How to Choose the Right Paint Brush

Natural-bristle brushes are traditionally utilized to apply alkyd paint and other finishes that require the use of paint thinner for cleanup. Avoid using these brushes when applying latex paint and other water-base products because the bristles become limp when they soak up water.

For latex paint, choose synthetic bristles. Polyester brushes stay stiff in water, humidity, and heat, and also keep their shape for detail work. Nylon is more abrasion-resistant but can lose stiffness on hot days.

For most projects, you can get by nicely with three paintbrushes: a 2-inch trim brush, a 11/2-inch sash brush, and a 4-inch straight-edged brush. High-quality brushes perform very differently than cheap ones. A good brush has long, tapered bristles set firmly into a wooden handle with epoxy cement, not glue. The bristles are flagged, or split at the ends, enabling them to hold more paint. Look for multiple lengths of flagged bristles packed tightly through a 3/4- to 1-inch thickness for a standard 4-inch brush.

Always test a brush before purchase by holding it as you would during painting. It should feel comfortable in your hand, not awkward or heavy. Test it for springiness, and make sure that it has little fanning and no bristle gaps.