Not all oil paintbrushes are created equal
First ask yourself what makes you want a brush that is more expensive than a whole package of brushes? What is the return on investment?
My thought was always to be creative and paint with little regard for cleaning brushes or my studio for that matter.
Pros
1. You end up being free and able to create without worrying about the mess
2. You save money by not keeping brushes for long
Cons
1. Accuracy and precision depends on a rigid brush with some flexibility
2. Being able to count on the feel of the brush and the results is like getting comfortable with how your car performs
3. The discipline in keeping brushes cleaned, taking care of your studio will reward you in so many way including improving creative focus
4. Each brush will last longer and there is so much less waste of brushes and money over time
5. You can finally take pride in your studio workplace, the brushes you use and how they perform when you need them.
I bought some brushes recently and let them sit in the back for several days before I actually started painting. It was almost like picking up that new computer and not sure where all the buttons are. It seems kind of strange but I want the quality of the brush to truly come out with my use.
These brushes I would consider cheaper but still way above the bag of brushes you usually buy at a hobby shop. The bristles act like they are able to move the paint and control the line.
I am using a very thin brush as well as a larger more flat brush and so far it has made a difference with the dog painting I am doing and some detailed work.
The main thing is the medium and the paint flow through the brush and have a solid place to fill, that is the major difference I have learned so far.
Royal & Langnickel Zen Brushes
Instead of a whole bag of brushes for 10.00 -each brush runs in the 3 to 4.00 range. A step up and yet, immediately the feel of the brush and the quality of the bristles stand out. These are synthetic and natural blend.
It is a great way to get on to more expensive brands of brushes without going broke. The quality of the brush and the feeling of how it flows is definitely already noticeable from the package of brushes as I usually use.
This is the first of many posts about different materials I am using, including pastels and even the fluidity and permanence of different paints.
As always, the main thing is to find your comfort with whatever tool you can afford and then use the tool to its fullest potential. I have just recently begun to understand the difference and the tradeoff of using cheaper materials versus a bit more expensive.
It is a tool and every tool has its strength and weakness. You can navigate between your budget and comfort levels.
Comments
Post a Comment