Q: I've just started working with oil and would like to know
the best method for transporting wet canvases (or canvas boards, in my
case) to and from class.
A: There are a few products on
the market designed to help transport wet canvases and canvas boards.
Starting with the least expensive choice: Masterson makes a 12" x 16"
plastic box, about two inches deep, that will seal your small artwork
and protect your car while you’re in transit. Testrite makes two
wet-canvas carriers for 24" and 36" high canvases ($28.69 and 37.69,
respectively). These are designed for stretched canvases, but can
accommodate stacked boards as well. Your next choice is a table-top
sketchbox easel, which is great. It has a drawer for your paints,
brushes, and palette, and the attached easel holds your canvas board or
stretched canvas in place. The easel sits upright when you’re working,
then lies flat, still holding your work in place, when being
transported. Prices for table-top sketchbox easels will range from
$29.99 to $150.
--by Camille LaPointe-Lyons