Choosing a Paintbrush:
It’s not as Difficult as you Think

The ideal way to use your paint brush is to hand it over to us. We’ll take the pain out of painting for you anytime.

For those of you who insist on tackling those walls, doors and moldings on your own, consider the brush. It’s a simple instrument but if you don’t choose the right one, you’re in for a tough weekend.

You get to the store and we know. Really, we know there’s an entire isle of paint brushes. Finding the right one will increase the chances of making your home look great. It also saves you time later and unless you have a fetish for cleaning up paint—work with a good brush.

Paint Brush Anatomy

The ferrule holds the bristles that hold your paint. One with screws or a strong attachment is the first sign of a quality brush. If you see bristles coming out early in the game the ferule isn’t doing its job. Fire it.

Lots of bristles is a good thing. Good brushes have ones that look like “split ends.” That’s not ideal for your hair but it’s great for brushes. Plenty of bristles is as good as having a full, thick head of hair. More bristles will hold more paint. If it holds more than less comes dripping down your hand. (We just saved you money on soap.) Let the brush do more work.

Another good sign; bristles that spring back into position. Try bending the them for a second and then let go. If they bounce right back that’s good stuff.

Think about getting yourself a wood handle. Heck, you only live once so why not enjoy a comfy non-slip experience. Uncoated wood feels great and absorbs sweat from those hard-working hands.

Material

You’ll see foam brushes out there. They have their uses. Since they’re virtually disposable you don’t have to clean up. So paint a nice square on the wall and when you’re done – out they go. Yet, to get a real job looking good you can’t use them.

For a finish you can be proud of, use a natural bristle or even some of the high-end synthetic models.

When the paint’s water-based go with synthetic bristles. The natural ones soak up water and get flat and saggy like your hair when it’s wet. (You getting our theme here?)

For oil-based coatings, you can use either synthetic or natural bristle material. Natural brushes cost more but for things like stain, varnish and oil based paints they’ll be worth the investment.

Size

Finally, using the right size will help get you to the finish line. The larger it is the more paint it holds—but don’t go overboard. If two-inch molding is the target don’t grab a four-inch brush. A one-and-a-half will serve you better.

Tools may not do the job for you but they’ll pave the way for a better experience and improved result. Start with the brush. If that doesn’t work talk to an experienced contractor like Elite Painting Plus. We’ll get you a free, hassle-free estimate and never give you the brush-off.