Bill Groot's Handmade Lap Easel Brings Portable Studio Support to the Colossal Shop
Chicago-based maker and designer Bill Groot produces handmade Lap Easels in small batches, using birch plywood together with select solid maple, birch, cherry, and other native hardwoods. The device functions as a portable, adjustable support that rests comfortably on a lap or tabletop. Groot positions it for a range of creative and everyday activities, including drawing, painting, reading books and magazines, writing, using a screen, and holding a cookbook. Its construction is described as both strong and lightweight, and it offers five angled height settings intended to reduce fatigue in the hands and neck. A body compartment provides storage for basic supplies. The Lap Easel is available for order through the Colossal Shop. Photography of the product is credited to Craig Shimala.
Key facts
- Bill Groot is a Chicago-based maker and designer
- The Lap Easel is handmade in small batches
- Materials include birch plywood and select solid maple, birch, cherry, and other native hardwoods
- The easel is a portable, adjustable support for lap or tabletop use
- It has five angled height settings to reduce hand and neck fatigue
- A body compartment holds basic supplies
- Intended uses include drawing, painting, reading, writing, screen use, and holding a cookbook
- It can be ordered from the Colossal Shop
- Product images are by Craig Shimala
Entities
Artists
- Bill Groot
- Craig Shimala
Institutions
- Colossal Shop
Locations
- Chicago
- United States