Parts of a Paint Brush
​Understanding the anatomy helps you choose and care for brushes better:
  • Handle: Usually wood or plastic; length varies depending on purpose.
  • Ferrule: The metal band that holds bristles to the handle.
  • Bristles (or Filaments): The part that applies the paint; natural or synthetic.
🧵 Types of Bristles (Bristle Material)
A. Natural Bristles
  • Made from animal hair (hog, sable, squirrel, etc.)
  • Hold more paint; softer and more flexible
  • Best for oil-based paints, varnishes, and traditional art
  • Not ideal for water-based media (they swell and degrade)
B. Synthetic Bristles
  • Made from nylon, polyester, or blends
  • Suitable for water-based and acrylic paints
  • More durable; resist wear and tear
  • Can mimic natural bristle softness or stiffness depending on build
Brush Sizes
  • Sizes range from 000 (very fine) to 12+ (large)
  • Fine sizes for details (portraits, miniatures)
  • Large sizes for washes, coverage, or backgrounds
Tip: A good starter set includes a medium flat, a round, and a detail brush.

​🧼 How to Clean and Care for Brushes Proper care extends brush life significantly:
Cleaning
  • Water-based paint: Rinse with warm water and mild soap
  • Oil-based paint: Use a suitable solvent (e.g., mineral spirits)
  • Reshape bristles before drying
  • Dry horizontally or hanging, never upright when wet
Storage
  • Keep dry and clean
  • Store with bristles protected—preferably upright after drying
  • Don’t leave in water or solvent for long periods
💡 Tips for Choosing the Right Brush
  • Match brush stiffness to your medium (soft for watercolor, stiff for acrylic/oil)
  • Test stroke if possible—check paint load and release
  • Choose shape based on the type of stroke or area you're working on
  • Long handles for easel work (stand-back painting), short handles for detail work
​
🔄 Brush AlternativesFor unique effects, consider:
  • Sponges
  • Palette knives
  • Fingers (for blending)
  • Rags, toothbrushes (splatter), or combs (texture)

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
  • Leaving brushes in water/solvent—warps handle and bristles
  • Using the same brush for different mediums without cleaning
  • Not cleaning immediately after use
  • Using poor-quality brushes for detailed work

  •