Acrylic Brushes

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What kind of brushes work best when using acrylic paints?

    Both natural and synthetic bristles can be used with acrylics, depending on the artist's preference. But, acrylics, being alkaline in nature, can be hard on natural hair brushes.

    The brushes must be kept clean. If acrylic paint dries in a brush it is very hard to get out without using strong solvents that might damage the brush. Clean brushes promptly by washing them with warm water and mild soap when finished painting.

    What is the difference between artist and student grade acrylics?

    Fine artists acrylics use high quality, finely ground and milled pigments, chosen for lightfastness and clarity of color as well as mixing qualities. They also have more resin solids.

    Student acrylics use pre-milled pigment dispersions, where most colors are mixed or blended rather than used pure in an acrylic binder. Pigment concentrations are lower, and fillers are used.

  • What are the differences between brush shapes?

  • How do I choose between Long Handle and Short Handle brushes?

    Long handled brushes are recommended for easel style painting giving the artist additional length to stand back from the canvas. Short handled brushes are often used for table-top painting where the artwork is closer to the artist, and lies flat, such as with watercolor painting. Either type of handle that is most comfortable to the artist can be used.

  • What are the differences between brushes

    Free Brush Charts Download our free brush charts in pdf format.

    Brush Hair Types Brush Shapes and Usage Brush Size and Measuring

    Brush ShapeFiberDescription
    Angular Brush-testBristle, SyntheticFlat ferrule, short-length hairs, set with longer hairs at one end. Useful for precise strokes, and for lines and curves, with thick or heavy color.
    Media - watercolor, acrylic, decorative
    Brush ShapeFiberDescription
    Brightsable, synthetic, mongoose, bristle, badger, syntheticFlat ferrule, short-length hairs, set with longer hairs at one end. Useful for precise strokes, and for lines and curves, with thick or heavy color.
    Media - oil, acrylic, decorative