buy the sliding quick release plate in addition to the adapter because on amazon they also sell it

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Usually they don’t come with a head so you buy that separately and the quick release plate comes with that.

[@steveurwingreyhairwithcrea5310]

Having been painting for 20 years have decided to go outdoors for a change from studio. What kind of tripod would work with open boxM please ?

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Steve any camera works with an open box m. You need a quick release plate too. It attaches the two together. Weight and stability are things to look for in a tripod. Good luck with your plein air painting!🎨

[@jessicaalexander1959]

Hi Clare, great video, actually the video that made me decide to purchase one. They look so fantastic and I had high hopes, unfortunately I have not received it after waiting 6 months. I just wanted to share with others that might be eager to purchase the Open Box M (there is no google review or a space to leave a review on the website, and I know this has nothing do with you, and I’m sorry to put it here but as this is the top google result I thought a good way to perhaps reach a few people). I ordered a pochade box and a suite of accessories at the beginning of July 2022 and still have not received it, and communication has been very poor and just been stringing me along. I really hope I either get my box soon or a refund as it was very expensive for me.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Jessica I’m so sorry to hear you have so mucked around by OBM people. I really hope you get your pochade soon it’s quite awful not being able to communicate and waiting so long. I expect your itching to have a go!! I have added a warning to my video description about the wait and lack of coms. Best wishes and good luck, Clare 🎨👩‍🎨

[@jessicaalexander1959]

@@ClareBowenArtist Hi Clare, just to give you an update. Open Box M never sent me my pochade box, and Douglas stopped replying to my messages asking for a refund. My bank's fraud department are currently pursuing the matter. Such a disappointment, and I have missed out on a whole season of plain air painting. Hopefully this warning will help other artists.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

@@jessicaalexander1959 Hi Jessica, it's very shocking to hear about your experience. I'm sorry sorry you went through this. I can recommend the Daytripper easel from Prolific painter. I've been using it for the last month, its fab and they are quick on customer service. Best wishes, Clare

[@markjones1542]

Thank you for video unfortunately I’m unable to purchase the open box M as they have been discontinued ❤

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Gosh amazing they are not doing it anymore. I can recommend a couple of other pochades: Daytripper and Daybreak both very good!

[@markjones1542]

@@ClareBowenArtist Hi Clare thank you for the easel recommendations will check them out. I have purchased from Australian artist Leon Holmes His portable easels named after Kangaroos! The Boomer, skippy and the hand held one called a Joey. I got the Boomer version which all of the rang fits onto a tripod for about £140 for the largest one and includes free shipping worldwide which I thought was well worth it. Kindest regards, Mark ❤️

[@kb8205]

Hi Clare, does the bigger 12 x16 fit into your backpack? Is it much heavier than smaller one? (Which do you prefer for most plein air outings? Thanks for all the info, Kazz

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Kazz it doesn’t fit in my backpack. I actually now use a Daytripper easel it’s more versatile and I prefer to work at eye level instead of looking down on the OBM easel!

[@kb8205]

@@ClareBowenArtist Thanks Clare. Do you have a link to the Daytripper easel? (is it still made?) I have been trying to find a good and lightweight easel for ages now... thanks

[@Nova9I]

Hi Claire! Can i use 5x7 or 8x10 word panel on the 12x16? Thanks in advance😊 trying to figure out what size to buy.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hello, you can use anything from 5” across so both those sizes would works on a 12x16”. It’s quite a big easel so unless you’ll be painting big or want a large mixing area a 11x14” is a good size too!! Hope this helps 😊🎨

[@Nova9I]

@@ClareBowenArtist Thanks 😊

[@shradhathorat]

How do you scrape the paint of the litegaze acrylic sheet? Does palette knife work with it?

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Yes with a knife! 🎨

[@charleswebster2682]

Hi Sam could you tell me what oil paint you use series 4 or 5 paint is very expensive,how important is quality paint?

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hello Charles, they are expensive. Buy what you can afford, and then use enough of it don’t scrimp when setting out the paints! 😊🎨

[@martingibbons8021]

Hi Clare when did you start using the Open Box M was this your first Pochade set up ?

