House Painter Forum

DIY Home Painting => Home Owner's DIY (General painting) Forum => Topic started by: rmichael on March 02, 2007, 01:03:29 PM

Title: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: rmichael on March 02, 2007, 01:03:29 PM
A good paintbrush makes a big difference in your painting project's end result. Here is a very good PDF on what to look for in a brush.
From Dupont
http://www.plastics.dupont.com/plastics/pdflit/filaments/h81033.pdf

Best of Luck with your DIY projects,
rmichael
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: ChuckWagon on April 02, 2007, 06:17:49 AM
That'll help me......thanks
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: jackpauhl on April 17, 2007, 08:05:19 PM
You may find this extra info useful too from my blog. I have a closeup photo of a quality brush next to one less quality.

http://jackpauhl.blogspot.com/2007/04/brushes-closeup.html (http://jackpauhl.blogspot.com/2007/04/brushes-closeup.html)
http://jackpauhl.blogspot.com/2007/04/selecting-paint-brush.html (http://jackpauhl.blogspot.com/2007/04/selecting-paint-brush.html)
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: Stever on April 22, 2007, 01:21:44 AM
Don't be afraid to pay $20 for a good paint brush. It will make painting SOOOO much easier, produce a nicer finish that minimizes brush lines, makes cutting sharp lines against a ceiling or around trim a lot easier, and if you clean it out properly after each use it will last a long time.

I only use cheap brushes when I have no intention of cleaning the brush when I am done. Like when using a shellac based primer that requires methyl hydrate to clean the brush. Throwing away a $2 brush is cheaper than cleaning it.
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: CarlThePainter on June 08, 2007, 11:36:26 AM
>> If you plan on taping-off before you paint then you can use any brush on the market and the following information is meaningless. The following example is for those of us who cut-in freehand without masking tape.<<

What! What about brush marks? I think that a good brush is important whether you tape or not.
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: Bauer on July 19, 2007, 10:34:00 PM
>> If you plan on taping-off before you paint then you can use any brush on the market and the following information is meaningless. The following example is for those of us who cut-in freehand without masking tape.<<

What! What about brush marks? I think that a good brush is important whether you tape or not.

I totally agree.

Even if it is taped off its nice to have a brush that holds a good amount of paint and doesn't look like you used a whisk broom to apply the product.
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: ash_work on July 30, 2007, 04:22:47 AM
plastics.dupont.com/plastics/pdflit/filaments/h81033.pdf

The notes are here!!
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: jackpauhl on August 02, 2007, 10:27:16 PM
>> If you plan on taping-off before you paint then you can use any brush on the market and the following information is meaningless. The following example is for those of us who cut-in freehand without masking tape.<<

What! What about brush marks? I think that a good brush is important whether you tape or not.

Give me a whisk brush and a good gallon of leveling paint. I will show you no brush marks.
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: CarlThePainter on August 03, 2007, 12:06:32 AM
>> If you plan on taping-off before you paint then you can use any brush on the market and the following information is meaningless. The following example is for those of us who cut-in freehand without masking tape.<<

What! What about brush marks? I think that a good brush is important whether you tape or not.

Give me a whisk brush and a good gallon of leveling paint. I will show you no brush marks.

Okay, but why?

Homeowners reading this bulletin board are not all using self levelling paint.  Most of them don't even know what that is.  Using a good brush is always better than using a crappy one.  That's the message that the DIY'ers should be getting from the pros IMO. 
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: Lynjowoman on August 03, 2007, 07:04:40 PM
Sorry Jack, but I totally agree with Carl on this one. Don't try to confuse the DIY's. That is not the point of this forum. It is to help not confuse  :o

Lynjo
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: rmichael on August 03, 2007, 09:50:27 PM
The leveling properties of most latex paints leaves a lot to be desired, and leveling (in general) is directly related to proper application. Pros depend on professional quality tools to help them achieve professional results regardless of the coating being applied. DIYs will do well to start with a good brush..
Save the whisk broom for cleanup...  ;)

rmichael

 
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: funcolors on September 11, 2007, 06:01:55 PM
Working with different painters, it is a real treat to watch some of them take a sow's ear and turn it into a silk purse relying on raw skill and ability more so than uber quality products.  Knowing what corners can be cut without noticeable repercussions is part of the acquired expertise.

