Brush preference is highly subjective. Without going down the endless rabbit hole of tools and products, I feel that you should use whatever gets the job done and feels right for you. Having an expensive or well-known branded brush won’t make you a better painter, however, a well-made brush might last longer, lose fewer bristles, and provide a little more control. I’m not sponsored or paid for these recommendations. They are what I actually use and have had to pay for myself. If you like to use a different brush I’d love to hear about it. I’m always curious.

OIL PAINT BRUSHES

Here are a few brushes that are my trusted ‘go-to’ brushes; the brushes I find myself relying on upon again and again.

For oil painting, I’ve personally found Rosemary & Co brushes to be superior for my style of painting. Based and produced in the UK, they are well-crafted and affordable. They have excellent holding ability and have a wide range of shapes and sizes. I personally like the Short Flats and Rounds for most of my work. Their long handles are nicely weighted and have a good balance. My preferences are hog bristles for more aggressive gesturing and textures, and natural bristles for softer and precise strokes. The Ebony, Masters Choice, and Cloud Nine series are all great. If you care for them and clean them up well, they’ll last years. Some of my brushes include:

#4 Short Flat Ebony
#8 Short Flat Ebony
#8 Short Flat Masters Choice Series 274
#12 Short Flat
3/8 and 5/8 Dagger by Tisch
3/4” Cloud Nine Ebony
1” Cloud Nine Hog
3/4” Mundy Mop
1.5” Series 444
#4 Round Ebony
#8 Round Ebony
#12 Round Ebony
#3 Rigger Masters Choice Series 273

In situations where I’m more abusive (expressive) with my mark-making and rubbing, I’ll use a cheaper student-grade brush that I don’t really expect to keep for very long. That will be included in my next posting.

Next up: Oil Brushes Part 2