Last Updated on August 15, 2018 by Marie Bautista
Different art projects require different types of art brushes. Sometimes, the art piece you are working on requires a custom brush. Specialty paintbrushes, for example, are available with bent angles, pointed flats and extra long detailers. These brushes can help you achieve a specific feat that others cannot, so they become a worthwhile investment.
Here are three things to consider when you are in the market for new art brushes.
Materials
Some brushes work better with specific paints. If you are painting with watercolors, a brush made from sable or nylon is recommended. Oil painting brushes are often made from sable or bristle, and for acrylic paints, consider nylon or synthetic brush. The material a brush is made from determines how well the paint is transferred onto a canvas. If you are not particularly concerned with being meticulous, then it may not be a selling point. If precision is key, however, the materials become more important.
Shape
Art brushes are available in an array of shapes. Round, flat and sword are some, in addition to mop, fan and liner. Liner brushes are often used to create fine lines while a mop brush may help you cover more space in an organized manner. Ultimately, all brush shapes serve a purpose, and you never know when you may encounter a need for one over another. Shapes are also available in varying thickness, so if you desire a thin and thicker line, there are brushes for that.
Technique
As an artist, your brushes are your tools. For some, their talent allows them to create particular figures. For others, it requires practice. While you work your way to putting your vision onto your masterpiece, brushes that achieve specific patterns exist. Color shapers are useful for blending pastels and pushing paint. Varnishing, decorating and toothbrushes also have their purpose in the art-marking process. Stencil brushes may be overlooked, but come in handy when attempting to create texture.
Whether you are painting for pleasure or work, your brush is your aid. When purchasing, consider their material, shape and technique you will use.