A fresh coat of paint can transform any room but the paint brush you use can either make or break your decorating. Paint brushes are made with different materials and the type you pick is vital because it has a huge impact on the outcome of your paint project.
The size and shape of the brush also determine what job it’s used for & what type of paint it can handle. Brushes can be used for a majority of painting projects such as window frames, skirting boards, doors, walls, and furniture.
So what job are you working on and can we help you find the correct paint brush for the job? Let’s find out.
- Features to Consider in Good Paint Brushes
- Top 10 Best Paint Brushes 2023
- 1. Purdy 144153320 XL Series
- 2. Bates Paint Brushes (3" and 2.5")
- 3. Wooster Brush Q3211
- 4. KingOrigin Premium 10 Piece, Paint Brushes
- 5. Stanley 3 Piece Polyester Soft Grip Brush Set
- 6. Proform CS1.0AS 70/30 Blend Thin Angle Sash Paint Brush
- 7. Presa Premium Paint Brushes Set
- 8. Premier Paint Roller 812Z Promotional Poly Brush Set
- 9. Hiltex 00308 Brush Paint Stain Varnish Set with Wood Handles
- 10. Staalmeester Flat 2010 Series Paint Brush
- Guide to Buying the Best Paint Brushes
- Final Thoughts
Features to Consider in Good Paint Brushes
The first feature you should look at on a paint brush is the bristles. There are two types of paint brush bristles and although they both have the same functionality, they both give a completely different texture to your paint work. These two styles of bristles are synthetic and natural hair.
Synthetic Bristles
Synthetic bristles are made with artificial materials such as nylon and polyester. Paint brushes are usually made with polyester bristles as they are durable and they hold their shape well. There are other types of bristles that work well with certain types of paint.
Synthetic bristles can be used with both oil based and water based paints but they work well with latex & enamel based paints too. These bristles don’t absorb the water in the paint which helps spread the paint evenly and the brush will keep its shape.
Synthetic bristles tend to be a lot thicker and are prone to leaving streaks behind. Always make sure the bristles are of quality material so that it doesn’t form unwanted textures on your paint.
Natural Hair Bristles
Bristles that are made from natural elements are usually made with horse or pig hair. This is because these types of hairs are coarse and can hold their shape. Brushes can’t be made from human hair as it will be too soft and difficult to clean.
Natural hair bristles can be used with oil-based and water-based paints but they tend to absorb too much water which can make the brushes difficult to work with. They are best suited for enamel and painting top coats.
Brush Shapes
Different shaped brushes are meant for different types of paint jobs. The most common shape is the flat paint brush. The bristles are all the same length and they come in different widths. These types of brushes are used for broad strokes that spread the paint out evenly.
Another common shape is the angled brush. The bristles on these brushes are short on the one side and slant upwards creating a sharp angle. These brushes are typically used for detail work on skirting boards and window frames.
Brush Size
1″ to 2″ Wide Brushes
These brushes are used for fine detailed work for:
- Window panes
- Skirting boards
- Touch up painting
- Door frames
- Painting around tiles
3″ to 4″ Wide Brushes
These brushes are meant for medium sized objects such as:
- Doors
- Cabinets
- Dressing tables
- Chairs
- Tabletops
4″ Wide or Larger Brushes
The larger width brushes are used for bigger paint jobs:
- Walls
- Rooftops
- Ceilings
- Floors
- Pillars
Now that you know what elements to look for in a quality brush, take a look at the top 10 products on the market at the moment.
Top 10 Best Paint Brushes 2023
1. Purdy 144153320 XL Series
Editor’s Rating:
The filaments keep their shape well and are suited for painting even in the hottest of climates.
Features
Purdy manufactures its paint brushes with a special tipping and flagging process which brings the polyester bristles as close to natural filament as possible. It’s a 2″ angular sash brush with a short hardwood handle that’s ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip.
The Purdy 144153320 can be used with any type of paint such as latex, water based, oil based and enamel paints. With its brushed copper ferrule, the Purdy 144153320 is sure to last as it keeps the brush and handle intact.
All Purdy products are handcrafted in the USA.
Benefits
Purdy 144153320 XL series is the brush almost every home would need as it’s ideal for small surface projects such as furniture, shutters, screens, window sills and moldings. Get into those hard to reach corners with the uniquely designed angular sash.
With the brushes’ versatility, you’re able to complete a number of indoor and outdoor painting projects in no time. The brush creates maximum paint lift and ensures a smooth application with minimum drag.
Purdy also designs its brushes to always keep their shape so after painting and cleaning are complete the bristles will return to their natural state.
