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Tips for Choosing the Right Paint Brush

Author: Lily

Oct. 28, 2024

54 0 0

Tips for Choosing the Right Paint Brush

Cohwa are exported all over the world and different industries with quality first. Our belief is to provide our customers with more and better high value-added products. Let's create a better future together.

First, and foremost, the better the quality of applicator tool - the easier the painting and the better the results. A quality brush will hold more paint, control dripping and spattering and apply paint more smoothly with minimal brush marks. A quality brush will give a long even release of paint, and the advantage, especially to a professional painter, of cut-ability (the ability to quickly and precisely strike a straight edge). Above all, a quality brush has durability which is measured in terms of bristle or filament shape and retention. Lesser quality brushes tend to lose filament shape quickly and lose filaments sooner.

 

Types of Filaments (Bristles):

Synthetic brushes can be used with all paints but are especially recommended for use with waterborne coatings (latex, acrylic). They perform well while painting smooth to rough surfaces and in hot or humid conditions. 

Natural bristled brushes are best used with oil-based paints, shellacs, varnishes, alkyd enamels, oil-based stains and polyurethanes. They are NOT recommended for latex/acrylic/waterborne paints because they will absorb water causing the bristle to become too soft for effective painting. Also, rough surfaces will damage the bristles on a naturally bristled brush. Synthetics last about 5 times longer on average. 

The most important part of the paintbrush is the working end. Performance is based on the engineering of the filament, which is invisible to the naked eye. The filament and how it is finished, or tipped, affects the feel of the brush and the finish the brush leaves. Quality synthetic brushes will have Tapered filaments. This helps paint flow for better coverage. They &#;pump the paint&#; out and down to the surface. It also gives shape to the brush for precise cutting in. If the brush is thick at the base but gets thinner as it comes to the point, then the brush is tapered. An un-tapered brush is thick from base to tip. A tapered brush will outperform an un-tapered brush. 

 

Types of Synthetic Brushes:

Nylon:  Softer synthetic filament. Very durable. Tips very precisely for a smooth finish. Lasts longer but will soften in hot weather or prolonged use.

Chinex:  Maintains stiffness for control. Resists heat/humidity.  Last 7 times longer than a natural bristle. Perfect balance of paint pick and release. Cleans easily.

Nylon/Polyester:  Combines the positive qualities of nylon and polyester filaments. Polyester used in short lengths to add stiffness and control. Nylon used in long lengths for precise tipping and smooth finish. Takes some time to clean. 

Polyester:  Does not absorb water, resists heat and softening. Does not last as long. Can&#;t be precisely tipped and tends to leave brush marks. Difficult to clean.

 

Types of Natural Brushes:

Black China Bristle: Stiffer natural bristled brush, excellent for high productivity. Perfect for alkyd enamels, varnish, brushing-lacquers, paints, and other coatings.

White China Bristle: Slightly thinner and softer than the black China bristle. Recommended for solvent-based stains, varnishes, marine coatings, and urethanes.


Degrees of Filament Stiffness

Many factors determine the type of brush that will provide the best results for the job-the paint being used, the environmental conditions, the surface itself, and user preference. Today&#;s manufacturers are making brushes in various blends, so the user can choose the feel they like the most.

Soft: Great for fine finish painting and interiors. Works best in low humidity and cooler temperatures. Extra flex and smoothness. Recommended for use with clears, stains, lightweight paints, fast-drying coatings.

Firm:  Designed for all-purpose interior/exterior painting. Just the right taper for even coverage. Stable touch with balanced flex. Recommended for use with most paints and primers especially acrylics and enamels. 

Extra Firm:  Durable for exterior use and rough surfaces. Sharp edge performs well in heat and humidity. Solid feel and superior stiffness. Recommended for use with thicker paints and primers especially low voc and other fast drying coatings.


Brush construction also plays a role in determining quality and price. Most professional brushes have wooden handles while consumer brushes typically have plastic handles. The professional handle is nailed in place (not just crimped) so it stays tight and firm under work-a-day conditions. The ferrule (metal band that serves to hold the bristle and handle together) is heavier, and usually non-rusting steel on the professional brushes. Most professional brushes also typically have the longer bristles. Most brushes (consumer and professional) have epoxy settings for the bristles. This is the best way anyone has found to keep the bristles in the brush.

 

Common Handle Styles

Standard:  Most common handle.

Thin rattail: Thinner version of a standard handle for extra control and lighter weight.

Wide Beavertail: Larger, thicker handle allows for a firm grip for good balance with larger brush heads.

Shortcut:  Compact handle for comfort and control especially in tight spaces.

 

Common Ferrules

Stainless Steel:  Professional quality, rust-resistant, very durable to help prevent denting, brushed finish.

Rust-resistant Steel:Professional quality, anti-corrosion, holds filament very securely, matte finish. 

