My Favourite Brushes – A Love Story
I have a confession to make: I can’t throw away a brush. Ever. Over the years, I’ve kept them all—short-haired, smooth long-haired, wild punk-haired, flat-head, biseauté, round, thin, and thick—I love them all.
Each brush has a story, a personality, a purpose. Some even hold traces of pigment from past masterpieces, their bristles transformed into a tapestry of colors. Others bear charming marks on their wooden parts—a testament to countless creative sessions. Some are sleek and precise, perfect for delicate details and soft washes. Others are wild and unruly, their bristles splayed from years of use, creating the most incredible textures.
The very old and worn-out ones? They’re not retired; they’ve just evolved. They create beautiful textured swashes, unexpected splashes, and dreamy, abstract backgrounds. These true grandmothers of my collection have become my go-to for playful techniques—like flicking drawing gum onto paper to create my magic splashes.
I love to fidget with the softer ones; they always spark my inspiration.
Taking Care of Your Brushes
A good brush deserves good care. Did you know that keeping them in shape is actually quite simple? After every painting session, just rinse them under cold water and gently lather them with Marseille soap. Give them a proper rinse, reshape the bristles with your fingers, and lay them flat on a paper towel to dry. This little ritual keeps them soft, clean, and ready for their next masterpiece.
Whether they’re brand new or years old, every brush in my collection has a role to play. They are more than just tools—they are part of the creative process, each leaving its unique mark on the paper.
Natural hair brushes stay in shape longer than synthetic ones—just like real hair!
Do you have a favourite brush? Or maybe one you just can’t let go of? Let’s talk brushes in the comments!