Paint Type
The types of paint you can use with the Purdy brush are latex, oil-based paints, primers and stains.
Surface Type
Because this is a large brush you can use it on bigger surface areas such as walls, ceilings, trims and skirting boards.
Specs
- 2″ angular brush
- 3-3/4″ handle
- Item weight 3.2oz
- Hardwood handle
- Filament material of tynex nylon/orel polyester blend
Pros
- Can be used with multiple paint types
- Durable
- Holds its natural shape
- Ergonomic design
Cons
- The handle can be slippery in humid weather
2. Bates Paint Brushes (3" and 2.5")
Editor’s Rating:
The Bates brushes are ergonomically designed and because they’re different shapes you can do more than one paint job with one purchase. The flat brush allows you to work on larger areas and the angular brush aids you in all the small touch up jobs.
Features
Bates brushes are manufactured with thick filaments made from nylon dipping which helps keep their shape. The filaments pick up and hold paint well & spread the paint evenly to create a smooth finish.
Both of the brush handles are ergonomically designed and made with durable wood that won’t chip or splinter. The ferrules that are attached to the brushes keep them sturdy and intact & they’re made from stainless steel. This means the ferrules won’t rust after you clean your brushes.
Benefits
Anyone can use the Bates brushes as they’re light in weight which won’t cause hand fatigue when you’re painting. They’re also durable and can be used for indoor & outdoor painting projects. The Bates paint brushes can even be used for artistry canvas painting.
The ergonomically designed handle ensures a firm grip while you paint so it doesn’t slip, especially in hot weather. Bates makes its bristles thick so that they hold their shape while painting and after you clean them.
These brushes leave smooth even coats of paint on any surfaces. They can be used in any conditions as they’re constructed with high-quality material making them durable.
Paint Type
With the Bates brushes you can use paints such as latex, oil-based paints, primers, stains, varnish and enamel.
Surface Type
With the larger Bates brushes you can cover bigger surface areas such as walls, ceilings, doors, tables and chairs.
The smaller brushes are suited for detail work on trims, skirting boards, window frames, door frames, gutters and rooftops. They can also be used for touch up work.
Specs
- One 3″ flat brush
- One 2.5″ angular brush
- Nylon filaments
- Stainless steel ferrule
- Wooden handles
Pros
- High-quality bristles
- Durable construction
- Holds its natural shape
- Leaves no streaks when painting
Cons
- Isn’t a well-known brand
3. Wooster Brush Q3211
Editor’s Rating:
Wooster is always improving its products so you can be sure that you’ll be getting a high quality constructed brush.
Features
The Wooster Q3211 paint brush is made with a Shergrip handle that measures at 2 1/4″ long and it’s durable & non-slip. This ensures a comfortable grip when you use the paint brush for all your projects. With the integrated hole in the handle, you can hang your brush up anywhere so the bristles get a chance to dry properly.
The white nylon and gold filament blend is thick & gives you a smooth even finish on any surface and leaves minimal streaks. The bristles pick up a hefty amount of product and can spread paint far & evenly.
Wooster manufactures this paint brush with a Brass-plated steel ferrule for durability and it keeps the filaments from falling out.
Benefits
Painting has never been this easy as the Wooster brand ensures that your product brings simplicity to all your painting projects. Its short handle design gives you a comfortable grip and allows you to move the brush the way you need to.
The bristles are durable and hold their shape when painting as well as after cleaning & they’re embedded into the handle tightly. The bristles create an even coat to any paint project and give your surface a pleasant sheen.
Paint Type
The Wooster Q3211 is suitable for all paint types such as latex, primers, oil-based paints, enamel and acrylic. You can also it for stains and varnish.
Surface Type
You’re able to paint large surfaces such as walls, ceilings, doors, tables, chairs and cabinets.
Specs
- 2″ brush
- 2 1/4″ Shergrip handle
- Brass-plated steel ferrule
- Weighs 1.6oz
- Nylon filaments
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Gives an even finish
- The bristles keep their shape
- Convenient handle
Cons
- The handle may be small for some people, creating discomfort
Editor’s Rating:
You get quality and quantity at the same time. The KingOrigin premium paint brushes are designed to work on any surface area fast and hassle-free.
Features
All 10 brush pieces are made with 100% polyester bristles that are easy to clean and they maintain their shape. The bristles come in white with strips of blue and they come in different widths & shapes.
KingOrigin manufactured these paint brush hands with a blue plastic that’s non-slip and light in weight. You’re able to maintain a comfortable grip as the handles have a shape that fits well in most people’s hands. The tips have gold protective layers and integrated holes so you can hang the brushes up.