Have to agree that DIYers can't cut the same corners the same way no matter how thoroughly you try to explain it.
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: movado on March 15, 2008, 08:45:03 AM
Sometimes as well some very good brushes can have difficulty til broken in which for the DIY may not happen. A brush is like a pair of shoes. Doesn't feel comfy at first then it feels just right and performs well.



Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: Frankie on May 22, 2008, 08:54:21 PM
The leveling properties of most latex paints leaves a lot to be desired, and leveling (in general) is directly related to proper application. Pros depend on professional quality tools to help them achieve professional results regardless of the coating being applied. DIYs will do well to start with a good brush..
Save the whisk broom for cleanup...  ;)

rmichael

 
Yup, work smarter not harder! that's what the pro stores are here for....I have yet to find a better latex brush then the "Purdy Scooter".
hands down the best..
 I have to cut in ceilings without touching the walls allot. and the Scooter is by far the best brush I have ever used. and it's really hard to find. don't know why? I usually just order a box.
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: PaintingPatriot on August 18, 2008, 09:19:38 PM
The leveling properties of most latex paints leaves a lot to be desired, and leveling (in general) is directly related to proper application. Pros depend on professional quality tools to help them achieve professional results regardless of the coating being applied. DIYs will do well to start with a good brush..
Save the whisk broom for cleanup...  ;)

rmichael

 
Yup, work smarter not harder! that's what the pro stores are here for....I have yet to find a better latex brush then the "Purdy Scooter".
hands down the best..
 I have to cut in ceilings without touching the walls allot. and the Scooter is by far the best brush I have ever used. and it's really hard to find. don't know why? I usually just order a box.

Frankie,

Can I get more info on the Scooter, which line of Purdy's is it in (XL, Nylox, Pro Extra, Elite Etc)
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: castlebond007 on September 21, 2008, 09:02:25 PM
for the homeowner its plain and simple; if it does'nt say purdy or wooster.....its crap!....get a 2.5in sash tool!  it'll make cutting in much easier.  We pros use flat brushes cause the ferrels are usually wider, hold more paint and you can pull both directions, therefore higher production. anyway, i've tried just about every brush out there so if you have a specific application i would love to give anyone my advice/opinion.  i basically use the following;  3in.blue bristle purdy swan for walls--2.5insash for int. trimand windows (3infor ext. or flat brush if no window sashes to paint)  now, for special aps like painting over high gloss i use a green label red latex purdy 2.5 sash.....raw block/brick etc...i use a black nylon 3.5 or 4in purdy....and i use a flat or sash white china purdy for oil.....
etc etc.................                                   hope this is helpful.......................
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: jekcah22 on October 07, 2008, 12:45:10 AM
Use a paintbrush or roller brush that holds paint well and doesn't leave
the bristles/lints together with the paint on the painted surface.


-www.courtneyandwise.com.au (http://-www.courtneyandwise.com.au)


Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: Skye on August 16, 2009, 07:41:40 AM
Wow yall,

All the  time I've picked up a paint brush just to put it back down because it just didn't feel right
and felt cheap, I now understand why I've put more brushes back on the shelf rather than
bought them.   Interesting articles about the brushes. I do believe my confusion is cleard up.
Alot more to it than meets the eye ;)
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: Skye on August 16, 2009, 02:23:33 PM
I did see the Purdy brushes in HD while buying my painters tape, and the difference in those
up against all the others didnt even compare.   The purdy (yellow packaging) are so soft
and smooth.  I knew by the price they had to be  some of the best around, but wanted to check in here first, and now you pros have me getting ready go and get my brushes :)
I cant stand it when a bristle comes off the brush and gets in the paint.   :(!!
I have a feeling I wont be trying to get a bristle out of my painting projects with these brushes
 ;D
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: chrisn on August 17, 2009, 05:24:09 AM
The Purdy's sold in the big box stores are not the top of the line brushes you can get at a real paint store.That being said, they will be better than anything else there and most likely serve your purpose.
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: Skye on August 17, 2009, 01:01:06 PM
Thanks Chrisn,

A great tip.

