Pull out the tri-fold legs of an art easel until they fasten automatically into position. Most easels are designed with three legs for easy collapsing and transporting. An average easel weighs between 5 and 10 pounds.
Tighten leg wing nuts if an automatic locking mechanism is not in place. Turn the wing nuts in a clockwise motion to tighten.
Extend the legs up or down with the use of adjustable leg clamps. Unsnap leg clamps and raise or lower the height of the easel as necessary. Snap leg clamps shut to hold all leg positions and height in place.
Fold the shelf platform down until it automatically snaps into place. Tighten the wing nut if the platform does not automatically snap into place. Turn the wing nuts in a clockwise motion to tighten. The platform is supported by two shelf brackets. Place your paint supplies onto the platform. An average platform is 24-inches in diameter and hold 5 to 10 pounds of material.
Clip a canvas into place using the prefabricated clasps on the front of the easel. All easels come with a top clasp, while some offer both top and bottom clasps.