The ferrules are made from durable stainless steel that’s easy to clean and they’re rust resistant.
Benefits
KingOrigin Premium paint brushes are manufactured with durable lightweight materials that are easy to clean and maintain. These paint brushes fit comfortably in your hand and don’t cause wrist or hand injury when you paint for long periods of time.
You can store them anywhere in your workshop or shed as the holes at the end of the handles allow for easy storage. The bristles are soft yet keep their shape well and they give you an even coat of paint with no drag.
The 10 piece pack allows you to work on many painting projects from indoor to outdoor use and even canvas painting.
Paint Type
You’re able to use the KingOrigin paint brushes with paints such as latex, oil-based paints, enamel and acrylic. You can also use them with varnish, primers and stains.
Surface Type
With the large flat brush you can cover bigger surface areas such as walls, ceilings, doors, floors, cabinets and tables. For detailing and touch up painting you can use the small flat brushes to work on trims, skirting boards, corners, small objects, window frames, handles, door frames and even canvas art.
Specs
- 1/2″ brushes
- 1″ flat brushes
- 1.5″ flat brushes
- 2″ flat brushes
- 2.5″ flat brushes
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to store
- Ergonomic design
- Light in weight
Cons
- The brushes aren’t tapered
5. Stanley 3 Piece Polyester Soft Grip Brush Set
Editor’s Rating:
You also get three different size brushes in a pack which aids you in all heavy duty and artistry paintwork. Stanley manufactures its brushes to bring simplicity to all your painting projects.
Features
The Stanley three-piece polyester brushes come in a yellow design with black rubber tips for the handles. The tips of the handles have integrated holes so you can hang your paintbrushes in your shed or workshop.
The ferrules are made from a rust resistant stainless steel to ensure durability and to keep the bristles from falling out. Stainless steel is also easy to maintain which makes cleaning up hassle free.
Stanley manufactured these brushes with nylon filaments that provide an even smooth surface when you paint, leaving no unwanted textures in your paintwork.
In the pack you get a flat brush, a small angular brush, and a medium angular brush. One purchase empowers you to do more than one type of painting project.
Benefits
With the different sized brushes, you can work on all sorts of surfaces, corners and trims. The different angled edges allow you to get into all those hard to reach places and help you cover a large surface area in a short amount of time.
The handles have an ergonomic design which is light and will fit comfortably in your hand to help you maintain your grip while you paint. Stanley paint brushes are light so they don’t cause hand and wrist fatigue. They spread paint evenly without any drag and they don’t create unwanted textured brush strokes.
These brushes are affordable and will last as they’re made from high-quality material that’s robust & easy to maintain.
Paint Type
The Stanley brushes can be used with paints such as latex, oil-based paints, enamel and acrylic. You can also use them to coat surfaces with varnish and stains.
Surface Type
Large surfaces can be covered such as walls, ceilings, doors, cabinets and floors using the Stanley flat brush. For detail work and touch ups on areas such as trims, skirting boards, corners and window frames you can use the Stanley Angular brushes.
Specs
- 1.5″ long angle brush
- 2″ long angle brush
- 2″ beavertail flat sash
- SRT polyester filaments
- Stainless steel ferrules
Pros
- Easy to maintain
- Soft bristles
- Robust construction
- Easy grip handle
Cons
- May be too big for certain projects
6. Proform CS1.0AS 70/30 Blend Thin Angle Sash Paint Brush
Editor’s Rating:
This brush provides enough paint for touch ups and doesn’t overload the area with too much product. It can be used by artists, hobbyists and professional painters for any type of project.
Features
Proform CS1.0AS bristles are made from a 70/30 synthetic blend that’s durable and easy to clean. The angular shape of the brush allows you to cover small surface areas and to touch up spots in corners & trims.
The wooden handle is non-slip which provides you with a safe and firm grip while you paint. This brush has an integrated stainless steel ferrule which is easy to clean and rust resistant. You’re able to store your brush anywhere as you can hang it up on walls or keep it safe in a toolbox.
Benefits
The Proform CS1.0AS holds its shape well and never sheds bristles or leaves unwanted textures on your work. It’s light and has a thin long handle which helps you reach those difficult areas when you paint.
Proform uses durable materials to manufacture its brushes so that they can last for many painting applications. The Proform CS1.0AS is an inexpensive brush that’s small but can make all the difference to your painting projects.
Paint Type
The Proform paint brush is suitable to use with latex, oil-based paints enamel and acrylic. You can also use the brush to varnish, stain and prime surface areas.
Surface Type
The shape of the brush allows you to work on small surface areas such as trims, corners, skirting boards, window frames and handles.