Instead of taking alot of time thinking about where to go for the best paint and brushes,..(not to mention gas money),  the "real" paint stores are the solution.   In my area, I have more and two locations  of BM and SW, not to mention a couple more A+ grade paint stores.

Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: specialkmh on June 11, 2010, 03:24:49 PM
I'm going to start painting this weekend. I had no idea where to begin picking out a brush or roller. This was very helpful! Please feel free to stop by my blog- I will be posting my progress so you can make fun of me! haha

My blog is www.downhomefeeling.blogspot.com
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: Hangman on June 11, 2010, 07:23:16 PM
I prefer the Wooster to the Purdy because of the stiffness, Purdy's always feel a bit soft to me which is ok with thin material but can be frustrating with most latex paints which have more body than stains or poly finishes. Firm or extra firm work best for me with most paints.
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: chrisn on June 12, 2010, 04:12:51 AM
Give me a whisk brush and a good gallon of leveling paint. I will show you no brush marks. :o :o

Right JP, this is VERY helpful, just what every home owner needs to hear.We all know that you are a painting GOD and can do things with paint and tools that no other mortal can, but there is no need for that here.We actually try and help people that do not have you're almighty powers.
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: michaelsaam on February 26, 2011, 12:19:36 AM
Best paint brushes i believe in are Wooster Pro Classics. They are firm brushes and if you know how to use them you can almost do magic with them.  I use a 3" brush practically all the time.  LIttle or big projects. As long as you know what your doing alls you need is about 2-3 hairs for all those hard to reach  areas and your in good shape.  I am a Wooster fan for life when it comes to brushes.  They are firm and I need that being that i am heavy handed.  Im not sure if that matters or not but I can use a purdy but i prefer a wooster. 
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: iowapainter on February 26, 2011, 01:06:26 PM
I use corona or wooster brushes. I had been using purdy. I have found in recent years though that they don't hold up as good as they used to. I think they are starting to cheap out on the amount of bristles. I have also found that newer low VOC paints are thicker and stiffer bristles move the paint along better, especially on new drywall. I have always found that the smoother the surface the softer the bristles you want to use.
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: twistdawrist on March 10, 2011, 09:31:06 AM
I've  been  trying to  find these Wooster  ,extra firm ,  instead of  just ultra , got  real  hooked  and then can't  find  them anymore, I wish  could  just order them myself instead of  the paint store. The purdy's that  I used to  use  are  too soft for anything  resembling  speed, they are  fine  tipped but I am too anxious to  be  going  slow. Often  by the  time  my  soft  brushes  finally suit  me  they are frozen at the  ferrulle, dripping  like a dirty dog,any sensible person  would  have tossed it but I like  to  give em a  final farewell of unglorious use. 
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: JustPaintIt on March 17, 2011, 12:32:10 PM
It also depends quite a bit on what you are using the brush for.  For example if you are making a dog house you should likely go with a cheaper brush unless it is a featured part of your yard.  When it comes to paint brushes though, you usually get what you pay for.  Maintenance is really the crucial part when you have good ones.
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: Aulona on June 14, 2012, 05:18:40 PM
A good paintbrush makes a big difference in your painting project's end result. Here is a very good PDF on what to look for in a brush.
From Dupont
http://www.plastics.dupont.com/plastics/pdflit/filaments/h81033.pdf

Best of Luck with your DIY projects,
rmichael

Nothing new but thanks for sharing.
My fav brush is Purdy. You don't need to know the science behind the making of a paint brush. The more money you spend the better it would do the job.
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: jjpinkfloyd on July 15, 2012, 03:54:20 PM
We stick with Woosters here at (EDIT: LINK DELETED) for 30 years. Cant go wrong. Lasts for years and still draw a perfectly straigfht line! We use Purdy for good dusters! Personally I like a short handle wooden square heel soft nylon blend exploded tip.
Jeffrey