Copper-coated Stainless Steel: Professional quality, rust resistant, bright copper finish for cosmetic appeal.

Brushed Steel: Semi-professional quality, allow coating, rust-resistant (but to a lesser degree), satin finish. 

Brass-plated Steel: Mid-line quality, enamel coating, durable, bright brass finish.

Tin-plated Steel: Economy Quality, bright finish.


 

Choosing the right Brush Size

Angle Sash is the most used brush. The angled end provides added control while edging, especially on vertical surfaces like around windows and doors. They are great for &#;cutting in&#; around trim and into corners. A thin angle sash is narrower and lighter for precise lines and small areas where added precision is necessary. AFlat Sashis designed with a straight end. This is useful when painting baseboards, moldings, or horizontal surfaces.


1&#; to 1.5&#; angle or flat sash: Hobbies and crafts. Window mullions. Tight corners and very detailed areas.

2&#; to 2.5&#; to 3&#; angle sash: Window frames, casings, door moldings, cutting in edges of walls and ceilings.

2&#; to 2.5&#; flat sash: Baseboards, cabinets, furniture, moldings, railings, shutters, gutters.

3&#; to 4&#; flat sash: Exterior siding, masonry, decks, fences, stairs, walls, ceilings, doors.


Tips on Brush Use:

Before starting to paint with a brush, work the bristles back and forth with your fingers to remove any loose bristles or dirt. Prepare the brush for painting by dipping the filaments only halfway into the paint. When the brush is full of paint, tap gently on the sides of the can to release excess paint. This assures maximum pick-up and transfer to the surface. Hold the brush properly by placing your fingers on the ferrule to help steady your hand. The handle should rest comfortably between the thumb and forefinger. Apply paint with the tips of the brush and not the sides. Every so often slap both sides of the brush against an unpainted area to release paint which has accumulated in the top of the brush. This will keep the brush from "fingering". Paint with steady even strokes lifting the brush gradually at the end of the stroke. Don't use the brush to stir the paint - a paint mixing stick does a better job and you don't want the brush to get overloaded with paint. Always clean the brush immediately after use. When storing the brush, avoid standing it on its bristle tips as the weight will cause the edge to bend and curl. If possible, put the brush back into its original package and store the brush hanging up.


Let us look at the features and benefits of the Brushes we carry in our store!

Corona Excalibur (Chinex)

  • Incredibly effective with acrylics, heavy-bodied waterborne, alkyd-modified latex coatings and primers, and all paints.

  • Deep flagg tips created in-house to resemble those of natural China bristles for super smooth paint finishing.

  • Hand formed chisel provides extra sharp, accurate cutting-in and preserves the smooth flagg tips.

  • Stainless steel ferrule.

Corona Cortez/Cool (Nylon/Polyester)

  • Nylon in the top edge for durability.

  • Polyester in the bottom for stiffness retention and extra flex.

  • Deep flagg tips created in-house to resemble those of natural China bristles for super smooth paint finishing.

  • Hand formed chisel provides extra sharp, accurate cutting-in and preserves the smooth flagg tips          

  • Combines the best elements of solid round tapered DuPont&#; Tynex® Nylon and Orel® Polyester filaments for interior and exterior painting.

  • Offers superior paint application in oil and latex paints, inside and outside, winter-spring-summer-or fall.

  • Stainless steel ferrule


Corona Vegas (Nylon)

  • A softer synthetic filament, ideal for applying interior latex, enamels, eggshell, and flat paints.

  •  Deep flagg tips are created in-house to resemble those of natural China bristles for super smooth paint finishing.

  • Specially dyed solid-round-tapered DuPont filaments offer singular paint pick-up and release.

  • Soft, medium, and stiff filaments blended for proper flex and taper as required by the specific brush styles and sizes.

  • Great with water-based clear finishes.

  • Stainless steel ferrule.

Wooster Chinex FTP (Chinex)

  • Extremely durable 100% white DuPont

    &#;

     Chinex

    ®

    , maintains stiffness and control, easy to clean

  • Fuller, softer tip exclusively from Wooster, smooth paint release

  • Stainless steel ferrule


Wooster Alpha (Nylon)

  • Unique synthetic blend featuring Micro Tip

    &#;

    filaments for a fine finish with all paints

  • Firm, full formulation for smooth paint flow and increased production

    If you want to learn more, please visit our website Flat Paint Brush Manufacturer China.

  • Stainless steel ferrule

  • Sealed wood handle


Wooster Lindbeck Ultra/Pro Firm (Nylon/Polyester)

  • Classic firm formulation of purple nylon and sable polyester, a top-seller for more than 15 years, provides exceptional cut-in control

  • Great for all medium-bodied coatings like acrylic paints or latex enamels, warm temperatures indoors or out, and whenever a painter wants a time-saving firm brush

  • Stainless steel ferrule


Wooster Silver Tip (CT Polyester)

  • White & silver CT

    &#;

     (chemically tipped) polyester filaments for excellent leveling and smoothing

  • Very soft and thin filament. Flexible to help eliminate brush marks.