Specs
- 1″ Angular brush
- 70/30 synthetic blend filaments
- Stainless steel ferrule
- Thin wooden handle
Pros
- User-friendly
- Durable
- Long handle design
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Bristles are too soft
Editor’s Rating:
You get five different size brushes in a pack which helps you with multiple paint projects inside and outside your home.
Features
The filaments are made from a new type of synthetic material called SRT which holds up to 30% more paint and gives your surfaces even textured coats of paint. They’re easy to clean and to maintain & the bristles won’t fall out while you paint.
Presa handles are made from a robust wood that won’t chip and they can be cleaned easily. Integrated into the handles are stainless steel ferrules that are durable and rust resistant so you can work with your paint brushes in wet or humid conditions. It’s also easy to clean with little cause for concern about it rusting afterwards.
Benefits
You can use the Presa Premium paint brushes for heavy-duty work such as painting fences and benches or you can use them in & around the home for DIY projects.
The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip that won’t injure your hands or cause aches and pains as you work. You can maintain your brushes to add longevity as they’re easy to maintain and to store.
After purchasing this one kit you’re able to work on more than one project effectively as each brush has a different size; ideal for different applications.
Paint Type
Presa Premium brushes can be used with latex, oil-based paint, primers, acrylic and enamel.
Surface Type
The small brushes easily cover areas such as trims, skirting boards, corners, small objects, window frames, handles and door frames. They can also be used for detail work on canvas art and touch ups in those hard to reach places.
The flat brushes are used to cover large surface areas such as walls, ceilings, door, floors, and cabinets.
Specs
- Two 2 1/2″ flat brush
- Two 2″ Flat brush
- 1″ angular brush
- Wooden handles
- SRT filaments
Pros
- Robust
- Ergonomic desig
- Easy to store
- Comes with five different size brushes
Cons
- Doesn’t hold paint well
8. Premier Paint Roller 812Z Promotional Poly Brush Set
Editor’s Rating:
The Premier Paint Roller 812Z brush set is designed to work on a multitude of pain projects from canvas art to heavy-duty outdoor paint jobs.
Features
These Premier brushes are made from 100% polyester filaments in a dark brown design. The bristles are easy to clean and maintain as they hold their shape well & don’t come apart when you’re working.
The handles are made from a robust hard plastic that fits well in your hand to ensure comfort and a safe grip. The integrated ferrule is made from stainless steel that’s rust resistant and easy to clean.
You’re able to store these paintbrushes by hanging them up or you can store them in a toolbox.
Benefits
The Premier Paint Roller 812Z brush set includes versatile brushes that are easy to use and maintain. They shed hours off of your painting projects as the high-quality filaments give minimal drag and leave no streaks or unwanted textures on your projects.
They’re designed to bring simplicity to your paint projects as they hold paint well and they give you a clean even coat on any surface. The bristles maintain their natural state even after cleaning. Premier brushes are durable and will last for many painting applications.
Paint Type
The Premier Paint Roller 812Z brush set is designed to be used with most paint types such as latex, oil-based paints, acrylic and enamel. You can also use the paint brushes to coat surface areas with varnish, primer and stains.
Surface Type
You can use the small brushes for touch up work in corners and hard to reach places or for detail projects such as trims, window frames, skirting boards, fences, desks, chairs and door frames.
The large flat brushes can be used to cover surfaces areas such as walls, ceilings, floors, cabinets, chairs and tables.
Specs
- 1 1/2″ angle sash brush
- 1″ brush
- 2″ brush
- 3″ brush
- 100% Polyester filaments
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Used on multiple projects
- Easy to clean
- Durable
Cons
- Sheds bristles
9. Hiltex 00308 Brush Paint Stain Varnish Set with Wood Handles
Editor’s Rating:
They’re manufactured with high-quality materials so your paint brushes will last you for many painting applications.
Features
These brush bristles are made from polyester and have feathered ends which aid in holding paint. They’re easy to clean and to maintain; all you have to do is use warm water & soap or turpentine depending on the paint you’re using.
The handles are made from a durable wood that doesn’t chip and they provide a non-slip grip which helps you work even when your hands are clammy. They’re light in weight so they won’t weigh you down while you’re working on heavy-duty paint projects.
All the brushes’ ferrules are made from durable stainless steel that holds the filaments tightly to the handles so they don’t shed. The ferrules are rust resistant so you can work with your paint brushes in any weather conditions and it makes it safe to clean with water when you’re done.
Paint Type
Hiltex brushes allow you to work with paint types such as latex, oil based paint, enamel and acrylic.
