Are you excited to start painting with watercolors but unsure which brushes to buy?
Choosing the right watercolor brush can make a huge difference in your artwork. The right tools help you create smooth washes, fine details, and beautiful textures.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about watercolor brushes for beginners, so you can make a confident choice and start painting with ease!
Contents
Understanding Watercolor Brushes
Watercolor brushes come in many shapes and sizes, and each has a specific purpose.
As a beginner, knowing the basics will help you pick the right ones without feeling overwhelmed.
The 3 Most Common Types of Watercolor Brushes
When I started painting, I was confused by all the different brush types. However, I quickly realized that beginners only need a few essentials.
- Round Brush – This is the most versatile brush. You can use it for fine details, bold strokes, and washes. A size 6 or 8 is a great starting point.
- Flat Brush – Perfect for covering large areas with smooth washes. It also creates sharp edges and straight lines.
- Wash Brush – This brush holds much water and is excellent for painting backgrounds or soft gradients.
You can create a wide range of effects with just these three brushes!
Different Handle Types and Their Uses
Brush handles might not seem important at first, but they affect how comfortable the painting feels.
- Collapsible Brushes – These are portable and great for painting outdoors. If you like sketching on the go, they’re a great option.
- Wooden Handle Brushes – These are the most common and feel sturdy in hand. They come in short and long versions.
- Short vs. Long Handles – Short handles are best for watercolor because they give you better control. Long handles are typically used for acrylic or oil painting.
Understanding Brush Hair Types
Watercolor brushes can have synthetic or natural hair bristles. Each has its advantages, depending on your budget and painting style.
Synthetic vs. Natural Hair Brushes
When I first started painting, I used synthetic brushes because they were more affordable. But I learned the differences between them and natural hair brushes over time.
- Synthetic Brushes – These are budget-friendly and great for beginners. However, they don’t hold as much water as natural brushes.
- Natural Hair Brushes – These hold more water and paint, making blending and washes easier. However, they’re more expensive.
- Mixed Hair Brushes – These combine synthetic and natural hairs, offering a balance between price and performance.
Different Types of Natural Hair
If you’re considering natural hair brushes, you’ll find different types available.
- Sable Hair Brushes – The best quality, but also the most expensive. They hold a lot of water and create smooth, precise strokes.
- Other Animal Hair Brushes – Squirrel, goat, and ox hair brushes are also used in watercolor. They have unique properties, but sable brushes are generally the best choice for detailed work.
Choosing the Right Brush for Beginners
Picking the right brush depends on a few factors. Let’s break them down so you can make the best choice for your needs.
Factors to Consider
Before buying a brush, ask yourself these questions:
- What’s my budget? If you’re just starting, synthetic brushes are a great cost-effective choice.
- What type of artwork do I want to create? If you love details, go for round brushes. Flat and wash brushes will be helpful if you prefer abstract or landscape paintings.
- Is the brush comfortable to use? A good brush should feel natural in your hand and allow for smooth strokes.
Recommended Brushes for Beginners
Based on my experience, here are the best brushes for beginners:
- Round Brush (Size 6 or 8) – Great for general use and details.
- Flat Brush (1/2 inch or 1 inch) – Ideal for washes and broad strokes.
- Synthetic or Mixed Hair Brushes – Affordable and good for learning techniques before upgrading to natural hair brushes.
If you’re ready to invest in a high-quality brush, a sable round brush is a great long-term option!
Water Brushes vs. Traditional Brushes
Water brushes are another option for beginners, but are they better than traditional brushes?
- Water Brushes – These have a built-in water reservoir, making them great for travel and sketching. However, they offer less control than traditional brushes.
- Traditional Brushes – These give you more precision, especially for detailed work and blending.
If you like painting on the go, a water brush is worth trying. But for serious watercolor work, traditional brushes are the best choice.
Practical Tips for Using and Maintaining Watercolor Brushes
Taking care of your brushes will make them last longer and perform better. Here are some simple but essential tips:
- Test a Brush Before Buying – Test how it holds water and paint if possible. A good brush should form a fine point when wet.
- Clean Your Brushes Properly – Rinse them with clean water after each use. Avoid using harsh soaps, as they can damage the bristles.
- Store Them Correctly – Always let brushes dry with the bristles facing upward. This prevents damage and helps them keep their shape.
- Avoid Pressing Too Hard – Let the brush do the work! Pressing too hard can damage the bristles over time.
By following these tips, your brushes will stay in great shape for years.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right watercolor brushes as a beginner doesn’t have to be complicated.
Start with a few essential brushes, experiment with different types, and take good care of them.
Over time, you’ll discover what works best for your painting style.
What brushes have you tried so far? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about your experience!