How To Make a James Gurney Style Sketch Easel

In this video I'll show you how to make a James Gurney style sketch easel like mine, step by step, using minimal tools.
UPDATE
In the video I recommend buying pre-cut boards as the easiest way to get a really nice finish. I still think this is true - whether from this company or any other selling small drawing boards. However as a few people have noted in the comments, they do come at a price and there are cheaper alternatives. Getting ply chopped for you at your hardware store is one option - B&Q will do it here in the UK, and there are online companies too. You could buy the timber and chop it yourself using a hand saw or a jigsaw, and then sand the edges - the finish might not be quite as good, but then again you might not care about that - it will still be perfectly functional and a lot cheaper. One viewer recommended getting offcuts from a carpenter, which is a nice idea. Likewise the hinges and the tripod - the ones I recommend are excellent but there are cheaper ones on Amazon. If you're on a really tight budget, please don't be put off, you can still make one!
---------------------------
Links:
Benro Slim Carbon Fibre Tripod
amzn.to/3lXUUFz
Plywood Boards
www.thenaturalworkshop.co.uk/...
Osmo Oil
amzn.to/3aTJc8K
Hinges
www.wdscomponents.com/en-gb/t...
T Nut
www.ebay.co.uk/itm/IMPERIAL-1...
Magnets
amzn.to/2ZhB3bX
Liz Deakin Palette
www.jacksonsart.com/liz-deaki...
Water Pots
www.jacksonsart.com/jas-artis...
Araldite Rapid
amzn.to/3B1DQmC
Soudal Fixall
amzn.to/3DYF6IR
Bolts
The bolts I used I already had in my toolkit, so I can't supply a link, but they're M5 x 10mm with a 9mm dome head. The best place to look is probably eBay, but note that the screw holes on those hinges is 1cm, so the head width needs to be smaller than that.
James Gurney Blog
gurneyjourney.blogspot.com/
James Gurney KZbin
/ gurneyjourney
James Gurney Books - Colour & Light, Imaginative Realism (both amazing).
amzn.to/3E12O7C
amzn.to/3aWcGTv

[@leewilliamson5689]

I would hope James Gurney would be given praise for the work he has done, by going to his site and picking up his instructions for a small artists fee.

[@barbaraemerson7352]

Great video and ideas, thank you. Yes, the James Gurney sketch easel is a slight obsession of mine along with small watercolor palettes :)

[@chelseawhite7117]

I can’t believe I’m only liking this video now when I’ve been referencing it over and over in the process of building my own easel. Now that it’s done, I’m so thrilled with it and can’t wait to take it for a spin. Thanks so much for your insights and for making this info accessible

[@cherylshannon8505]

Thanks for sharing your journey! Loved it!

[@aiirmedia3310]

Great work! Very informative. Happy painting

[@dollygrice677]

Very nice. I made mine from an old cigar box. Love love love James Gurney.

[@clairestrickland5140]

Thanks! Really helpful info.

[@cathygardner9214]

Thank you for the terrific video. You have explained everything clearly for us artistic types who are not familiar with woodwork and tool...:) This will really help!!!

[@WillJBailey]

Ah thank you! 😊🙏

[@chiaradecabarrus3633]

The Americans have the best kit , no doubt about it. I bought the gurney plans ages ago but thanks to this tutorial I am now going to be able to make it so thanks for all the very useful info

[@red988]

I am impressed with all the work you have done to achieve a "James Gurney" style sketch easel. If I were younger I would make one for myself, but until then I will have to make do. But I know where to go if I decide to make one. Thanks for sharing. JB (UK).

[@jonnyboy9584]

Well done, I so glad I watched this before making one myself.

[@anartfuljourneywithroberty3784]

Thank you for the information 👍🏻

[@RayRayHandyman]

Thank you for your explanation, very practical, good job.

[@WillJBailey]

😊🙏

[@luckyhiker3434]

You are a brilliant demonstrator-speaker. Nice job!

[@WillJBailey]

Thank you! ☺

[@danthompson1m]

You made this very clear and straightforward. Thanks!

[@WillJBailey]

Thanks Daniel! Glad it was of use.

[@danthompson1m]

@@WillJBailey It was; I've been assembling the components. I appreciate the source for the birch panels - I just ordered.

[@doseofinspirationclips]

Thanks just what I needed

[@ferromo1971]

Thanks for this . Now it is time to try

[@vaq130]

this is very practical and yes thank to James and you

[@WillJBailey]

😊🙏

[@johnjhunter5185]

Nicely explained👍

[@ShamelesslyCreative]

I have been thinking of making one of these. Turner palette cleaner should work wonderfully to clean your plastic! a little goes a long way.

