How to make a portable art easel

2 cardboard rectangles (20 x 27 in. for a big easel)
1 cardboard strip (18 x 2 in.)
1 cardboard pocket piece (8 x 14 in.)
2 pieces parachute cord or thick string (24 in. each)
Duct tape
Scissors
Utility knife
Small screwdriver or pointed instrument (like a knitting needle)

Tape the short ends of the large rectangles together. Leave a small gap between the pieces or it will not have room to bend. Flip it over and tape the other side. Test out your bend.

Tape the long cardboard strip to your easel along its top and sides, leaving the bottom edge open. This edge will hold the paper in place when your little artist is painting.

You can add a pocket on the back of the easel for storage. Duct-tape along three of the edges, leaving the top open.

Poke holes in the bottom corners of both cardboard pieces, wiggling the screwdriver around to make sure the holes are big enough for the parachute cord. Thread the cord through the holes and knot both ends. Repeat on the other side.

Tip: The cord keeps your easel from slipping and can also be used to tie it together for compact storage.

Your art easel is ready for your mini Monet to get painting.

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