PROFESSIONAL OIL SYNTHETIC BRUSHES
Available in a range of sizes across six shapes – bright, fan, filbert, flat, glaze and round – these brushes feature synthetic flagged bristles that replicate the flags of natural hog hair bristle. Flags are basically ‘split ends’ on the bristles that allow for greater colour-carrying capacity and shape retention, qualities that are often found on more expensive brushes. These bristles are both durable and resilient, which makes them ideal for heavy use – I tested them on a variety of supports, including a rough gesso application and a smooth surface.
I tend to be rather hard on my brushes, particularly when working on larger supports, and I can wear down a natural hog brush very quickly. This durability of these synthetic bristles is exceptional; they offered me firm control for a variety of expressive strokes and marks. I look for brushes that are capable of moving heavy-bodied colour over the surface, coupled with good positive mark-making capabilities – these brushes excelled at both. The ergonomic, sculpted handle sits comfortably and securely in your hand, in whatever position you hold the brush and whether you paint in detail or have a looser style.