Miniature art is demanding. You need a steady hand to work properly and tools that hold your work surface in place. There are a range of options when selecting an easel for working at the miniature scale. Depending on your level of commitment, or how many miniatures you anticipate painting, you may want to invest in a better option or find a way to go with what you have.
Regular Easel
A regular easel can work for miniatures, especially if it is adjustable. You need to be able to reach the miniature easily from the position you typically work from. If you work seated, the ledge of the easel must go low enough that you can get at the miniature from all necessary angles. This is a good option for a one-time job, or if you already have an easel and don't want to spend more on another tool.
Tabletop Easel
Tabletop easels are inexpensive. They are also small. This means you can use them in tight spaces or on a part of a work table. The other benefit is that with a tabletop easel, you can rest your elbows on the table. This improves stability. This is a good option for a low price. If you need to work on a three-dimensional miniature, the tabletop easel workable; however, there are even better options if you have a larger budget.
Third Hand
A third hand is a kind of vise. It attaches to the table or rests on the table if the base is heavy enough. The vise has an adjustable arm that holds the pincers. The pincers grip the miniature. The arm is adjustable in many directions. With the third arm, you may rest your arms on the table and also move the miniature to almost any position. It's the best option, but a bit more pricey.
Working Without an Easel
For no investment at all, you can work on a table. Laying the miniature on a piece of newspaper or plastic means you need no further equipment. Bending over the piece can be tiring, though. In addition, you may need to wait for sections of three-dimensional pieces to dry before working on the other side of them.
