5 Essential Tips for Proper Care of Your Oil Paint Brushes

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 5 min read

Every artist knows the importance of their tools — especially when it comes to oil painting. The right brushes can make all the difference in bringing your vision to life on the canvas. But how do you ensure those brushes last? The key lies in the proper care for oil paint brushes. Here are five essential tips that will help you keep your brushes in top shape for longer.

1. Choose the Right Brushes

The first step to proper care for oil paint brushes is selecting the correct brushes for your art. The right brush can enhance your painting experience and the longevity of your tools. Here are three elements to consider:

Understand Brush Materials

Brushes are made from various materials, including synthetic and natural fibers. Synthetic brushes are often more affordable and durable, making them ideal for beginners. Natural brushes, on the other hand, tend to hold and distribute paint better, making them a favorite among more experienced artists. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right brush for your specific needs.

Select Appropriate Brush Size

Size matters when it comes to brushes. Larger brushes are great for broad strokes and filling large areas, while smaller brushes are perfect for details and precision work. Having a range of sizes at your disposal will allow you to tackle any painting project with ease.

Pick the Right Brush Shape

Last but not least, consider the shape of the brush. Flat brushes are versatile and can be used for a variety of strokes, while round brushes are excellent for detailed work. Filbert brushes, with their rounded edges, are great for blending. Every shape has its strengths — finding the right one for you is a matter of personal preference and painting style.

So, the next time you're out shopping for brushes, don't just grab the first one you see. Remember, the proper care for oil paint brushes starts with choosing the right brushes!

2. Handle Brushes Gently

Once you've chosen the right brushes for your art, the next step in ensuring proper care for oil paint brushes is how you handle them. Brushes are delicate tools and need to be treated with a gentle touch. Here's how:

Avoid Dipping Brushes Too Deep

When dipping your brush into paint, avoid immersing it too deep. Submerging more than the bristles can lead to paint getting trapped in the ferrule (the metal part that connects the bristles to the handle), which can damage the brush over time. A good rule of thumb is to dip only half of the bristle length into the paint.

Store Brushes Properly

Storing your brushes properly is another crucial aspect of brush care. After painting, never leave your brushes standing bristle-down in a jar of water or solvent — this can distort the shape of the bristles and damage them. Instead, lay them flat to dry and then store them upright in a dry, cool area. This ensures the bristles maintain their shape and extends the life of your brushes.

Remember, the longevity of your brushes largely depends on how you handle them. So, be gentle and mindful — your brushes will thank you!

3. Clean Brushes Regularly

Regular cleaning is a non-negotiable part of proper care for oil paint brushes. And no, a quick rinse under running water isn't enough. Here's what you need to know:

Use Quality Brush Cleaner

Not all brush cleaners are created equal. You want to use a cleaner specifically designed for oil paint brushes. A good choice is Winsor & Newton's Brush Cleaner and Restorer. This cleaner is gentle enough not to damage the brush, yet strong enough to remove oil paint residue.

Rinse Brushes Thoroughly

After you've cleaned your brushes, it's important to rinse them thoroughly. This ensures that no cleaner residue remains, which could affect your next paint application. Run each brush under lukewarm (never hot) water, gently swishing it back and forth until the water runs clear.

Dry Brushes Correctly

Finally, drying your brushes correctly is just as important as cleaning them. After rinsing, gently blot the brush with a clean towel to remove excess water, then reshape the bristles with your fingers. Lay the brushes flat on a towel to dry. This protects the shape of the bristles and avoids water pooling in the ferrule.

Remember, a clean brush is a happy brush. And a happy brush makes for happy painting!

4. Maintain Brush Shape

Now that your brushes are clean, let's keep them in great shape. A well-shaped brush not only works better, but it also lasts longer. This is a key part of proper care for oil paint brushes.

Reshape Brushes After Cleaning

After cleaning and drying your brushes, always take a moment to reshape the bristles. Use your fingers to gently form the brush head back to its original shape. This small step can make a world of difference in preserving the life and performance of your brushes.

Use Brush Conditioner

For that extra level of care, consider using a brush conditioner. Products like The Masters Brush Cleaner and Preserver not only clean but also condition your brushes, keeping the bristles soft and pliable. It's like a spa treatment for your brushes!

By taking these steps to maintain your brushes' shape, you'll not only get better results in your artwork, but you'll also extend the lifespan of your brushes. And that's a win for both you and your wallet!

5. Replace Brushes When Needed

Even with the best care, there comes a time when every brush needs to be retired. Recognizing when that time has come is another important aspect of proper care for oil paint brushes.

Know When to Retire a Brush

Every artist's brush has an expiration date. But how do you know when it's time to retire a brush? Look out for signs of wear and tear, like frayed bristles or a loose ferrule—that metal part that holds the bristles together. If your brush is not performing as well as it used to, it might be time to say goodbye.

Invest in Quality Brushes

When it's time to replace your brushes, consider investing in quality ones. Brands like Winsor & Newton or Da Vinci offer a range of high-quality brushes that, with proper care, can last for years. Remember, a good brush is an investment in your art.

Proper care for oil paint brushes is about more than just cleaning—it's about knowing when to say goodbye and making smart choices when buying new brushes. So, treat those brushes with care, and they'll help you create many masterpieces.

If you're keen on exploring innovative ways to create art while maintaining the quality of your paint brushes, check out Noah Ennis' workshop, 'Creating Abstract Paintings Using Common Household Items'. This workshop will not only teach you how to create stunning abstract paintings using everyday items, but also help you maintain your oil paint brushes in top-notch condition.