Brushes Anatomy

Understand the parts of a brush to help determine a quality brush from one that not so good.

Length Out: the length of the brush hairs sticking out of the ferrule.		Belly: the thick part of the tuft that is formed by natural pointed hairs. Bristle and brushes made from artificial hairs do not form a belly. This is the part of the brush that holds most of the paint.
		Ferrules: the metal ring that holds the paint brush hairs in place. They made in two types, one with seams that are made from sheets of metal and rolled into shape. The other is seamless and these are more desirable than ferrules with seams.
Crimping: locks the ferrule to the handle.
		Handle: length varies from one maufacture to another but with in a series they remain consistant. Typical watercolor burshes have shorter handles and brushes with long handle are used for oils and acrylics. The best handles are made from a quality hardwood that is straight grained and free of defects. The finish on the handle also determine its quality. The best brushes have a quality laquer finish, making them resisant to water, chipping and cracking.

Paint Brushes