MODERATOR'S NOTE:  YOU HAVE ALREADY BEEN WARNED ABOUT USING SELF-PROMOTING LINKS IN THE BODY OF YOUR POSTS, JEFFREY.  PLEASE, DON'T FORCE ME TO BE A JERK.  WE HAVE RULES HERE FOR A REASON, FOLLOW THEM OR BE REMOVED FROM MEMBERSHIP.  And also note that your logic on spreading your site's links around the web is flawed; nowadays, if the links are not at a RELEVANT site, it LOWERS your SEO rankings.  This particular page of this forum would show no relevancy to your site according to Google's current algorithms and thus would actually contribute to lowering your SEO rankings.  Just FYI.  (So you can thank me for deleting your link at your convenience.)
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: baybgirl908 on November 05, 2012, 10:52:57 PM
i agree with movado. after going through the hard way i learned my lesson
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: Stacy on November 08, 2012, 12:42:42 AM
The type of paintbrush depends upon he surface you want to paint. If you want to apply paint that are water  based then use synthetic brush as it will not absorb the water, otherwise use natural brush bristles it will help to apply paint smoothly and evenly on the surface. 
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: Calman45 on December 05, 2012, 02:37:17 AM
I have to admit, I would typically skimp on paint brushes in the past, but now that my cutting in skills are steadily improving, I would like to invest in a decent nylon/polyester brush (mainly to avoid slight brush marks and blending with roller work.  I've heard Purdy are one of the brands to look at?

All the best,
Cal :)
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: galaxG on July 01, 2013, 02:16:39 PM
I found an answer to the perfect paint brush, or in a sense, the perfect paint brush accessories.

Anyone who has ever painted can relate the pain of holding a paint brush.  galaxG tools' ErgoMaster Pro Anti-Fatigue Paint Brush Handle will change the experience of painting from one of pain to one of comfort.

The ErgoMaster Pro from galaxG tools of Portland Oregon was awarded “Retailers' Choice Awards- Most Innovative New Product” by the North American Retail Hardware Association on May 8th, at the 2013 National Hardware Show® in Las Vegas.

The ErgoMaster Pro holds any size or brand of paint brush and can adjust to fit any hand size.  The handle was designed to mimic the natural resting position of the hand, which gives it the utmost in comfort.  The innovative design places 100% of the weight on top of the hand, rather than in it, allowing the user’s fingers to relax and simply guide.  No longer will those who paint have to suffer from cramping and pain in the fingers and wrist.

These innovative new painting products can be found at galaxg.com, and can be liked on FaceBook as galaxG tools!


Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: Nathan2 on October 02, 2013, 10:49:20 PM
Thank you Michael that will definitely help a lot. And I agree with you a good paint brush is very necessary to get better results in any painting project.

Duplex Architects (http://pza.com.au/profile/)
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: KDPaintingCT on January 26, 2014, 02:07:24 PM
Thanks!
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: concord-painting on February 07, 2014, 03:10:16 PM
Its always nice to have useful information on discussion boards which is very helpful even to others.
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: Rickaroonie on April 15, 2014, 06:49:28 AM
There's not enough time in a day to stress enough on how important a good brush is. Most diy'ers will buy crap simply because they don't know what a good brush is. And it's only $1.29! Not sure if I can put links here but I have a few video's on Youtube. Is it ok to post links?
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: mymint87 on April 15, 2014, 09:19:54 PM
There's not enough time in a day to stress enough on how important a good brush is. Most diy'ers will buy crap simply because they don't know what a good brush is. And it's only $1.29! Not sure if I can put links here but I have a few video's on Youtube. Is it ok to post links?
i dont mind, id love to see em.....i wait until brushes go on sale at the various paint stores in my area, right now frazee is being taken over by sherwin williams so all there line of brushes went on sale at 55% off....i say good brushes?....NO, more like the proper brush for the particular task....a good brush NEVER makes a good paint job
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: shanzy on April 20, 2014, 08:44:59 AM
If you want to know the importance of a good paint brush, purchase a bad and inappropriate paintbrush and use it, results will indicate that how important a good paintbrush is for better paint..........
good luck
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: The Painterman on June 16, 2014, 06:22:09 PM
My go to brush is a good old fashioned American made Purdy XL Glide. Natural wood handle. You can paint an entire house inside and out with one of those and it will still look like you just pulled it out of the cover for the first time. They will run you about $18 bucks for a 3" in my neck of the woods but it is worth every penny. Unlike cheap brushes I have never had a hair come loose during painting or found one that was deformed in the store and I have used Purdy brushes for all types of paints and stains day in and day out for years.

