Versatile, aesthetic, and essential for every art studio.

INTRODUCTION

Rolling art carts are one of the most functional and aesthetic tools any artist can own. They organize your supplies beautifully, move wherever you’re working, and save precious desk or shelf space — especially in small studios.

Whether you’re a watercolor artist, marker enthusiast, mixed-media creator, or digital illustrator who still loves traditional tools, a rolling cart transforms your workflow instantly.

In this 2026 guide, we’re breaking down the best rolling art carts, including IKEA classics, IRIS carts, slim carts for tiny rooms, and premium options that double as decor.

Why Rolling Art Carts Are Essential for Artists

Rolling carts elevate your studio in six powerful ways:

✔ Portability

Move your supplies to your desk, easel, worktable, or sofa.

✔ Vertical storage

Three tiers = lots of space, small footprint.

✔ Organization

Perfect for grouping supplies by medium.

✔ Aesthetic

Cart styling makes your workspace instantly Pinterest-worthy.

✔ Saves desk space

Keeps essentials nearby without cluttering your tabletop.

✔ Affordable

Most carts are under $60 — incredibly budget-friendly.

The Best Rolling Art Carts for Artists (2026 Full Guide)

Here are the top carts based on use, style, storage needs, and studio size.

1. IKEA RÅSKOG Cart (The Iconic Artist Cart)

Best for: watercolorists, ink artists, planners, mixed-media creators.

Why it’s iconic:

• sturdy steel frame
• deep baskets
• beautiful colors
• easily customizable
• holds a surprising amount of weight

Perfect for storing:

• watercolor pans
• brushes
• markers
• pens
• palettes
• small sketchbooks
• adhesives

This is the most recommended artist cart in the world.

2. IRIS 3-Tier Rolling Cart (Lightweight + Aesthetic)

The IRIS version is often more lightweight and modern.

Great for:

• pastel storage
• pencils
• stickers
• small sketchbooks
• craft organization

Comes in pretty soft neutrals that fit your feminine art studio aesthetic.

3. Slim Rolling Cart (Perfect for Small Spaces)

When your studio is tight, a slim cart is a game changer.

Benefits:

• fits beside or under desks
• narrow footprint
• ideal for tiny studios
• visually lightweight

Perfect for:

• pencils + markers
• brushes
• tubes of paint
• desk overflow

4. Wide Rolling Cart (Extra Storage for Mixed Media)

Choose this style if you need more surface area and deeper baskets.

Great for:

• acrylic paints
• gouache tubes
• large sketchbooks
• fabric, yarn, or larger craft tools
• mixed-media stations

This is the best option for storing heavy or bulky supplies.

5. Clear Acrylic Rolling Cart (Minimalist + Chic)

Acrylic carts look airy, modern, and beautifully aesthetic.

Best for:

• digital artists
• minimalists
• creators who want an elevated studio look

These pair perfectly with:

• acrylic organizers
• neutral palettes
• soft lighting
• Scandinavian-inspired studios

6. Wood + Metal Hybrid Cart (Warm + Functional)

This option blends warmth and durability.

Perfect for artists who want:

• a more natural aesthetic
• a farmhouse-modern vibe
• a warm neutral palette

Great for storing:

• canvases
• markers
• carving tools
• traditional drawing supplies

7. Rolling Drawer Cart (Hidden Storage + Mobility)

This cart feels more like a mobile storage cabinet.

Best for:

• artists who want supplies hidden
• watercolorists with bottles and pans
• craft rooms needing clear categorized drawers

A great choice if you love a clean, minimal surface.

Best Ways to Use a Rolling Cart in Your Art Studio

✔ 1. Create a color-coded marker station

Organize by warm tones, cool tones, neutrals.

✔ 2. Build a watercolor or gouache cart

Top tier: palettes
Middle: brushes
Bottom: paper + sketchbooks

✔ 3. Turn it into a mixed-media cart

Include glue, acrylic mediums, cutting tools, and journals.

✔ 4. Use as a filming / content cart

Store tripods, lighting, chargers, microphones.

✔ 5. Design a “daily tools” cart

Everything you reach for: pencils, erasers, brushes, tape.

✔ 6. Make it your mobile workstation

Roll it next to your worktable or desk when needed.

What to Store on Each Tier (Pro-Level Organization)

Top Tier (Daily Essentials):

• pencils
• erasers
• markers
• brushes
• palettes
• scissors

Middle Tier (Medium Tools):

• watercolor pans
• acrylic tubes
• adhesives
• sketchbooks
• cutting mats
• ink bottles

Bottom Tier (Heavy Items):

• paper pads
• journals
• canvases
• mediums
• extra supplies

This structure keeps weight distributed and workflow smooth.

Aesthetic Styling Ideas for Your Rolling Cart

Make your cart Pinterest-worthy with:

✔ matching jars

✔ bamboo or acrylic bins

✔ coordinated color palette

✔ labeled containers

✔ small plant or dried florals

✔ soft lighting nearby

Your rolling cart becomes functional and decor.

Best Cart + Desk Pairings (Monetization-Friendly)

Pairing 1: Minimalist Digital Artist

• acrylic rolling cart
• white or oak desk
• LED lamp
• neutral organizers

Pairing 2: Mixed-Media Creator

• wide steel cart
• counter-height worktable
• pegboard
• deep drawer unit

Pairing 3: Small-Space Artist

• slim rolling cart
• compact desk (30″–40″)
• floating shelves
• wall-mounted pegboard

Related Art Studio Furniture Guides:

• Art Studio Worktable Ideas
• Best Storage Desks for Artists
• Best L-Shaped Desks for Creative Work
• Best Standing Desks for Artists
• Best Shelves for Art Studios
• Affordable Art Studio Furniture on Amazon
• Small Art Studio Organization Ideas
• Aesthetic Art Supply Storage Ideas