The American Paintbrush
A good brush costs more than a cheap one. It also holds more paint, releases it more evenly, and does not leave bristles in the finish. The difference is in the filament.
Natural bristle
Natural bristle brushes are made from animal hair, typically hog bristle from China. The bristles have a natural taper and flagged (split) tips that hold paint and release it smoothly. Natural bristle is the correct choice for oil-based paints, varnishes, shellac, and all solvent-based finishes. The bristles create a smooth, even film with minimal brush marks. Natural bristle should never be used with water-based paints: the bristles absorb water, swell, and go limp.
Nylon
Nylon bristles are synthetic and were developed as an alternative to natural bristle for water-based paints. Nylon maintains stiffness in water, does not absorb moisture, and cleans easily. Early nylon brushes were too stiff and left brush marks. Modern nylon filaments are tapered and tipped to mimic the paint-holding properties of natural bristle. Nylon is the correct choice for latex paints and water-based finishes.
Polyester
Polyester filaments are stiffer than nylon and hold their shape better in heat. A polyester brush painting a south-facing exterior wall in July will not soften and lose its edge the way nylon can. Polyester is also more resistant to aggressive solvents. For exterior painting in hot conditions and for paints with strong solvents, polyester is the right filament. The trade-off is that polyester does not hold as much paint as nylon.
Blends
Nylon-polyester blends combine the paint-holding capacity of nylon with the stiffness and heat resistance of polyester. They are the most versatile synthetic brush and the correct choice when you want one brush for multiple paint types and conditions. Most quality brushes from Purdy, Wooster, and Corona are nylon-polyester blends in various ratios tuned for specific applications.
What to buy
For oil-based work: a natural bristle brush from Purdy, Corona, or a quality import. For latex and water-based: a nylon-polyester blend from Purdy, Wooster, or Corona. For both: buy one of each. A 2.5-inch angled sash brush handles trim, cutting in, and detail work. A 3-inch flat brush handles larger surfaces. These two brushes, properly cleaned and stored, will last years. A five-dollar chip brush from the hardware store is for epoxy, stain, and throwaway applications. It is not a paintbrush.
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