My current daily use interior brush for walls and trim is well over 4 years old and Purdy's actually get better with age as they break in a little as the the hairs become softer and the points more fine. Try and only dip them 1/2 way to 3/4 of the way tops up the hairs, wash fairly regularly with just warm water throughout the day and a brush comb ($4) when using latex and always put them back in their covers at the end of the job to keep their shapes and they will last for a very, very long time.

They hold and apply paint in a way that beats any other brush I have ever tried. Light and comfy to hold in your hand and work with too. 
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: The Painterman on June 16, 2014, 07:12:51 PM
I found an answer to the perfect paint brush, or in a sense, the perfect paint brush accessories.

Anyone who has ever painted can relate the pain of holding a paint brush.  galaxG tools' ErgoMaster Pro Anti-Fatigue Paint Brush Handle will change the experience of painting from one of pain to one of comfort.

The ErgoMaster Pro from galaxG tools of Portland Oregon was awarded “Retailers' Choice Awards- Most Innovative New Product” by the North American Retail Hardware Association on May 8th, at the 2013 National Hardware Show® in Las Vegas.

The ErgoMaster Pro holds any size or brand of paint brush and can adjust to fit any hand size.  The handle was designed to mimic the natural resting position of the hand, which gives it the utmost in comfort.  The innovative design places 100% of the weight on top of the hand, rather than in it, allowing the user’s fingers to relax and simply guide.  No longer will those who paint have to suffer from cramping and pain in the fingers and wrist.

These innovative new painting products can be found at galaxg.com, and can be liked on FaceBook as galaxG tools!

As someone who holds a paint brush for much of the day here are my initial thoughts.

1) The physics behind it make sense however it would seem that the added weight of the handle may INCREASE fatigue and not lessen it.
2) Seeing as I use a 1 gallon paint can as a cut can I would have to remove the handle which each dip seeing as I never fill my cut cans past about 1/3 full. Bit of a time waster there. Also if working on a ladder having to remove and reattached the handle with each dip using two hands would not only be dangerous but one could easily drop it.
3) I have tried various gimmicky painting tools over the years and none have worked better than good old fashioned, classic paint tools.
4) The handle clearly looks like a male specific appendage. Sorry but there it is I said it.
5) $25 bucks is more than I paid for my brush and I use the best brush you can buy.
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: RichardParker on October 18, 2014, 12:52:50 AM
Fantastic information. Most of my brushes have outlived their lives and its time I bought some new.  it's been ages since  I last painted, and finding it difficult to find time.  :'(
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: A New Leaf Painting on November 08, 2014, 08:26:38 PM
Quality doesn't cost you money, it saves you money! A good quality brush is always going to pay you well! Good thread.

Interior Painters Jacksonville FL (http://www.anewleafpainting.com)
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: KoryHanlon on February 05, 2015, 01:31:17 AM
I you want to give a eye-catching looks to your home, you need good paint. But the one think that matters in good painting is paintbrush. Because without good paintbrush you are not able to paint your home in better way... :)
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: Precision Painting on March 31, 2015, 12:44:43 AM
Don't be afraid to pay $20 for a good paint brush. It will make painting SOOOO much easier, produce a nicer finish that minimizes brush lines, makes cutting sharp lines against a ceiling or around trim a lot easier, and if you clean it out properly after each use it will last a long time.

I only use cheap brushes when I have no intention of cleaning the brush when I am done. Like when using a shellac based primer that requires methyl hydrate to clean the brush. Throwing away a $2 brush is cheaper than cleaning it.


Excatly I always invest 30 bucks into a quality brush and take care of them as best as possible...
Title: Re: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
Post by: donalddecor on September 13, 2016, 01:51:34 PM
Investing in a decent brush definitely saves in long run. I try my best not to worried about forking out because it does pay back.
Title: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
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Title: How to Evaluate a Paintbrush
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