First things first, what are the different parts that make up a brush?

The Tip:
The slender extremity of fine bristle or hair. This is the first absorption point of the brush. It is this extremity of the bristle or hair that dictates how much paint will be absorbed. Fine bristles have one single extremity. Hog bristles however, have multiple extremities, as their tip is divided into several sections. 

The Belly:
Serves to hold colour in the bristles. The belly is also referred to as the ‘reserve’. This part of the brush head ensures that your paint is released in a progressive, uniform manner when the brush touches the surface on which you are painting. The better quality of the brush, the better the final result. 

The Ferrule:
The metallic part of the brush head, in either copper or brass, encases the bristles and provides their attachment point to the handle. For some methods of painting (such as a colour wash), the ferrule may be replaced by a quill. 

The Handle:
A short handle, or a long handle? The length of the handle allows the artist to decide how much distance they want between themselves and their work. For watercolours, we recommend a short handle for precision work and for work done on a table. For acrylics and oils, both types make good choices, it really comes down to the artist’s preference. The main difference between the two is that long-handled brushes are mainly intended for work at an easel, where one stays a certain distance from the painting. 

The Brush Head:
One of the most important decisions to make in the choosing of a brush, is the shape of its head! In the diagrams below you will find a selection of brush heads and suggestions on what they could be used for. As with many art materials, these are merely suggestions and guidelines!