How to Choose the Right Paint Brush

We know there is an overwhelming variety of paint brushes in hardware stores, which can make it difficult to choose which paintbrush you need for the job. We are here to help you narrow down the different types of paint brushes and pick the right brush for your project.

Different bristle types provide different finishes.

Paint brush bristles are often made up of synthetic bristles or natural bristles from animal hair. If you’re using paint or varnish that can be cleaned up with water, choose to use a brush with synthetic bristles. If you’re applying oil-based varnish or paint, a natural-bristle will be the better choice. Natural bristles will provide a smoother finish when using oil paints. However, don’t use a natural bristle brush to apply water-based finishes, as the bristles will soak up moisture and become too soft.

Choose the right size for your project.

When painting or varnishing wood, use a small brush as this will allow for precise control. A 14cm-wide brush is good for most woodwork projects. But, if you’re painting a trim that’s wider than 7cm, a wider brush, up to 6.5cm, would suit the job. When painting walls, you will often only use a paintbrush for cutting in. Professionals sometimes use 7.5 or 10cm-wide brushes for this.

The only time you should consider a brush wider than 7 cm is if you’re painting wide siding, fencing, paneling or other wide, flat surfaces.

Choose the right shape.

When you’re at the hardware store choosing your paintbrush, you’ll notice that some brushes have bristles that are cut at an angle and some have square ends. If you’re going to paint trim or cut in before rolling walls, then you should use a brush with an angled tip. The angled tip makes it easier to control the line of paint for a more precise job. Choose a square-tipped brush if you’re painting wide, flat surfaces.

Visit DIY Depot for our wide range of paint brushes. And if you are still stuck on which paintbrush to you for your project, speak to one of our in-store assistance for further advice.