Essential Brushes You Need to Get Started as a Painter

Posted June 28th, 2023

Are you a budding artist, eager to unleash your creativity onto the canvas? As a painter, your tools are your most trusted companions, and one of the fundamental tools you'll need is a set of high-quality brushes. The right brushes can make all the difference in achieving the desired effects and bringing your artistic vision to life. 

In this blog post, we'll explore the essential brushes you need to get started on your painting journey. So, let's dive in and discover the perfect brushes to add to your artistic arsenal!

Which Essential Brushes Do You Need to Get Started as a Painter?

1. Flat Brushes

One of the most versatile types of brushes you should have in your collection is flat brushes. These brushes have a rectangular shape with bristles that taper slightly towards the ends. Flat brushes are perfect for laying down large areas of color, creating sharp edges, and achieving bold, sweeping strokes. They are commonly used for painting landscapes, buildings, and backgrounds. Additionally, flat brushes can also be useful for applying varnishes and glazes.

When choosing flat brushes, consider the size and material of the bristles. Natural bristle brushes are ideal for oil and acrylic paints, while synthetic bristle brushes are suitable for watercolors and gouache. Here are a few sizes of flat brushes you should consider adding to your collection:

• 1/2 inch: Perfect for details and thin lines.
• 1 inch: Great for medium-sized areas and general painting.
• 2 inches: Ideal for covering larger surfaces quickly.

2. Round Brushes

Round brushes are another essential tool for painters. These brushes have a rounded, pointed tip and come in various sizes. Round brushes are incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of techniques, including detailed work, blending, and creating smooth lines. They are particularly useful for painting portraits, still life, and adding intricate details to your artwork.

When selecting round brushes, opt for brushes with a good spring and a fine point. This will allow you to have better control over your brushstrokes. Here are a few sizes of round brushes that will serve you well:

• Size 0: Perfect for intricate details and fine lines.
• Size 4: Great for general painting and adding smaller details.
• Size 8: Ideal for larger areas and broader strokes.

3. Filbert Brushes

If you're looking for a brush that combines the versatility of flat and round brushes, filbert brushes are the way to go. These brushes have a flat, oval-shaped tip that tapers to a point. Filbert brushes are excellent for blending, creating soft edges, and achieving a natural, rounded look in your paintings. They are commonly used for painting flowers, foliage, and adding texture to your artwork.

When choosing filbert brushes, look for brushes with a good spring and soft bristles. Here are a few sizes of filbert brushes that should be in your brush collection:

• Size 2: Perfect for detailed work and smaller areas.
• Size 6: Great for general painting and medium-sized areas.
• Size 10: Ideal for larger surfaces and broader strokes.

4. Fan Brushes

Fan brushes may not be as commonly used as other brush types, but they can be a valuable addition to your painting toolkit. These brushes have bristles arranged in a fan shape, which makes them perfect for creating textures, blending colors, and adding special effects such as foliage, grass, and clouds. Fan brushes are particularly useful for landscape and portrait paintings.

When selecting fan brushes, opt for brushes with soft, flexible bristles. Here are a few sizes of fan brushes that you can consider:

• Size 2: Perfect for creating small details and textures.
• Size 6: Great for general use and medium-sized areas.
• Size 12: Ideal for larger surfaces and broader strokes.

5. Angled Brushes

Last but not least, angled brushes are excellent for creating precise lines, edges, and controlled strokes. These brushes have bristles cut at an angle, which allows for greater control and versatility. Angled brushes are commonly used for painting geometric shapes, lettering, and adding intricate details to your artwork.

When choosing angled brushes, consider the angle of the bristles and the firmness of the brush. Here are a few sizes of angled brushes that can be valuable in your collection:

• 1/4 inch: Perfect for smaller details and lines.
• 3/8 inch: Great for general painting and medium-sized areas.
• 1/2 inch: Ideal for larger surfaces and broader strokes.

Conclusion

Having the right brushes is essential for any painter, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned artist. By investing in a variety of flat brushes, round brushes, filbert brushes, fan brushes, and angled brushes, you'll be equipped to tackle various painting techniques and bring your artistic visions to life. Remember to choose brushes with the appropriate bristle material for the type of paint you'll be using, and don't forget to take care of your brushes to ensure their longevity.

If you're ready to embark on your artistic journey or if you have any questions about our recommended brushes, we invite you to get in touch with us at EdCorbinsArt. Reach out to us at (817) 223-9729 or via email at [email protected]. Our team of passionate artists is always here to assist you and provide you with the tools and guidance you need to unleash your creativity.