Sumi
brushes were created for the traditional painting techniques of Japan
and the Far East for sumi paintings. Both the techniques and the brushes
have become extremely popular in western countries. Sumi brushes are
generally made of soft, absorbent natural hair and are excellent for
watercolor, ceramic glazing, oriental-style painting and calligraphy.
Sumi brushes have become popular with watercolor artists for detailing
and fine lines.
Perfect for silk painting and other dye painting techniques, Sumi brush
is basically composed of two separate parts. The central core, which
determines the height and basic function of the brush, is made of
relatively stiff hairs gathered to form a tapered point. The outer
wrapping consists of softer hairs which are selected for their greater
water-holding capacity and for facilitating smooth strokes.
The hair structure ensures smooth maneuverability and dynamic strokes
whether light or heavy pressure is applied. Selected fine-quality
natural hair is combined to form this excellent all-purpose brush.
Because of its sharp tip and firm body, this brush performs various
strokes well, while still being flexible enough for shading and
coloring. It is also recommended for watercolor work.
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.
