Hey there, fellow artists and creative souls! If you've ever stared at your collection of brushes wondering why your oil paintings aren't turning out quite as you'd hoped, you're not alone. Back in November 2023, I hosted a deep-dive lesson inside my painting membership community, all about demystifying oil paint brushes. It was one of those sessions where members walked away with "aha" moments that transformed their approach to painting.

Today, I'm sharing some highlights from that lesson to give you a taste of what we explore together—and hopefully inspire you to join us for more!

As an artist who's spent years experimenting in the studio, I know firsthand how the right (or wrong) brush can make or break your work. In this lesson, we broke it down into four key areas: bristle types, brush shapes, qualities beyond the bristles, and proper care. Whether you're a beginner dipping your toes into oils or a seasoned painter looking to refine your technique, understanding these fundamentals is a game-changer.

Bristle Types: Natural vs. Synthetic, and Bristle vs. Sable

We kicked things off by comparing natural and synthetic brushes. Natural brushes, made from animal hair, are my go-to for oils because of their incredible resilience and ability to hold and distribute paint smoothly. Synthetics, crafted from materials like polyester or nylon (which are petroleum derivatives), might seem budget-friendly at first, but they wear out fast—in my experience, sometimes after just 20 hours of use across a few sessions. That's why I always recommend investing in naturals for longevity.

Then, we delved into the two main natural options: hog-bristle and sable. Hog-bristle brushes are stiff and coarse, perfect for thick paint applications and impasto effects that add texture and depth. Sable brushes, on the other hand, are softer and finer, ideal for delicate details and smooth blending. Imagine laying down bold, expressive strokes with a bristle brush or finessing subtle highlights with sable—it's all about matching the tool to your vision.

Brush Shapes: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Style

One of the most fun parts of the lesson was exploring how different shapes create unique marks on the canvas. The three essentials? Round, filbert, and flat.

Round: Great for details and edges.

Filbert: Versatile, my budget pick for varied strokes.

Flat: Perfect for broad strokes and feathered edges.

We also touched on fan brushes for blending and textural effects, and bright brushes (like flats but with shorter bristles) are stiff for landscapes but tricky wet-on-wet.

Beyond the Basics: Brush Qualities That Matter

It's not just about the shape or bristle—other qualities play a huge role too. Stiffness varies based on hair type and processing; stiffer brushes tackle thick paints, while softer ones shine in blending and details.

Handle length was another eye-opener for many members. Long handles (traditional for oils) they're great for larger canvases. Short handles, often linked to water-based media like watercolor, offer more control for close-up work—though some oil painters swear by them.

Brush Care: The Secret to Long-Lasting Tools

No lesson on brushes would be complete without maintenance tips—because proper care extends their life dramatically. After each session, clean them thoroughly with odorless mineral spirits (OMS) to remove paint residue, then wash with soap and water (I love Dawn dishwashing soap for getting out every last bit of oil and pigment). Reshape the bristles—I swear by Pink Soap brush conditioner for this—and let them air dry flat. Pro tip: Never leave brushes standing in solvent; it ruins the bristles!

Why This Lesson (and the Membership) Changes Everything

In our November 2023 session, members didn't just learn facts—they experimented virtually with these concepts. It's the kind of supportive, interactive environment that makes painting feel less intimidating and more joyful. Inside the membership, we dive into lessons like this every month, plus live Q&As, critiques, and a community of like-minded artists cheering each other on.

If you're ready to elevate your oil painting game and unlock more insights like these, I invite you to join my painting membership today. It's where beginners become confident creators and experienced artists find fresh inspiration. Head over to the membership sign-up link to get started—your next masterpiece is waiting!

What are your favorite brushes or biggest brush dilemmas? I'd love to hear from you!

Happy painting