THE PERFECT TOOLS

• The more filaments (bristles) a brush has, the more consistent your strokes will be, because they will be able to carry more paint. A tip here is to inspect the ferrule (the metal sheet that wraps around the brush and connects the bristles to the handle); if it is too thin, it will hold only small amount of filaments and they’ll be prone to fall off.
• Speaking of ferrules, always choose brass or stainless steel, pinned with 3-5 small nails. Additionally, look for the ones that have the bristles attached with epoxy glue. Both characteristics will make your brushes water-resistant.
• Select wisely between natural or synthetic bristles. The first is great for applying wax and for dry brushing techniques; whilst the latter, serves for spreading paint evenly.
• The handle design should be ergonomic (it adapts to your hand, not the other way around) and should be made out of varnished wood. This way, it will not swell when immersed into liquid.

And remember: the shorter the handle, the more control you will have over the roller or over the brush. The latter is excellent for fine detailing and painting smaller areas.

We have created specific brushes for Cottage Paint’s thick consistency. Find them here.