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Martin good question. I’ve used the set up since 2016 when I properly got into plein air. I have tried other pochade makes along the way but like some of the features of the OBM and have gotten used to it! Hope this helps?

[@wendycollins1986]

Hi Clare is this particular Pochade box available in the uk?

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Wendy! Since we made this video, the company that made this pochade appears to have ceased trading! The Day Break easel from America is similar! We are due to delete this video as it is no longer pertinent, apologies! 👩🏻‍🎨❤️

[@neerajsharma3247]

Hello Clare, May I ascertain which bag it is that, you are using in order to place the 12"x16" OpenM Box pochade Panel and Palette Holder, for Plein Air activity? I noted that, the 11" x 14" OpenM Box is placed in to the bag. I am thinking, that, this item 12" x 16" is what I may require, as it is possibly the most robust on the market, though, I do also like the possibility of the 10"x8" as well, i.e. if these are still being handmade? I am led to understand that, there is some five-months considerable delay, and orders from June are still pending, and, seemingly, there is only one person that, does everything for its Company Open M Box.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hello Neeraj thanks for your message. It’s a laptop bag. Fits my 11x14” not a 12x16”. I am not affiliated with open box m so don’t know their working practise. Good luck with your painting. Clare

[@neerajsharma3247]

@@ClareBowenArtist Thank you for your reply re: the laptop bag. I recognise that, Open Box M is possibly one of the best in terms of materials and functionality, and robustness. However, due its unavailability, and, in pursuit of the interest in practising, I have ordered a 6"x6" Palette Box which holds two panels in this size, and, have ordered a Guerrilla 5"x7" Pochade Box; largely, because the delay in the Open Box M 10"x8" Palette and Panel Box and the 12" x 16", which, are definitely two of the desirable and required equipment's; but, alas, cannot hang around for six-months or longer, or would it be a year, hence, have decided to order the Guerilla 5"x7", and, an independent Sweden based maker who makes the 6"x6" Palette and Panel Pochade box; all of which, will facilitate the practice in Oil, thus, making it much easier to do 40minute to 60minute Plein Air sketches / paintings; though, of course, this size may also possibly be accomplished in 30minutes too, as my first ever 10"x12" took me 50mins Landscape in Suffolk, for which, I used the standard type Pochade Box which is readily available from so many art shops priced at £40 or thereabouts. Best wishes. I saw your Lavender Fields in France you tube; wow! I love Lavender, it is one of my favourite of flowers. Your painting is brilliant, and, it helps to have a team. I shall explore a way to be involved in a team, somehow...which, helps with all kinds of things.

[@jimjotka2187]

Some will submerge the oil paint in the water to keep it a little longer

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Never heard that one Jim! ❤️

[@user-fr6dl1qx3d]

Clare where can you purchase an OBM?

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Pat, Since I made the video, the company no longer is producing the OBM. You maybe able to find one on EBay? 👩🏻‍🎨🎨

[@borealiswan2363]

The only problem with these kinds of pochades is where or how do you store your finished painting(s)... I use a guerilla type that contains everything, paint, dirty palette, & panels. Be interested to know how you hike back with a wet painting, thanks for the demo

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi there I use a Raymar wet painting carrier. It’s light and fits lots of different sizes. It is a pain to bring another item out but they last for years and you get used to it! I haven’t used one a guerilla box but it sounds good!

[@ronschlorff7089]

@@ClareBowenArtist Yes, made my own wooden dry panel boxes for years, some paneled on sides with some of my old "failed" paintings (canvas glued to mahogany sheet panel), looked pretty cool, but Ray Mar "changed my life" as far as drying boxes are concerned. Perfect accompaniment to my Open Box M's. : )

[@christinehalet6234]

HELLO cLARE the link to the manfrotto doesn't wort. Could you tell me teh reference of yours because there are a lot of kinds of befree manfrotto

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Christine it’s a befree carbon fibre with 3 sections 😊

[@phillipking3008]

I’ve only had 1 desk easel I had another easel I’ve got a desk easel at the moment I haven’t used it for a while

