The job of interior painting goes much faster if you choose the correct brush for the job.
Painting a wall with a brush means knowing the right brush for the right job. One of the most troublesome elements of interior painting for many people is edging. If you've got the right tool for edging, however, it can be a relatively painless endeavor.
Natural-Bristle Brushes
The filaments in natural-bristle brushes come from animals, typically hogs. Use natural-bristle brushes for applying alkyd, or oil-based, paint or any other type of finish that requires cleanup with paint thinner. Do not use natural-bristle brushes for applying latex or water-based paint, because the bristles soak up water and eventually become limp.
Synthetic Brushes
Synthetic brushes primarily use nylon or polyester filaments. Synthetic brushes work well for applying latex- and oil-based paints. Polyester brushes keep their shape and remain in top condition if you thoroughly clean them with soap and water.
Foam Brushes
Foam brushes work best for smaller paint jobs, such as window trim or touching up a problem area. Toss foam brushes instead of trying to clean them.
Artist Brushes
Smaller artist brushes, like those used for canvas paintings, provide precise strokes for achieving a variety of decorative effects, such as faux finishes, and they can also add texture to the paint. Artist brushes also come in handy for painting narrow surfaces, such as window trim.
Stencil Brushes
Stencil brushes feature thick handles and tubular brush ends. Stencil brushes are available in a wide range of sizes and bristle types. Look for bristles that are tightly squeezed together to achieve the best result in stencil work.
Crevice Brushes
One of the most specialized of paintbrushes is the crevice brush. A long, thin piece of metal ends with a rounded head of bristles. The crevice brush allows for easier painting behind pipes and in other places that are awkward or difficult to reach.
Masking Tape
Masking tape is an essential tool for edging. Apply the strip of masking tape along adjacent edges, and use a small-tipped brush to apply paint along the edge.
2-Inch Brush
The best brush for edging in a corner is a 2-inch brush. A brush this small won't allow you to carry a lot of paint from the tray to the corner, but it is much easier to manipulate than a larger brush.
Best Brush for Walls
When painting walls, go with a 4-inch brush. Anything smaller adds time and effort to the process. A larger brush is fine if you have strong arm and hand muscles, but a big brush often places so much stress on your hand that you tire out before you can finish the job.
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