Linda, armed with an unexpected Dick Blick gift certificate this past Christmas plus a 40% off sale coupon, I gave into temptation on the Winsor Newton Cotman Field Bag set. I basically like it but might gerry-rig the straps eventually (add some more black webbing) so that they’re longer, put the straps around my neck so I could stand while sketching, too. 

What I like about it is its light weight and compact size, but not TOO small. It fits in a shoulder bag and goes anywhere. You can upgrade the paints in the half-pans once those are empty. 

I added a couple of water brushes, a 1.5” flat, a sponge and a clickie pencil. Someone else might add a drawing pen. It fits a good variety of premade journals. 

What I don’t like about the wooden boxes is their bulk and weight. If they can double as easels though, that’s nice. I like Jennifer’s suggestion - that brand is new to me, had to look it up. : ) 

Might it be wise to have someone discreetly inquire as to what they might already have and/or want? : )

That Sienna Plein Aire box looks lovely though, especially with the additional tripod (or is it compatible with a regular photographer’s tripod?)

Did you see this setup from the artist at Handprint.com? http://www.handprint.com/HP/WCL/tech33.html

Kathy G

On Jul 21, 2016, at 12:04 PM, Linda Feltner <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

Hi All:

I have a friend looking for a Pochade Box or travel kit suitable for a Retirement Gift (for a mutual friend). 

Can you offer any suggestions?

The Retiree is an artist, multi media but probably watercolor. I do not think she is interested in building her own box from scratch. (although I know there are some cool setups out there that you have built). 

I am looking at Dick Blick's Craftech Sienna Plein Aire boxes, and Guerrilla Painter .   I'm not sure the price range she wants, but I don't think she needs to get all the accessories shown in the advertisements. A well-built small travel/plein aire box would be the goal.

Any other companies? Styles? better manufacturers? 

THANKS! 

Linda

___________________________

Linda M. Feltner Artist, LLC

Guild of Natural Science Illustrators, President

(520) 803-0538

www.lindafeltner.com

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