The PAK - Documentation

Directions for Use & Cleaning

SET UP

1. Take the quick release plate from the head of the tripod and connect the screw to the threaded hole in the exterior lid of The PAK (A). Tighten with a screw driver.

2. Set up your tripod, extending the legs fully and using the crank arm, raise the center column (B) to chest height. Use the pan arm (C) of the tripod to tilt the head towards you at a 45 degree angle.

3. Separate the top and bottom of The PAK.. Hook the arms on the bottom of The PAK around two legs (E) of the tripod and slide into place.

4. Hold the top half of The PAK with the ledge (F) facing towards you and on the bottom edge of the lid. Connect the quick release plate on the back of the lid (A) to the head of the tripod and latch in place. Adjust the pan arm (C) to the desired angle. Adjust the center column to desired height (B).

5. Slide out the side tray of The PAK (G) and insert brushes and other accessories. Note the tray can be removed and rotated 180 degrees for an alternate configuration. The tray can also be rotated and extended on the left-hand side of the palette area as desired.

6. Slide the panel clips (H) to the outside edge (or remove) so they don’t interfere with your panel or canvas.

BREAK DOWN

1. Scrape or wipe down your palette area (I).

2. Remove your brushes, palette knife, water cup, etc. from the tray (G) and slide it back in

3. If you’re transporting your wet panel in The PAK, move the panel clips (H) to either side of your surface and tighten the knobs (J) in the back to secure your work.

4. Release the lever on the tripod quick release plate and remove the lid from the tripod. Line up the ledge of the lid with the open area on the base and allow the magnets to pull the lid securely into place.

5. Lift The PAK off the tripod legs (E)) and collapse your tripod.

CLEANING & STORAGE

Acrylics: the removable palette area can be cleaned with soap and water if your paint is still wet. For dry paint, a glass scraper can be used gently. Please be aware that this may cause scratches on the surface. Alternatively, you can use a piece of palette paper taped on top of the palette.

Oils: the removable palette area can be wiped down with a paper towel after your session. Then use a small amount of Gamsol or similar solvent on a clean paper towel to remove remaining paint residue. For dry paint, a glass scraper can be used gently. Please be aware that this may cause scratches on the surface. Alternatively, you can use a piece of palette paper taped on top of the palette.

You may get paint on your PAK during the normal course of use. If you choose, you can use a mild solvent with a gentle cloth to remove before the pigment has dried. For dirt, dust, mud or other grime, use water and a gentle cloth to clean.Store your PAK in a cool, dry area when not in use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Watercolors: When setting up your tripod, raise the center column to a comfortable height. Use the pan arm of the tripod to tilt the head towards you at a 90 degree angle to create a flat surface for your paper or pad. Adjust the sliding tray to utilize the water cup side.
Acrylics or gouache: Set up following the standard instructions. Adjust the sliding tray to utilize the water cup side. Consider using palette paper on the mixing area to avoid dried paint on the acrylic surface
Oils: Set up following the standard instructions. Adjust the sliding tray to utilize the magnet side for a convenient palette knife holder.

Acrylics: The removable palette area can be cleaned with soap and water if your paint is still wet. For dry paint, a glass scraper can be used gently. Please be aware that this may cause scratches on the surface. Alternatively, you can use a piece of palette paper taped on top of the palette.
Oils: The removable palette area can be wiped down with a paper towel after your session. Then use a small amount of Gamsol or similar solvent on a clean paper towel to remove remaining paint residue. For dry paint, a glass scraper can be used gently. Please be aware that this may cause scratches on the surface. Alternatively, you can use a piece of palette paper taped on top of the palette.
Other pigments: Wipe down the palette surface. Remove the acrylic panel and clean as directed based on the type of pigment being used.
You may get paint on your PAK during the normal course of use. If you choose, you can use a mild solvent with a gentle cloth to remove before the pigment has dried. For dirt, dust, mud or other grime, use water and a gentle cloth to clean.

Some photos of The PAK feature a paint garage called the Box N Paint. This is a separate product available for purchase directly from the manufacturer. The PAK will accommodate the “Medium” size Box N Paint tray.

Yes, the slide out tray on The PAK can be flipped and extended on the left hand side of the easel to accommodate left-handed users.

You can use most commercially available tripods with The PAK. You will want to ensure that your tripod has a center column that can be raised and lowered. Your tripod should also have an articulating head with a quick release plate that uses a standard 1/4x20 screw.
The recommended tripod is the SLIK U8000 Tripod

Yes, you can transport wet panels from 5x5" up to 8x10" and ranging from 0.125" to 0.75"

Read the directions and watch the video here

Add an umbrella to keep your painting shaded, use a clip on Sport-Brella Versa-Brella
To make your tripod easier to transport, use a tripod carrying strap

We are unable to accept returns on used equipment. For additional information about returns and refunds, read the policy here.

Please email pakpleinair@gmail.com for direction on processing your return and refund.

Your order will ship within 2 business days of purchase. Once your order has shipped, you will receive an email with further information. Delivery times vary depending on your location.

The PAK is designed and manufactured in North Carolina.