[@tamborelconejo]

soooooooooo good....thanks for the info, 100% useful

[@WillJBailey]

Thanks!

[@carmenbootArt]

Great video 🎉😊😊😊

[@paulbaldwin6803]

Well done!

[@WillJBailey]

Thanks!😊🙏

[@bil_chamberlin]

I wish you spent more time filming the actual finished product

[@WillJBailey]

By popular demand! kzbin.info/www/bejne/jYnChYWEm7lsiZY

[@bil_chamberlin]

Thank You!

[@yancowles]

Thanks Will, that's really fantastic, I always liked the idea of making one of these but I didn't think I'd be able to source all the bits in the UK. I'm based on Walthamstow and like to get out for a bit of plein air so at the moment I have a backpack with a stool built into it for a Nathan Fowkes type set up. This works really well but there's obviously an issue with height so a tripod mounted easel would be ideal as a complement.

[@WillJBailey]

Thanks Artur. Me too! Not possible at the moment sadly with the lockdown...

[@yancowles]

@@WillJBailey Hi Will, I'm actually Yan from instagram. I posted this a while ago but figured you weren't checking YT so much so sent you the other message. Still waiting for a correctly sized flat bit to arrive but hopefully tomorrow.

[@GGlovescj]

You are the most underrated art KZbinr

[@WillJBailey]

Thank you! 😊🙏

[@federinik77]

Thanks, and from an Italian...Ciao!

[@WillJBailey]

😊🙏

[@grahamwelsh4258]

Excellent

[@jimwarrong]

You can make a 'torque' or better friction hinge by punching out the pin in any hinge and replacing with a similar diameter bolt with washer and wing nut This works just as well, is much cheaper and gives you a lot more flexability in your design. And if you can't find a t nut an ordinary hexagnal nut can be sunk into the wood and if need be, epoxy resined.

[@WillJBailey]

Thanks Jim. Yes I’m sure your idea could work, this is just the way I did it. The torque hinge i used wasn’t cheap, but it was super-easy to install, is beautifully engineered and looks great.

[@kantamana1]

The washers in manufactered friction hinges are often a mix of phosphor bronze and spring washers of steel.

[@atharvakarandikar441]

hey, I wanted to make torque hinges coz they are way too expensive where I live. but I couldn't understand your process. could you explain it step by step?

[@stevietv321]

This would work great with pastels as well. Thanks

[@WillJBailey]

Thanks Stevie! 😊

[@halibut1249]

The clamshell design w/ torsion hinges could also be constructed using two cradled paint boards, the bottom serving as your palette, the upper as your canvas support; the back could cradle a wet canvas for transport. A tripod would have to be attached to the lower board as well.

[@michaelduxbury3525]

I've been trying to figure out how to make one of these, thanks

[@WillJBailey]

😊

[@norjavaart9934]

Thanks 👍👍👍

[@WillJBailey]

🙏😊

[@nattyw495]

This was helpful im still a bit confused on the attached part to the tripod do you possibly have a video of attaching that picec to your board?

[@TradIrishHarper]

Excellent video. I love the aluminum hinges due to strength. What is the hinge size?

[@erynpimentel915]

This is fantastic, thank you. I’m going the same route in ordering custom plywood boards. I assume you got 9mm thick ones? I noticed when using the chisel to put in the hinges, it looks like you are using a different, straight edge piece of plywood, maybe just for the video, but how was that process with the rounded edges on your actual boards?

[@WillJBailey]

Thanks Eryn! Yes that's right, I used 9mm board. There's a link to the supplies in the description. The board I used for demonstration in the video was different, as I made the video after I'd made the easel. As it was the first time I'd made one, and was working it out as I was going along, making the video at the same time would've been difficult and I didn't want to mess up my easel! I used the process exactly as described, though it was much easier with the actual thing, as the plywood I used for the video was marine ply and very tough and my chisel was a bit blunt. It was much easier for the actual board, as it was softer. The roundness of the edges made no difference, the process is exactly the same as in the video.

[@erynpimentel915]

Will J Bailey Great to know, thanks! I’ve reached out to that company but they haven’t responded yet, I’m hoping they can do custom size art boards and not be limited to their default size options on their site

[@michaeltalbot8242]

Great vid and demo just what I need, Just one question does the plate the T nuts fix to need extra stiffening as I can imagine that the twisting moment around the tripod thread and nut my try to exact a ripping force on the T nut, kindest regards mickT

[@WillJBailey]

Hi Michael. Thanks! You can use a bit of glue, like Araldite, to secure the t-nut in place. This, along with the spikes that sink into the wood, should keep it secure.

