Kolinsky
is a type of mink, which is a member of the weasel family. It is native
to Siberia and northeastern China, where the cold weather allows the
animal to grow a thick, long coat. Only hairs from the tail are used in
making artists' brushes, while the rest are used by other industries.
The finest Kolinsky brushes are not recommended for use in oil paints,
because the harsh qualities of oils will damage these brushes.
The male Kolinksy tail hair is used in making the finest Kolinksy
brushes because of its superior quality. Female Kolinsky hair has less
life compared to male hair. The very finest watercolor brushes are made
from 100% male Kolinsky hair, but most Kolinsky brushes are made with a
60% female to 40% male mixture. The best brushes will spring or snap
back straight after bending, while the brushes made of mixtures will
hold a slight bend. No brush compares with the Kolinsky for control and
resilience; it is the ultimate in artist brushes.
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.
