My Favorite Brushes (And How I Use Them).

Introduction

Welcome, fellow artists! Today, we're going to delve into the world of brushes. Brushes can be quite expensive, and it's frustrating when you invest in a brush only to find that it doesn't meet your needs. So, I want to share with you the brushes that I've discovered and fallen in love with over the years. These brushes are versatile and perfect for a range of mediums, from watercolor to oils. Let's dive in!

The Versatile Watercolor Brush

One brush that I absolutely adore is the watercolor brush. Now, even though I don't do watercolors anymore, this brush still holds a special place in my heart. It's fantastic for creating those bold, sweeping strokes in watercolor, but guess what? I discovered that it works just as beautifully with oils and acrylics. Who knew? So, don't let the name fool you. This brush is a hidden gem for multiple mediums.

The Power of Slant-Edged Brushes

Now, let's talk about brushes with a slant edge. These brushes are a game-changer because they offer a dual purpose. Not only can you use them for their slant edge to create unique scraping effects, but they also come with a rounded end for more traditional brush strokes. I personally love the sharp edge it provides, giving me the flexibility to create different effects with just one brush.

Oil Brushes: Finding the Perfect Fit

When it comes to oil brushes, I've tried my fair share of options. But there's one brand that has captured my heart—Raphael Cavern brushes. Let me tell you, these brushes are worth their weight in gold. Now, here's a personal preference of mine: I tend to steer clear of long filbert brushes. They just don't give me the control I desire. Instead, I opt for the shorter, flat brushes. These brushes are perfect for applying paint and leaving it be, creating beautiful textures and shapes.

Embracing Filberts for Masterful Blending

Ah, filbert brushes. These rounded brushes are fantastic for blending. When I merge colors together, I prefer to blend sideways rather than flat, and filbert brushes offer the perfect curvature for that technique. They're my go-to when it comes to achieving seamless transitions and adding depth to my paintings. If you haven't experimented with filbert brushes yet, I highly recommend you give them a whirl.

The Unsung Heroes: Rosemary and Company Brushes

Now, let me introduce you to some little brushes that pack a lot of punch. Rosemary and Company brushes are small in size but mighty in performance. These brushes boast incredible bounce, allowing you to easily apply paint with precision. I particularly love using these brushes for details like eyes or to add that extra touch of "wow" to the focal point of my artwork. Don't underestimate the power of these little wonders.

Discovering Unconventional Gems

Sometimes, you have to think outside the box or, in this case, outside the art store. One of my favorite discoveries is Chinese bristle brushes from the hardware store. These brushes may not have the same finesse as their synthetic counterparts, but they offer a different feel and texture. They are perfect for tackling large areas and can give your artwork a unique character. So, don't be afraid to venture beyond the art store aisles and explore the unexpected.

Conclusion

There you have it, my artist friends. Brushes are more than just tools; they are an extension of our creativity and vision. By finding the right brushes for your medium and experimenting with different shapes and sizes, you can unlock a new world of possibilities in your artwork. So, go forth and create bold strokes, blend with finesse, and explore the untapped potential of unconventional brushes. Remember, in the world of art, there are no limitations—only endless opportunities to express your unique voice.