  • Stainless steel ferrule

  • Hardwood handle

Guide to Choosing the Best Paintbrush

Buying a paintbrush seems to be effortless and straightforward, but did you know that the one you choose can impact the final outcome?

A statistic from shows that more than 49% of Americans prefer to do their painting on their own.

If you are one among them, this article is for you. Here&#;s a complete guide to choosing the right paintbrush for your needs.

What Is the Best Paintbrush Currently in the Market?

Not all paintbrushes are created equal.

Some projects needing lacquers or oil-based paints require synthetic bristles. But others like latex-based paint serve better with natural bristles.

The best paint brushes currently in the market are:

  • Presa Premium 5-Piece Set
  • Purdy White Bristle Sprig 3-inch Flat Sash Brush

What Paintbrushes Do Professionals Prefer?

The brushes used by professionals vary depending on the paint, surface area, and projects as well:

  • Oil-based paint: Natural bristle brushes made from China bristle or hog hair
  • Water-based paint such as latex: Synthetic filaments

How Do I Choose a Paintbrush?

The brush you choose for your DIY projects depends on various factors, including:

  • Bristles: Your pick should suit the finish. Natural bristle brushes are best to be used with oil paints however synthetic bristles serve water-based paints better.
  • Size: Go for 1-1/2 inch brush in the case of wood and 2-1/2-inch brush for trim. Choose the right size considering the project. You might need different sizes based on your requirements.
  • Shape: Choose a wide cut for flat surfaces, but for trim or cutting in, an angled works better to control the paint.

What are Paintbrush Sizes?

Paintbrushes vary in size, and the number in the handle indicates the same. The sizes start from 000 and go up to 00, 0, 1, 2, and so on.

The size and width of the brushes also increase with the number. However, this is not consistent across all the brands available in the market.

What are the Best Types of Paint Brush?

Paintbrushes can be:

  • Natural: Animal hair such as hog or badger
  • Synthetic: Nylon, polyester, or nylon polyester blend

What Is the Apt Brush for a Smooth Finish?

Brushes with natural bristles and flagged tips give a smooth finish to your walls. They are best used with different types of oil-based paints such as shellac, top coats, and urethanes.

The stiff nature makes the more viscous paints go easier.

What Types of Brush Are Best for Painting Furniture?

Bristle made from animal hair works best for different types of oil-based paints, varnishes, shellac, and topcoats. Combine it with a round brush for the paint to go smoothly.

What Is the Best Brush for Painting Furniture?

Paintbrushes for furniture should range from 1-inch to 3-inch. These sizes allow you to cover everything from nook and crannies to an entire surface.

Here are the premium quality brushes from top brands in the market:

  • Quality Purdy Dale Angular Trim Brush
  • Quality Wooster Shortcut Angle Sash Paintbrush
  • Quality Bates Paint Brushes &#; 4 Pack

What Is the Appropriate Brush for Cabinets?

For painting cabinets, get angular sash brushes. The angle helps you maintain control even in small spaces. The handle should be either rubber or wood for a good hand grip.

The best paint brushes for cabinets are:

  • Purdy Cub Angle XL
  • Pintar Diamond Pro Angular Sash
  • Nour Tradition Angular Brush
  • Wooster Shortcut Angle Sash Paintbrush

Which Is the Appropriate Paint Brush for Chalk Paint?

A natural bristle paintbrush works the best for chalk paint. However, sometimes your all-purpose brushes also work but then only when in a pinch.

The look you are going for is a hand-painted look that shows off the brush strokes.

  • Chalk paint brushes by Annie Sloan
  • Tatler & Tatum chalk paint & wax brush
  • Brossum large 2-in-1 round chalk & wax brush

Which Brush Can I Use for Trim?

Sash brushes are ideal for trim areas like windows, doors, door frames, gutters, skirting boards, etc. These have a fewer amount of filaments and do not hold much paint.

The handle should be either short or square since they allow for control and precision.

  • Wooster 2 1/2&#; Silver Tips Angle Sash Brush
  • Bates 2-Pack 2 1/2&#; Angle & 3&#; Flat Trim Brush
  • Wooster Shortcut 2-inch Brush

Which Is the Best Brush for Gloss?

You need a thin bristled natural brush for applying gloss on wooden accessories like skirting boards and staircases.

  • Hamilton &#; Glossing Paintbrushes
  • Harris &#; Platinum Paintbrushes

What is the Best Way to Clean Gloss Paint Brushes?

Gloss being oil-based can be challenging to clean. Apply a cleaner or spirit to clean the gloss and finally wash with soap and let dry.

