The Painter’s Primary Weapon

Soldiers never go to war unprepared. They always carry with them guns locked and loaded, ready for combat. So is a painter. I believe the most important “weapon” that an artist can’t go without is his brush – or painting knife. The paint would serve as the bullets. The brush is the means by which the painted effects are applied. If you want a particular effect, bold or delicate, it is your brush that will dictate the result which is why it is important to buy the best quality brushes you can afford.

Brushes vary in shapes and sizes, even the make of the tips are very important. Sizes are indicated with numbers. The bigger the number, the bigger the size. In watercolor, you can start with 2 sizes, No.10 and a No.6 round, sable brushes. The quality you get, of course, will depend on the price you pay. Round sable brushes are good for watercolor since it can hold lots of water. They are also soft and apply washes very well. Flat brushes are good for flat washes. There are even big flat brushes for large areas that need an even, flat wash. In painting oil, you will need hard bristle brushes because they can carry paints with large consistency values. You can also use your knife in applying oil paints. Be careful though. Take care of your brushes to preserve their quality so that it will last a long time. Expensive brushes can take a pretty heavy amount of beating. But still, always keep your brushes where it is not too crowded and that their heads are always covered. Also, never leave paint on your brush, especially oil paint, when you are done working. Oil paints, unlike watercolor, are very hard to remove when they dry up. Always clean your brushes after every session for it to be ready for the next. Like soldiers, always keep your weapons ready for combat.

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