BROWSE HOW TOs

How to Select Watercolor Brushes

By eHow Arts & Entertainment Editor

Rate: (5 Ratings)

Watercolor brushes can be expensive, but they are worth the investment. If well cared for, a good brush will last for years.

Flag Article

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Fan Watercolor Paintbrushes
Flat Watercolor Paintbrushes
Round Watercolor Paintbrushes
Watercolor Blocks
Watercolor Brush Cleaners
Watercolor Brush Holders
Watercolor Paints
Watercolor Paper

Step1

Buy brushes that are made specifically for use with watercolors.

Step2

Decide whether to invest in synthetic brushes or brushes made of sable. Generally, synthetic brushes cost less.

Step3

Select two flat brushes. A 3/4-inch and a 1-inch are good brush sizes to start with.

Step4

Select three round brushes. A number 3, 6 and 10 will meet most of your painting needs.

Step5

Make sure round brushes have a fine point.

Step6

Buy the best brushes you can afford.

Tips & Warnings

Flat brushes are labeled according to the width of the brush end. Round brushes are labeled with a number - the smaller the number, the finer the brush. The brush size is written on the handle.
It is best to have a brush collection that includes both synthetic and sable brushes.
Experiment with various brushes. Some useful types are riggers (for fine details), fan brushes (for creating special effects), and wash brushes (for covering large areas).
The size of your painting will determine the size of brush you need.
After using brushes, wash them in lukewarm water and brush cleaner or soap (not detergent). Reshape the brush tips and store them in a brush holder. (See "How to Care for Watercolor Brushes" under Related eHows.)
Use watercolor brushes only with watercolor paints.

Who Can Help:

Find Decorators & Designers Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.

Comments

Olorin said

Flag This Comment

on 5/8/2007 You should never store your brushes with the hairs upright. While it's easier just to put them in a jar the colours and left over water will go down into the base of the hairs, over time deteriorating them. There are some great holders out there, the Chinese especially have some charming ones.

As far as the points of brushes go. Don't mess about with toilet paper! After you was the brushes they will obviously still be damp so with your fingers shape the hairs to a point.

Anonymous said

Flag This Comment

on 11/22/2005 I store my brushes in a Pringles chip can with the lid removed. That way, the brushes are together, and they can dry without bending the tips. When I'm using the brushes, I store them upright in a glass jar. When soaking brushes, do it only for a minute or two, and always make sure to let them dry tip up, or you'll have "C" shaped bristles (those are very annoying to fix)! If a brush has lost its shape, dip it in water, wrap it with toilet paper and let it dry tip up. The toilet paper constricts as it dries, forcing the bristles into shape.