Let me introduce you to my new favorite thing!
During my research for my blog post about plein air supplies, I came across this local artist who makes custom hand-built wet panel carriers and I could not resist.
I have been wanting a high quality carrier for so long, and his prices were exactly within my budget.
Colin Joyce is a painter himself, and his product reflects his knowledge. There are no frills or extra components, just exactly what you need in a low profile, lightweight carrier. As soon as I opened the package and saw the beautifully stained wood grain I fell in love. I lifted it out of the box, and could not believe how light it was!
When empty, it weighs about 2lbs, 12 oz.
The construction feels extremely sturdy with screws holding it together, rather than just wood glue (which I’m sure was also used).
You can order different sizes and carrying capacities. I wanted to have a single carrier that would suit me for long painting trips (just in case) so I went with the double capacity. (“Standard size carriers will take up to 6 panels back to back, whilst the double versions up to 12”)
Mine holds twelve 8x10 panels (back to back).
The slots for the panels allow a tiny bit of wiggle room for my 2.5mm panels when they are back to back. Colin says that the maximum width for panels is 4.5mm if you want them to fit back-to-back. Otherwise if you use thicker panels you will only be able to fit one per slot.
When completely full, it weights about 5 lbs, 15 oz.
The comfortable shoulder strap makes it really easy to carry, and the lid stays securely closed with the buckle.
And after a close inspection from Vader, I am assured that this box will be a wonderful companion for my plein air adventures.
I even love the fabric of the strap that he included. It suits my aesthetic perfectly!
To finish it off, he adds his logo, which seems to be burned into the wood for that hand-made look.
You can check out Colin’s work and order one of these on his website.
I am not sponsored or affiliated with Colin. I only promote products I own and believe to be high quality. I wouldn’t use something if I didn’t like it!