[@theeaselrider4032]

It looks good. The only thing you might want to do is add washers under the nuts on the back side of where your hinge bolts come out. It helps to distribute the tension from the nut and will help to keep it from loosening over time. If the bolt is long enough, put the flat washer against the wood, a small lock-washer, then the nut. It will never, ever come loose. The set up you have, the nuts could work loose over time and the only way to tighten them, will push them further into the wood. Which means it can happen again, and you'd have to make new holes & re-mount the hinges.

[@WillJBailey]

Thanks! Yes you're right, washers behind the nuts is probably a good idea long-term. I think the reason I didn't use them is because I happened to have the screws already and they weren't long enough for washers. I'll leave an update in the description.

[@derektrudelle4182]

Painter's tape on the opposite side of drilling will help with splinters, too

[@WillJBailey]

Good tip, thanks Derek! 😊

[@anthonybeers]

frame saw, hand saw and shooting board with hand plane, radial arm saw jig saw with guide and finish with hand plane, there are dozens of good cheap ways to cut lumber without a table saw.

[@WillJBailey]

Thanks for your feedback. Yeah I didn’t word that bit very well. Was my first ever KZbin video. Might see if I can edit it. Still though - frame saw, shooting saw, hand plane, radial arm saw - all gear most people probably don’t have. I don’t, and I do loads of DIY. I’ve never got a decent cut from my jigsaw, though mine doesn’t have a guide. I should have recommend using a hand saw as a super-cheap alternative, but for most people, buying boards is a really good option. It’s easy, they look great and they’re not that expensive - cheaper than buying new gear. The video isn’t really aimed at woodworking enthusiasts or advanced DIYers.

[@juliaidris8620]

Hi Will, your video was really helpful. Where did you buy the 1/4” threaded t-nut from? I’m struggling to find one in the UK.

[@WillJBailey]

Thanks Julia! I bought it from eBay. There's a link in the description. I just checked it and they're still available though it does say the seller's away at the moment. But whether from this seller or another, eBay is probably your best bet.

[@juliaidris8620]

Thank you! I’ll keep an eye on that listing and hopefully the shop will be open again soon. I just found all your links! Very helpful thank you.

[@gianpaologuacci8428]

Thank you for this video! I have exactly the same tripod model but I’m having a hard time finding the right t nut on the internet (I live in Italy and unfortunately metric nuts are quite hard to find) Can I ask you more detailed specs? My wood panel is 5/16” thick. Thank you!

[@WillJBailey]

Thanks Gian Paolo! There’s a link to the t nut I used in the description. All tripods have the same size thread I think - 1/4”. Yeah they’re impossible to find at hardware stores etc, you need to look on eBay etc really.

[@gianpaologuacci8428]

Yes, I will go via internet stores like ebay. Thanks again!

[@efwhitedc]

Mr. Baily, other than weight or knapsack capacity, is there any other reason why the Gurney size is never seen as being constructed larger, or with fold-our extensions for collapsible cups, etc.?

[@LeilaCrockett]

You can get great results with even a hand saw. You can either make a jig or eyeball it. Then sand the edges.

[@WillJBailey]

Hi Leila. I stand by that a table saw is the best tool for the job. A hand saw would work for sure, and yes you could make it look good, with a work bench, clamps, time and patience (and preferably a belt sander). But buying them is so much easier!

[@LeilaCrockett]

@@WillJBailey Yeah. Buying them is easier. I can't afford to buy them but I know how to use basic hand tools. I am sure you don't mind me pointing this out for the sake of anyone else in my shoes.

[@WillJBailey]

Fair enough!

[@McPixelWizard]

my local hardware stores in the U.S. will cut wood for you for $1 per cut. you could even start with a remnant to make it even chapter. I don't have room for the circular saw, either.

[@WillJBailey]

Yes, definitely an option - I nearly did it that way.

[@junktube4000]

Great video. Can you wrest your wrists on this easel? I'm interested in making an easel for drawing not painting.

[@WillJBailey]

You could, but the bottom piece is a bit big for a wrist wrest really. I'd probably design it differently if it was just for that.

[@jamesbutler5995]

I live in Fl.USA and am wanting to construct an Gurney Easel can you tell me what you call the two pieces of boards that you joined together using the henges please??Thank you for your time.

[@Frank_Nemo]

Exterior grade plywood.

