It does not matter if you are painting an entire home, touching up the trim around the door, or putting a fresh coat on your old picnic table, choosing the right paintbrush can be very confusing. You may think they are all pretty much the same, but they’re not. The right brush will offer a seamless finished result that is without streaks, but the wrong one can destroy the appearance completely. You can have a beautifully decorated room, but if there are brush marks on the ceiling, that is the one thing that guests are going to zero in on.

Paintbrushes come in a variety of sizes and shapes, with each one excelling in a different task. Some people assume that if they simply buy the most expensive brush in the store that the finished result will be perfect, but this is not necessarily true.

There are a few things to consider, such as:

  • Paint – The paint you are working with actually plays a role in your brush choice. Acrylic bristles are recommended for latex paint while varnish and oil-based paints demand a good quality natural bristle brush. This will allow you to achieve a glossier and smoother finish.
  • Size – You never want to try to use a large brush in a tight space. Not only does doing this often result in a mess, but it can also leave streaks and look unpolished. When dealing with tight spaces use a trim or sash brush. This variety has tapered bristles, allowing them to cover grooves and corners easily.
  • Handle – You may not give a lot of thought to the handle on a paintbrush, but if you are working on a large project, it will make a difference in the end result. You want your hand to be comfortable so strokes can remain graceful and even.

Recommended Brushes

Although you need to take the above considerations into mind, there are some general guidelines to follow. These include:

  • Edges and Trims – A 1-inch angled sash brush is ideal. Try to find one with a stubby handle so you have more control over what you are doing.
  • Window Sills – A 2-inch angled sash brush is perfect for window sills. Some people do use this size for edges and corners as well with no problem.
  • Wide Trim – Wider pieces of trim or molding should have a brush that is a little wider, so you don’t see the strokes. A 3-inch flat bristle sash brush is perfect.
  • Floors, Walls, and Ceilings – A 5-inch flat brush can be used for floors, walls, and ceilings. However, some people prefer to use a roller for a smoother and more even coverage. If you do use a brush for an entire wall, you can expect to complete a couple of coats.

Choosing the right brush is as important as picking out the perfect color paint or the perfect mover. To ensure your finished project is everything you have envisioned in your mind, make sure that you are using the right paintbrush for every part of your project.

Categories: How-To