Are natural or synthetic paint brushes better?

You're browsing through the brushes at the art store and become overwhelmed by all the types available. Don't sweat it, we've all been there. The biggest category you might notice however, is natural hair bristle brushes and synthetic bristle brushes, which is what we'll go over in this article. Both of these paint brushes have their own unique qualities and work great in different situations, so let's break down what they are.

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An overview of natural vs synthetic brushes

Natural hair bristle brushes are made from the hair of animals such as sable, squirrel, and hog. These types of brushes have a natural ability to hold and release paint, which make them ideal for fine detail work and blending. They are also very durable and can withstand heavy use without losing their shape. The downside is that they can be expensive and are not as easy to clean compared to synthetic brushes.

On the other hand, synthetic bristle brushes are made from materials such as nylon or polyester. They are more affordable than natural hair brushes and are easier to clean. Synthetic brushes can be used with a variety of paints, including oils and acrylics. These reasons are what make synthetic brushes a popular option for many. Their downside is that they may not have the same ability to hold and release paint as natural hair brushes.

When it comes to choosing a brush for oil painting, it's often reccomended to use natural hair brushes because the natural fibers of the brush hold the oil paint load really well, making it easier to create fine detail and blend colors. However, it's important to understand that a lot of this depends on how you work with your paint. There are many artists that find that incorporating synthetic brush into their paintings works quite well. There are a several brands out there that produce synthetic brushes with a stiffer, more unique feel, meant for oil painting that might be worth a try.

For acrylic painting, both natural hair and synthetic brushes can be used, so it's up to the artists preference. Synthetic brushes are the suggested brush for acrylic painting as they are easier to clean. You can certainly use natural hair brushes for acrylic painting too, you just need to be on top of keeping them clean and cared for properly.

There most likely wont be a single type of brush that will do it all for you. A lot of times the natural bristle brushes will be great for underpaintings and blocking in, while the natural hair brushes will allow you to finesse the paint for a delicate finish.

When blocking in a painting, which type of brush works best?

Natural bristle brushes, such as hog hair brushes, are considered to be better for blocking in a painting or applying large areas of color to the canvas. This is because natural hair brushes have a stiffer texture which gives them the ability to push and release the paint. These brushes are perfect for times that you're working with thicker paints. Synthetic brushes, while they can be used for blocking in, tend to have a softer texture and may not hold as much of a paint load, which can make it more difficult to achieve the control and coverage that you're after.

Another advantage of natural bristle brushes is that they hold their shape well over time, which is also very useful when blocking in a painting. Due to the nature of synthetic brushes, they tend to lose their shape more quickly when working on large areas like this. And finally, natural bristle brushes, particularly hog hair, are known for their durability. This typically makes them a more cost-effective option in the long run.

Don't count out synthetic bristle brushes just yet though...

Synthetic hair brushes may be better for adding final details in your painting because they have a softer texture than natural hair brushes, which can make them more suitable for fine detail work.

Synthetic brushes, that are made of nylon or polyester fibers, are often smoother and more consistent in shape and texture than natural hair brushes. This is can be beneficial for fine details because it gives you more precision in application. The synthetic fibers are also less likely to split, which makes it simpler to achieve fine lines, even blends, and strokes.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of synthetic vs natural brushes. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

It's also worth noting though, that some artists do prefer to use synthetic hair brushes for oil painting as well. It just depends on the paint they are using and the style of their work. Ultimately, the choice of brush depends on the type of paint you're using and the style/preference of the artist. 

I hope that this has helped clear up any confusion you might have had about natural vs synthetic paintbrushes. Once you become a little more experienced with what you prefer, you'll be able to identify a good brush by looks and feel. A lot of times you'll find that the best brushes for your purpose are not always the most expensive ones, so don't be afraid to experiment with new ones.

Discovering the distinctions between natural and synthetic paint brushes can significantly impact your artistic journey. Whether you consider yourself fancy or not, understanding the features and benefits of each brush type is crucial for selecting the right tool to amplify your creativity. Let's delve into the world of natural and synthetic brushes and explore their unique characteristics.

Natural Brushes: Embracing Tradition and Delicacy

• Natural fibers, such as sable, hog, squirrel, badger, ox, and pony hairs, contribute to the delicate bristles of natural brushes.
• These brushes excel in oil and watercolor painting, as they absorb water and condition well with oil paints.
• While natural brushes hold their shape and offer excellent shape retention, they may not be compatible with acrylics.
• Natural brushes leave visible brushstroke marks, adding character to your artwork.
• Although more expensive, natural brushes evoke considerations of animal rights and environmental sustainability.

Trekell Natural Hair Brushes:

Artist: Elizabeth Zanzinger

Synthetic Brushes: Versatile and Budget-Friendly

• Made of nylon or polyester, synthetic brushes aim to replicate the properties of natural brushes without the need for delicate care.
• They are suitable for acrylics, oils, and watercolors, making them versatile tools for artists.
• Synthetic brushes hold and release paint more efficiently, providing excellent coverage.
• These brushes tend to splay more easily but offer a smoother finish with minimal brush marks.
• Synthetic brushes are budget-friendly and do not exploit animals.
• They are suitable for artists of all skill levels, from beginners to experts.

Trekell Synthetic Brushes:

Artist: Lola Gil

Choosing the Right Brush for Your Artistic Journey

Consider your preferred medium, skill level, artistic goals, and budget when deciding between natural and synthetic brushes. Natural brushes are ideal for oil and watercolor painting but may not withstand acrylic paints. They offer a traditional feel and shape retention, albeit at a higher price point. On the other hand, synthetic brushes are versatile, budget-friendly, and suitable for various mediums, making them an excellent choice for artists of all levels.

Equip Yourself with the Right Tools and Unleash Your Creativity

Regardless of your artistic proficiency, using the appropriate tools is essential for achieving remarkable results. Whether you're embarking on a serious artistic endeavor or enjoying a casual art-related pursuit, ensure you have the right brushes at your disposal. Embrace the nuances of natural and synthetic brushes, and let your creativity flourish with the perfect brush in hand.

Amplify Your Creativity with Trekell Art Supplies!

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