It is usually a good idea to purchase good quality paintbrushes, as they will not only last longer but provide the best results in terms of the finish. However, it may not be necessary to purchase a particularly good brush for jobs such as staining wood or removing dust after sanding down.
When buying paintbrushes check that the bristles are densely packed together. When you fan the bristles against your fingers they should spring back immediately. Even a good quality paintbrush will shed a few bristles at first, but avoid buying brushes that loose too many bristles.
Paintbrushes come in different sizes, the most common being 12mm (1/2 in), 25mm (1in), 50mm (2in) and 100mm (4in). A larger brush 150mm (6in) is generally used for painting walls and ceilings.
Pure bristle brushes
Brushes with synthetic bristles have improved in quality and should be adequate for the DIY decorator.
Synthetic fibre brushes
Brushes with synthetic bristles have improved in quality and should be adequate for the DIY decorator.
Radiator brush
To paint a radiator without removing it you will need a special brush to paint the back of it. The most common type of radiator brush has a standard paintbrush head attached at right angles to a long wire handle.
Cutting-in brush
This type of brush has its bristles cut at an angle so you can get into the corners of window frames without getting paint on the glass.
Fitch
A paintbrush with fine bristles used for detailed paintwork and stencilling.
Dusting brush
This wide, fine bristled brush is used for cleaning dust and dirt from surfaces prior to painting.
Stippling brush
This block-shaped brush has long bristles, which give a velvety texture on surfaces.
Dragging brush
A brush with long, natural, coarse bristles used for creating a professional looking grained effect.
Softening brush
This soft bristled brush is used for removing or reducing hard paint lines.
Bannister brush
This is an excellent brush for painting highly textured masonry walls. Pour the paint into a paint tray and apply the paint using a circular motion. This will work the paint into the uneven surface and produce an even coverage.