
Handcrafted Art Panels for Inspired Creators
Handcrafted panels made by artist Tom applegate, for artists who care about their materials .
Join fellow painters who trust Sierra Art Panels.
Why Artist Choose Sierra Art Panels
"These are the best panels I have ever used!
And now the only ones." Sandra J. Schultz
Real Artists, Real Results.

Tom Applegate
Sandra J, Schultz
Sandra j. Schultz
"These are the best panels I have ever used!
And now the only ones." Sandra J. Schultz
Explore Panels
While these panels are always available in stock or custom made, I also offer unique, limited-run designs and one-of-a-kind panels for artists looking for something special. Every panel is crafted with care and built for quality, so whether you're after a tried-and-true favorite or something truly unique, you'll find the perfect surface to bring your vision to life.
Alpine Studio and Plein Air Panels
These studio or plein air panels are crafted from 1/4 inch high-quality hardwood plywood and are engineered for stable and lightweight performance. The panels are made from 100% sustainably grown hardwood and are prepared with an oil primed linen painting surface. The back and sides are pre-sealed.
Designed for plein air or studio painting, these panels provide the perfect balance of durability and versatility, making them an excellent choice for artists who need a reliable and portable painting surface.
Starlight Plein Air and Studio Panels
These plein air panels are crafted from high-quality luan hardwood plywood and are engineered for strength, rigidity, and lightweight performance. Two 1/8-inch layers are laminated together, forming a sturdy 7-ply, 1/4-inch thick panel that offers exceptional stability without added weight.
Designed specifically for plein air painting, these panels provide the perfect balance of durability and versatility, making them an excellent choice for artists who need a reliable and portable painting surface.
Summit Cradled Panels
For larger panels, a cradled structure with a cross brace is used to enhance strength and prevent warping. While various woods and materials can be incorporated, these panels primarily feature a birch face with a Douglas fir cradle for optimal stability.
Each panel is pre-sealed for durability: the back is treated with a natural oil-based sealer, while the sides and front are finished with a marine-grade, non-toxic, water-based penetrating sealer.
Small Batch an One Off Panels
At Sierra Art Panels, I also create small-batch and one-off panels that go beyond the standard line, offering artists truly unique surfaces to work on. These panels are crafted from a variety of materials, including traditional woods as well as advanced composites like carbon fiber and fiberglass. Some are experimental R&D panels, designed to push the boundaries of what an art surface can be, blending strength, innovation, and craftsmanship. Each one is carefully made by hand, giving artists the opportunity to paint on something rare and distinctive.
Sierra Hollow Panels
These semi-hollow panels offer the perfect balance of strength and lightweight construction. Measuring 3/8 inches thick, they are crafted from high-quality Luan hardwood plywood. Larger sizes feature a structural foam core for added stability without unnecessary weight.
Each panel is pre-sealed to protect against environmental moisture and painting mediums. One side is treated with an oil-based sealer, while the other is finished with a non-toxic, water-based sealer, ensuring durability and long-term performance.

Handcrafted Art Panels for Inspired Creators
Art panels made by artist Tom Applegate, for artists who enjoy working on the best.