If you are new to oil painting, you are probably overwhelmed by the choices you have when it comes to oil painting brushes. They come in all shapes and sizes from round to square, thin to fat, long to short. But which ones do you need to get started? Here are some tips for buying a good set of brushes that will last you for years without you spending too much money.
- Buy a few top quality brushes rather than lots of inexpensive ones. They will last much longer if you look after them well, and they will help you to better realize your painting potential. Use the best hog hair bristle where you want brushstrokes to show, and red sable brushes for finer detail work.
- If you can only afford a few different sizes, these offer the best range:
a rigger brush for painting minute details
a few filbert brushes for filling in large masses – get sizes 2, 4, 6, and 8 (and larger if you want to paint big canvases!)
a fan brush for blending and textural effects - Clean your oil painting brushes well after you use them. If you leave any oil paint in the bristles it will eventually harden and dry out the bristles and your brush will be useless. Wipe them off at the end of the day and wash them in turpentine or mineral spirits.
- Store your oil painting brushes so they do not get damaged. Lay them flat or keep them in a jar with the bristles pointed upwards. This prevents the hairs from bending, and also allows air around them. If they are feeling dry, rub a little hair conditioner into the bristles to moisten them again.