Essential Brushes for Watercolor Beginners
Embarking on the watercolor painting path is an enchanting affair, filled with the joy of seeing colors gracefully spread on paper. Of utmost importance for beginning painters is a thorough understanding of their tools. Brushes, in particular, are pivotal in shaping your artwork’s feel and finish.
Let’s look at the types of paint brushes you should consider buying as you get started.
Round Brushes
These multi-taskers excel in adaptability—deliver broad strokes or fine details with a single brush. The right pressure can unleash sweeping coverage or finessed lines. If you can only afford one type as you get started in watercolor, choose these.
Beginner-Friendly Picks:
- Size 6: The quintessential round brush for general use.
- Size 10: A step-up to quickly cover wide expanses.
Flat
Their chiseled edges are splendid for projecting precision, defined washes, and extensive, linear strokes.
Beginner-Friendly Picks:
- 1-inch flat: Ideal for sweeping washes and expansive color blocks.
Detail Brushes
For the finishing touches that will add oomph to your paintings, reach for a liner or rigger brush. Their elongated bristles craft delicate strokes and finite details.
Beginner-Friendly Picks:
- Size 2: A diminutive round brush poised for meticulous detail.
- Size 0: An even daintier brush for the ultra-precise touches.
Mops
Mop brushes, flaunting a round and full form much like their cleaning namesake, harbor a bounty of water. They’re the go-to for laying down sheer and even color expanses.
Beginner-Friendly Pick:
- Medium-sized mop: Lay down ambitious washes replete with water and pigment.
Angled Brushes
Also known as angle shaders, their beveled brim delivers dexterity in carving sharp contours and cambers, adept for broad and delicate work alike.
Beginner-Friendly Pick:
- 1/2-inch angled brush: A stroke of versatility for an array of techniques.
Brush Material
Choose between the affordability of synthetic or the luxury of natural hair. Each has merits, with synthetics being pocket-friendly and naturals boasting superior absorbency.
- Synthetic: Sturdy, with commendable shape retention.
- Natural: Sable, squirrel, or kolinsky options that retain ample water and pigment.
Caring for Your Brushes
- Rinse them meticulously post-painting.
- Reshape the head prior to rest and drying.
- Refrain from submerging bristles in water for prolonged periods.
Wrapping Up
Equipping yourself with quality brushes paves the way for a fulfilling painting journey. The prime brush is ultimately subjective—it’s the one that feels right and yields your desired strokes. Embrace experimentation; as your prowess grows, so will your brush repertoire.
If you’re on a limited budget, I recommend you start with the 2 round brushes of good quality. I like Princeton brushes like these. (If you buy from that link, I may earn a few cents. Thank you.)