[@rogueskypilot4116]

You can also by 2 cheap wooden cutting boards(or thrift it for extra style.)

[@paulfogarty7724]

Fantastic presentation ! For plastic palettes I usually just keep mixing on them...before you know it the beading goes away by itself ( like a headache ) and you'll forget it was even a problem. I avoid scouring as this makes any staining even worse. I also found every palette stains - even enamelled metal - with the exception of ceramic. Does'nt bother me though. I was thinking of getting one of those Liz Dekan paint boxes. They have a great reputation and made in England.

[@WillJBailey]

Thanks Paul! Yeah the Liz Deakin palette is great for plein air, I don’t worry about staining or anything now. I use ceramic in the studio though for watercolour and gouache, and glass for oils, you can’t beat it.

[@user-vy2fm9dh5e]

I just know I bought James Gurneymany years ago after you mentioned the book "colour and light"

[@WillJBailey]

He’s an amazing educator. His books and his blog are brilliant

[@GGlovescj]

I’ll make a suggestion to people looking to make this . If you know a carpenter ask them if they have scraps . My husband is a carpenter and he always has this type of wood in small pieces like this . He said he’d charge someone $5 dollars for this job . So my point is to ask a local carpenter to do all these cuts it prob won’t be much money . Just a suggestion 👍🏼

[@WillJBailey]

Thanks Margaret! You're quite right. This was my very first video - I would've done it slightly differently now, and included more budget options. I have put an update in the notes though 😊

[@marymcandrew7667]

I'm not familiar with these hinges, are you saying you use an allenwrench to tighten them into the position or angle you want? Thanks!

[@WillJBailey]

Hi Mary. These types of hinges are friction-tightened. Using an allen key you can make them loose through to stiff. I have mine quite stiff, so when opened, with palette and water on it, it stays in place. You don’t need to carry a key around with you.

[@victorstorm1325]

Great stuff. Tip: If you bring your camera further away when talking to it, and then zoom in to match framing, it is harder to notice that you are reading from a teleprompter. Keep up the good work.

[@ezequielruiz2488]

Thank you

[@WillJBailey]

😊

[@gwenhutson]

This tripod is now much more expensive $99? As of Aug 2021

[@2010mikelin]

hop do you cling an umbrella on it so as not to have sun ?

[@WillJBailey]

Hi! Sorry, I don't use one for mine, so I haven't made one, but if you want an umbrella to cover you and the easel, you could try using a photography lighting stand with umbrella attachment like this: www.amazon.co.uk/Neewer-centimeters-Adjustable-Photographic-Reflectors/dp/B0732VF22Z/ref=pd_bxgy_img_2/262-2182066-3654512?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0732VF22Z&pd_rd_r=b20f00d2-44d0-4177-923b-accfa89a123c&pd_rd_w=SWYAc&pd_rd_wg=dIR2P&pf_rd_p=dcf35746-0212-418b-a148-30395d107b2d&pf_rd_r=D919NR5XPPYBYP49GJDW&psc=1&refRID=D919NR5XPPYBYP49GJDW www.amazon.co.uk/Neewer®-Aluminum-Umbrella-Holder-Bracket/dp/B007H4H7V2/ref=sr_1_8?dchild=1&keywords=Calumet+Umbrella+Adapter+with+Hot+Shoe&qid=1604663703&s=electronics&sr=1-8 www.amazon.co.uk/Professional-Translucent-Reflector-Umbrella-Photography/dp/B005M064US/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=neewer+photography+umbrella&qid=1604664091&s=electronics&sr=1-3 Alternatively you could make a small fabric panel to cover just the sketchbook, like James Gurney does here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5aVYYp3mMiggJo Some alternatives here: gurneyjourney.blogspot.com/2014/11/your-diy-pochade-easel-designs.html And you might find some good ideas here: facebook.com/groups/403006076777641

[@marionsutcliffe1119]

James Gurney has described a few diy sunshade options on his KZbin channel.

[@Itsall897]

you could

[@thecrunch7754]

Gurney is going to be fuming. His website charges for the construction video 😅

[@salskars6637]

"Tear down that pay-wall Mr. Gurney."

[@b3n3d1ct10n]

I don't think so - he is very generous with his information, and encourages people to go on the Sketch Easel Builders facebook page.

[@thonglinh90]

What is the dimension of the wood plate?

[@WillJBailey]

Mine's A4

[@normg2242]

That's roughly "letter" size in american.

[@viviondioline]

Yours looks better than James'. Nice work

[@WillJBailey]

Thanks!