When it comes to painting jobs, one thing that often gets overlooked is the paintbrush’s quality. When painting a wall or furniture, your first thought might be to grab whatever brush is lying around. But surprisingly, the quality of your brush plays a critical role in achieving perfect results.

Quality brushes will make a big difference in your project. These brushes will help ensure that the paint is applied evenly and smoothly, with no streaks. It will also save you time and effort in painting. They are also more durable and can last longer. 

In this article, you’re going to learn:

• The difference between low and high-quality brushes
• Considerations when choosing a paintbrush
• The top 8 paintbrushes

The Importance of Investing in Quality Paintbrushes

When it comes to painting, the quality of your paintbrush can make a big difference in the overall results. A high-quality brush will provide a smooth, even finish that looks professional. In contrast, a cheap brush can leave behind streaks and brush marks. It can also be more difficult to control, making it harder to achieve the desired results.

It’s generally worth it to invest in a good quality paintbrush. But, your brush will also depend on the paint you’re using. For detailed work, a smaller brush is usually best. For larger areas, a thicker brush can cover the ground more quickly.

High-quality paintbrushes can make a big difference in the result of your project. Of course, they may only be necessary for some jobs. But investing in a good brush can be worth it if you’re looking to achieve an even, professional finish. With the right tools, you can create stunning results that you’ll proudly display.

Budget Brushes vs Quality Brushes

Quality Brushes

Good quality brushes are highly recommended for interior painting for several reasons:

• The right brush will make your painting job easier.
• The right brush will give a more professional finish to your work.
• The right brush will save you time and effort in the long run.

When selecting a brush, choosing one with quality bristles is important. The bristles may be made of natural animal hair, synthetic fibers, or a mix. Natural bristles work well with oil-based paint but should not be used with water-based paint. Synthetic bristles can be used with either type of paint.

A quality paintbrush comprises several lengths of bristles, tapering near the end. The tips of the bristles are fuzzy and split, like hair, which allows the tip to hold sufficient paint and results in a smoother finish.

The ferrule is the metal band that connects the bristles to the handle. To function correctly, it needs to be made of a non-corrosive metal and fit snugly. When shopping for a brush, find one whose ferrule is tight and secure. This way, you can avoid having a shedding brush with misshapen bristles.

Budget Brushes

Trying to save money by purchasing an inexpensive paintbrush will cost you more in time and frustration than it’s worth. Also, the finish of your work paintwork may need to be better and more professional. However, cheap paint brushes can still be used to apply glues and some paint projects that do not require a fine finish.

However, for a serious painting job, it is worth investing in a good-quality brush. The bristles on an inexpensive brush will likely be synthetic. If you spread them, they will be un-tapered with a blunt end. This type of brush tip will need more paint, and the result could be a streaky paint job.

In addition, the ferrule on an inexpensive brush is often made of plastic or aluminum. This ferrule does not securely hold the bristles, so some of the bristles end up spoiling your paint job.

4 Considerations When Choosing A Paintbrush

The Size of the Paintbrush Head

Your needs will determine the size of the paintbrush. For example, select a smaller brush head with fine bristles if you need only a small area painted, like a window trim or door frame. On the other hand, if you’re tackling larger areas such as walls and ceilings, opt for a bigger brush with thicker bristles that can hold more paint and cover more ground quickly.

The Type of Bristles

Paintbrushes come with two types of bristles.

Natural brushes

Natural bristles are the way to go when it comes to painting and polishing wood. Hog hair and badger hair, in particular, are excellent choices thanks to their microscopic splits. These tiny imperfections allow the brush to hold more product, leading to a smoother finish. A natural-bristle brush will give you the best results if you’re applying oil-based paints, top coats, shellac, or polyurethane.

Synthetic brushes

Synthetic bristles, such as nylon or polyester, are better for water-based paints. These bristles are smoother and will not absorb water, making them more durable for latex-based products. Additionally, synthetic brushes are less expensive than natural ones.

The Quality of the Paintbrush

Regarding quality, not all paintbrushes are created equal, so select one that is made well and suitable for your project. High-qualityHigh-quality paintbrushes feature tight bristles that don’t shed easily and comfortable handles that aren’t too slippery or rough on your hands while working with them.

Additionally, check reviews online or ask people you know who have painted before what type of brush they recommend before making a purchase. This will ensure you get one that will provide good results without breaking the bank.

Style

The paintbrush has three main styles, each designed for a different purpose and surface area. The square-cut brush is 4-6 inches and is used for large, flat surfaces such as walls, doors, and siding.

The angle sash brush is designed to reach obstacles like behind a toilet and is excellent for painting grooves, panels, edges, and corners. Finally, the round sash brush is small and round with a long handle, making it excellent for tight spaces or small projects like molding.

8 Best Paintbrushes

Purdy XL Swan Flat Paint Brush

• 3 inches wide, square style
• It has a comfortable wood handle
• Made of nylon and polyester bristles
• Most effective in larger areas.
• Compatible with all types of paint, varnish, and sealant.
• Designed for Latex and oil-based paints, stains, and primers.

Purdy XL Elite Dale Sash Paint Brush

• 1.5 inches, narrow-angle sash brush
• Made of nylon and polyester
• Designed especially for low-VOC paints
• Perfect for detailed work on firm or slightly rough surfaces
• The paint held well and spread evenly across surfaces
• The lightweight design makes it easy to hold and maneuver
• The long handle allows you to reach tight spaces
• Can be used with oil-based paints and Latex
• Good for exterior and interior use

Wooster 2 in. Shortcut Polyester Angle Sash Brush

• 2 inches, angled style
• Made from nylon and polyester
• Creates a perfect edge between the ceiling and wall, making your home look neater and more polished
• Works best with latex acrylics, water-based stains, and other paint types.
• Provides great control
• The short, flexible handle is perfect for tight spaces and difficult angles.

Richard 80833 Goose Neck Angular Paint Brush

• 2.5 inches, Angled
• Made from nylon and polyester
• Flexible bristles
• Can hold and glide paint exceedingly well
• Has a bendable handle
• Allows you to paint areas that would otherwise be difficult to reach, such as high walls and corners
• Great for baseboard painting. No need to crouch

Proform Pro-Ergo 70/30 Blend Angle Sash Paint Brush

• 2 inches, Angled style
• Made of PBT filament
• Ergonomically designed handle
• Can be used with any type of paint
• Works great for cutting in and trim projects

Purdy Nylox Swan

• 4 inches, Soft
• Made from Synthetic nylon
• 100 percent black nylon bristles for a professional finish
• Can be used for larger areas
• Applies paint smoothly, with no visible brushstrokes
• Has a smooth handle
• Tapered handle for easier grip

PRO 2 in. Trylon Thin Angled Sash Paint Brush

• 2 inches, Angled style
• Made from Trylon filament
• Designed to absorb paint efficiently
• has a thin handle
• Best used for all kinds of paint
• Light and easy to hold
• Easy cleanup

Purdy White China Bristle Sprig 2″ Flat Paint Brush

• 2 inches, Square style
• Made from natural bristles
• Bristles are soft
• Absorbs heavy kinds of paint and stain
• Perfect for applying oil-based products
• Can use solvent for cleaning
• Good for wood trim and furniture