What Are The Three Types Of Brushes?

Brushes are an essential tool for artists, painters, makeup artists, and even for cleaning. Brushes come in different shapes, sizes, and textures that cater to specific needs. However, they can primarily be classified into three broad categories: natural, synthetic, and combination brushes.

Natural Brushes

Natural brushes are made up of animal fur, including squirrel, goat, sable, horse, or even camel hair. They are preferred for their superior quality- they hold more paint, are more durable, and have excellent paint release. They are ideal for oil painting and watercolor. Animal hair is naturally tapered, making it easier to apply paint evenly. Moreover, natural hair brushes offer a degree of texture and subtlety in brushstrokes that is hard to replicate with synthetic brushes.

However, there are ethical concerns regarding animal hair brushes. Some brands claim to source hair only from animals that have died humanely or have their hair collected after shedding. Nonetheless, synthetic alternatives are gaining popularity for those who want to avoid using animal fur.

Synthetic Brushes

Synthetic brushes are made up of polyester or nylon fibers, and they have come a long way since their invention in the 1930s. They have become increasingly popular in the last few decades due to improvements in their design and functionality. Synthetic brushes are ideal for acrylic and watercolor painting.

Unlike natural brushes, synthetic brushes do not trap paint in the belly of the brush, making them easier to clean. They last longer, retain their shape better, and do not shed as much. Synthetic brushes are also advantageous for their affordability; they tend to be cheaper than natural brushes.

Combination Brushes

Combination brushes, also known as “blends,” combine synthetic and natural materials to take advantage of the respective benefits of each type. For example, the brush might use synthetic fibers for the bristle’s base and natural hair for the tips to create a brush that holds more water, yet keeps its shape. Combination brushes are versatile, and artists can use them for any medium. They are also more durable than natural brushes and more affordable than synthetic brushes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, artists have a wide range of brushes to choose from when it comes to their creative work. Deciding between the three types of brushes depends on the artist’s medium, style, personal preference, and budget. Natural brushes offer a superior quality that is hard to replicate with synthetic brushes, whereas synthetic brushes are ideal for affordability and easy maintenance. Combination brushes offer the best of both worlds, combining the advantages of both synthetic and natural brushes.