Creating a masterpiece starts with the right tools. At Harris, we’re here to provide an artistic painting brush guide that you can refer to for your artistic journey. Choosing the right brush can elevate your work and bring your vision to life.

Acrylic brushes usually have synthetic bristles because they are durable and can withstand the quick-drying nature of acrylic paints.

For oil paints, synthetic bristle brushes offer the strength and resilience needed to work with thicker textures while maintaining their shape.

Our soft synthetic brushes are ideal for watercolours, as they hold plenty of water and create smooth, flowing washes.

Small Brushes:
Best for fine details, fine lines, or intricate work.
Medium Brushes:
Great for general-purpose painting, medium detail, and blending.
Large Brushes:
Used for covering large areas or creating bold strokes.

Good for bold, straight strokes, filling large areas, and creating sharp edges.

Excellent for fine details, lines, and curves. Versatile for both fine lines and larger strokes.

A combination of flat and round, ideal for soft, rounded strokes and blending.

Ideal for precision, creating sharp edges, and painting in hard-to-reach corners.

Used for texture effects like foliage or clouds.

Typically used for watercolours to create soft, smooth washes.
Synthetic Bristles: These are made from man-made fibers (such as nylon or polyester). They’re durable, easy to clean, and affordable. Good for acrylics and watercolours.
Pros: Cost-effective, long-lasting, versatile.
Cons: Might not hold as much paint or provide the same smoothness as natural bristles, especially for oils.


Choosing between the different types of artist paint brushes can be tricky, however in doing so you ensure longevity and optimal performance. Different brushes are designed for specific textures and consistencies, so always choose accordingly.

High quality brushes not only perform better but also last longer with proper care. Look for well crafted brushes made from durable materials to enhance your painting experience.

Always clean your brushes immediately after use. Use water for acrylics and watercolours, and appropriate solvents for oils. Gently reshape the bristles before drying to maintain their form.

As part of our artist painting brush guide, we highly recommend storing your brushes upright or laying them down flat in a protective case. Avoid leaving them in water or solvents for extended periods, as this can weaken the bristles and handles.



Harris paint brushes are crafted with natural bristles and synthetic filaments, ensuring superior paint pick-up and coverage with minimal bristle loss. Perfect for painting window sills, as consistent application is essential.

Our ‘Seriously Good’ range provides high quality brushes that perform well with minimal effort, while the ‘Ultimate’ range is designed for a perfect finish performance, featuring innovative technologies ideal for achieving a flawless finish with your window sills.

The Harris Ultimate Paint Brushes come with a no bristle loss guarantee, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted painting experience.
Larger brushes (sizes 10+) are great for broad strokes and background work, while smaller brushes (size 2-6) are ideal for intricate details and fine lines.