Do not let the gloss dry on the brush at any cost. This can lead to split ends on the tips.

How Do I Choose an Acrylic Paintbrush?

Consider the following when choosing an acrylic brush:

Size: Big brushes for painting larger areas and smaller ones for details.

Material: Choose from a natural or synthetic brush, something that suits your style.

Shape: Every shape delivers a different result. Your shape depends on the effect you are looking for.

What Kind of Brushes Do I Get for Acrylic Painting?

Nylon works the best for acrylic since they provide a smooth stroke compared to its counterpart.

The brushes you are looking for are:

  • Pro-Arte Acrylix Series
  • Winsor & Newton Galeria range
  • Da Vinci Junior range

Can You Use Makeup Brushes for Acrylic Painting?

Yes! You can go for one when working with acrylic. However, there is a lack of sizes and shapes.

What Brush Can I Use for Oil-Based Paints?

China bristles, particularly hog hair ones, work better for oil paints.

Coming to surface areas, white filaments work best on smoother surfaces. On the other hand, black filament suits rougher surfaces.

For an ultra-fine finish, get the ox hair blend.

Can You Use Synthetic Brushes for Oil-Based Paint?

Yes! You can work with them when in a pinch, but most brushes are not tough enough to handle oils.

Which Type of Brush Filament Is Best for Oil-Based Paints and Stains?

Filaments made from animal hair is a good choice for oil paints and stains.

Which Paintbrushes Work for Water-Based Paints?

Synthetic brushes like nylon or polyester work best with these paints. Nylon/polyester blend is the choice of many due to its versatility.

Can You Paint the Walls with a Brush?

Yes! You can paint your wall with a brush. But try not to hold more paint.

  • Dip the tip with a small amount of paint.
  • Instead of long strokes, go for shorter strokes.

What is the Right Brush for a Wall?

The right brush gets you a uniform as well as a high-quality look for your wall. As such, the best paintbrushes in the market are:

  • Wooster Q-2
  • Purdy XL
  • Purdy Clearcut

What Is the Best Size for Cutting In?

A 35mm angled brush works the best for cutting in. It allows for maneuvering into small areas and working with great detail.

What Is the Apt Paintbrush for Latex Paints?

For latex paints, you need:

  • Blend of nylon and polyester for a premium polish. They can last for years and retains their shape for a long time.
  • Polyester: They can hold their shape in all mediums. The paint goes on evenly and smoothly.

Can You Use a China Bristle with Latex Paint?

No. China bristles do not work with latex paints.

However, you can go for modified nylon filaments similar to that of china bristles for latex.

What Paintbrushes to Buy for Beginners?

As a beginner, when you are just starting, brush sets are an ideal pick. You get a wide range of brushes to practice with.

But the compromise you make here is the quality. The good quality brush is found only in individual ones. But as a whole, the price point is not worth it for a beginner.

Why Does My Brush Leave Streaks?

Paint with a soft touch. Pressing down hard causes the brush to fan out, causing streaks.

A thicker brush permits you to apply pressure without fanning.

How Do You Stop Brush Marks When Painting?

Follow the below tips to prevent brush marks when painting:

  • Do not apply pressure. It can cause streaks.
  • Paint the details and then go over.
  • Do not paint over a semi-dry paint.
  • Apply a thin coat. Refill often for an even look.

Are Expensive Paintbrushes Worth the Price?

Though expensive brushes cost you more, they can save more in terms of time and money.

  • They are of top quality and can give you a straight line.
  • They give an even coating.
  • They are without any doubt durable and long-lasting.

Are Purdy Paintbrushes the Best?

Being one of the top brands in the market, its handcrafted brushes are a favorite of many.

  • They are made with superior craftsmanship.
  • They deliver a smooth coat.
  • Comfortable handle to prevent arm fatigue.
  • It can hold more paint.

Purdy Brushes, Are They Worth the Money?

Though higher on the price point, Purdy brushes:

  • Give a high-quality finish.
  • Last longer than the cheap ones.
  • Light and easy to use.

However, buy a Purdy only if you are taking up large projects.

Can a Brush Be Used in Cooking?

Yes! You can use a nylon brush for cooking. They are perfect for applying sauces, glazes, and marinades for baking and grilling.

They are also easier to clean than conventional brushes.

Conclusion

Paintbrushes can either be natural or synthetic. While the former is made of animal hair, the latter comprises nylon or polyester bristles.

The choice of the brush depends on the situation, project, selection of paint, and also the surface.

It is worth spending money on a Purdy or Wooster, especially if you are taking bigger projects. They manufacture some of the best paintbrushes in the world.

Their quality is unmatched so is their price.

If you are looking for some inspiration, here is a link to our painting gallery

For more information, please visit Paint Accessories Manufacturer China.

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