Surface Type
The small Hiltex brushes are suited for touch ups and detail work on surfaces such as trims, window frames, door frames, fences, toys, and even canvas art. Large Hiltex brushes are used for walls, ceilings, doors, tables, chairs and floors.
Specs
- 1″ flat brush
- 1 1/2″ brush
- 2″ flat brush
- 3″ flat brush
- 2 1/2″ flat brush
Pros
- Versatile brushes
- Inexpensive
- Leaves a smooth finish
- Easy to clean
- Durable
Cons
- Sheds bristles
10. Staalmeester Flat 2010 Series Paint Brush
Editor’s Rating:
A Staalmeester brush holds the right amount of paint and spreads the paint evenly on any type of surface. The bristles are durable and won’t shed when you paint.
Features
The handle is made from traditional Birchwood for an ergonomic grip which aids you in completing your projects fast. The bristles are made from a mixture of synthetic and natural filaments that help even out even the most stubborn thick paint.
For durability, the ferrule is made with stainless steel and screwed into the handle to keep the bristles tightly in place. The ferrule is easy to clean and won’t rust or break.
Benefits
The Staalmeester flat paint brush is meant for all those large projects that need to be done in a short amount of time. You’re able to use wide strokes on bigger surfaces as it spreads the paint evenly and provides a thin coat that won’t crack up or run.
You can use this brush on all sorts of painting projects such as interior design, palisade fence painting, walls, tables and chairs. Varnish works exceptionally well with the Staalmeester flat paint brush.
Paint Type
The Staalmeester flat brush can be used with latex, oil-based paints, primers, varnish, stains, enamel, and acrylic.
Surface Type
You can cover large surface areas such as walls, floors, ceilings, cabinets, doors and tables with the Staalmeester flat brush.
Specs
- 2″ flat brush
- Birchwood handle
- Stainless steel ferrule
- Natural and synthetic filaments
- 3.2oz
Pros
- Works well with varnish
- Holds paint well
- Bristles keep their shape
Cons
- Not a well-known brand
Guide to Buying the Best Paint Brushes
In order to keep your brushes from deteriorating over time, you will need to know how to clean and maintain them.
How to Keep Your Brushes Clean
It’s important to keep your brushes clean after every paint project but the type of paint you use determines how you should clean them.
Removing Water-Based Paint
Cleaning off water-based paint is probably the easiest because all you need is warm water and soap. Wash your brushes with a liquid soap but be careful not to make your water too hot. Some brands use glue to keep the bristles intact and hot water will loosen the glue & break your brush.
You can also run the brush under a warm faucet and work your fingers through the bristles until all the paint comes off. When the water runs clear it means all the wet paint is out of the brush.
Removing Oil-Based Paint
Removing oil paints from your brushes can be tedious but cleaning your brushes before the paint goes hard will make it easier. Use a solvent in a bucket and soak your paint brushes for a short amount of time. Be sure to do this in a well ventilated area, as the fumes can be strong.
Don’t soak the brushes for too long as this will damage your paint brushes.
Use a Bristle Brush
If bits of paint are stuck in the bristles after you’ve washed them, you can run a bristle brush through the filaments. This will loosen up the bits of paint and it will also reshape your brush & keep it smoothed out.
Dry Your Brushes Thoroughly
After you’ve cleaned properly dry the bristles on a clean towel or dab paper towels around the flat areas of the bristles. Never pull the bristles down when you dry them as this will cause them to bend out of shape.
How to Store Your Paint Brushes
It’s important to store your paint brushes correctly to maintain the shape of the bristles. You can keep the brushes’ original packaging to store them after you’re done painting. If you don’t have the original packaging you can always wrap the brushes in magazine paper.
Some brushes have holes at the end of the handles which allows you to hang them up in your workshop, shed or garage.
Maintaining the shape of the brush is important because you don’t want a fanned out brush when you work as it’s difficult to stay accurate with such a tool. Fanned bristles will leave streaks and an uneven coat on your surface.
How to Revive a Dried Out Brush
Sometimes when you leave your brushes soaking in a solvent the bristles dry out and this leaves streaks on your surfaces when you paint. To revive a dried out paint brush you can rub linseed oil into the bristles to soften them up again.
You may have to repeat the process a few times depending on how dry the bristles are.
Final Thoughts
If you have a low-quality paintbrush it can show in your work so it’s best to invest in brushes that are constructed well and that are easy to maintain. You’ll be able to keep your brushes from breaking if you look after them and keep them stored in a safe place. That means the brush you purchase today will be a long term investment.
Invest in a high-quality versatile set of brushes today to help you make your paint projects look flawless. Thanks to this one buy your next project can seem like a pro’s work.