The
selection of right type of hair is the most important aspect of crafting
brushes. Depending on the purpose, quality and price, various types of
hair are used. Generally animal hair is used, but in recent years the
use of synthetic hair has been increasing. On the one hand because the
quality of synthetic hair is constantly improving, on the other hand
because it is often more attractive in price terms.
However despite the improvement in quality, animal hair remains
superior in almost all cases because of its better water and paint
absorption. This has the advantage of making painting more easy and
enjoyable because the brush retains the paint for longer. The various
series of hair used, all have their special qualities. This gives each
brush its own unique individual character. So that it often depends on
one's own aims and requirements what brush is most suitable.
Click here for Hair Types
Browse brushes by hair types:
Brushes
used for acrylics have long handles that allow the artist to work at a
distance from the canvas. Acrylic paints are more caustic than oils, so
acrylic brushes are designed with synthetics and bristle. Acrylic
brushes are usable in other mediums, particularly oils, while brushes
designed specifically for oil painting and watercolors are unsuitable
for acrylics. Artists can very effectively use glazing and layering
techniques when using acrylic brushes.
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. Those made with high
quality synthetics have excellent durability and offers excellent
stiffness, snap and hair shape retention for maximum control. 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. Brushes are cleaned promptly by washing them with warm water and
mild soap when finished painting.