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thanks Phillip, hope you get to use it again soon :-)

[@phillipking3008]

Yes hopefully I will

[@Whiskeygalore24]

Clarel mu tripod is spent, I've got to replace it are you using g a Manfrotto Befree Advanced, I noticed you don't have the ball head, it's such a difficult area to choose a tripod your help would be appreciated artist I Ireland.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

hi Marcella it is tricky re tripod choosing. Mine is a Manfrotto BeFree Carbon tripod. I’m not sure if the exact design is available now. I don’t tilt my open box m palette so didn’t need the ball head. I took it off and put a quick release plate on both the pochade and tripod. does this help? happy to answer any other questions. best wishes, Clare

[@Whiskeygalore24]

@@ClareBowenArtist thanks Clare this helps a lot, your a star.

[@paintingsbypenelope]

What is the total weight of your gear?

[@ClareBowenArtist]

I haven't got the exact weight, next time I've packed my bag up I will weigh it for you and write it here! Best wishes, Clare

[@anthonytaylor9232]

Sorry to be a bother Clare, can you point me in the direction of where you managed to source your paint palette garage? Open box M aren't selling them and Great art tools do not appear to ship to the UK. Very frustrating! ps, Loved the Chelsea exhibition, hoped you sold most of your paintings. Bit of a Draaaaag having to hump thing up to your house. When are you going to fit a 'cable car'? regards Anthony.

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Anthony, not a bother at all....sadly Great Art Tools who sell the Palette Garage have stopped shipping to the UK. I am in communication with the lady who owns the company. I'll let you know if anything comes of it. The Chelsea Solo Show went well, I sold and had great feedback, thank you. My husband and I have talked of some sort of lift up to the house one day!! Best wishes, Clare ps Thank you very much for subscribing :-)

[@anthonytaylor9232]

@@ClareBowenArtist Thank you for your reply Clare. I have also sent an email to GAT, whether I get a reply or not is another thing all together. It does seem very odd to me that they don't ship to the UK. i did poke a little 'ironic humour' their way, asking if it was anything to do with pre Boston Tea Party days, and we, as yet. are not forgiven.... Keep up Your Good Work. Besst wishes to you and Hubby. Anthony.

[@abderrahimartist1656]

Exactement

[@ClareBowenArtist]

👍👍👍

[@bobsartor5559]

Does anyone have one to sell?

[@ClareBowenArtist]

It is unlikely Bob, sorry.

[@bobsartor5559]

Would you sell your 11X14?

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Bob! I am sorry but my Open Box is not for sale. Have a look at the Day Break easel 9 x 12 from America!😊❤️

[@bobsartor5559]

Hi Clare, Understand. Would you please ask around for me. I'd like the 11x14. I've been looking for a long time. Happy painting... Thank you,

[@user-fc5gf8hf1w]

太复杂了 。远不如我设计的油画箱！

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you for your observations! 😊

[@wulanbao3887]

😡Only tried to order after watching this very interesting video. Website very quick to take your money but do not send goods and are not contactable. Could you explain why you would share a Link to a Company that do not supply goods that get ordered. Very disappointing that you promote and share links for a Company that don't deliver the products your describing

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Hi Wulan I’m so sorry to hear you’ve had trouble with the Open Box m company. I shared the video because people always ask me what I use as my plein air pochade. They didn’t endorse the video probably don’t even know about it. It’s such a shame you’ve had such trouble ordering. I really hope it sorts out for you. I am in no way connected to OBM I just use their pochades to paint. Sending best wishes, Clare

[@AFranco62]

I have received my orders took a bit delayed. He responds to texts. Maybe I’m lucky.

[@budakart]

Masyaallah....come to al Islam n success

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you 😊

[@chalkhillblueportsmouth3363]

This is so helpful Clare! Enjoyed the video and the clear explanations. Hope you can do some more? 😊👏👍

[@ClareBowenArtist]

Thank you CHB really pleased you found the video helpful. I am making more videos like this - tips on equipment etc. Keep a look out, best wishes, Clare