To an outsider, a brush is a brush. However, to a burgeoning hobbyist or professional artist, a brush is more than just a simple conveyance for paint. It can impact your art in numerous ways—from the feel of the stroke to the final look. 

One question that crops up regularly among artists is, “Should I go with a synthetic brush or natural bristle?” Unfortunately, there’s no universal answer for all artists. Your choice will depend on factors like medium, budget, comfort, and desired effects. 

To help you make an informed decision, this article breaks down the main pros and cons of synthetic and natural brushes. Whichever instrument you choose, visit an art supply store with a vast stock to find premium products right for your art. 

Synthetic Brushes

Synthetic brushes are basically all brushes not made from animal hair. Brush makers typically make their synthetic offerings from nylon or polyester fibres. However, lycra, spandex, or even a combination of the materials listed can find their way into a synthetic brush. 

Well-made synthetic brushes are versatile, capable of capturing a range of textures that mimic natural brushes. 

The Pros of Synthetic Brushes

Don’t let the word “synthetic” throw you off. These brushes carry several benefits, including: 

• Affordability and Accessibility: Synthetic brushes are usually less expensive than natural brushes, making them great for beginners.
• Low Maintenance: They’re easier to clean and maintain, with no need for special care products.
• Allergy-Friendly and Vegan-Friendly: Since synthetic brushes contain no animal-derived materials, they’re suitable for vegans and people with allergies.
• Durability: Quality synthetics can withstand frequent cleaning and use with water-based paints like acrylics.

The Cons of Synthetic Brushes

For all their numerous benefits, there are a few potential downsides to consider, depending on your artistic ambitions. They include: 

• Limited Absorbency: Synthetic brushes are often less absorbent than natural hair, which can make blending more challenging, especially with oils and watercolours.
• Less “Spring” and Texture: Synthetic fibres may lack the natural bounce and texture of animal hair, which some artists find limiting.
• Potential for Stiffness: They can feel stiff or draggy on the canvas, depending on quality and material. This isn’t always the case, but it’s something to be mindful of when shopping for the right synthetic brush. 

Natural Brushes

Natural brushes are—you guessed it—natural. Brush makers typically craft them from animal hair like sable, hog, or ox. 

Artists in certain mediums (looking at you, oil painting) strongly prefer natural, animal hair brushes for their adaptability and unique qualities. 

The Pros of Natural Brushes

If you’ve ever wandered the halls of a historic art gallery, you’ve seen the handiwork of a natural brush, the traditional type used by painters for millennia. Here are a few advantages that past and current artists like about natural brushes: 

• Superior Absorbency: Natural hair holds more paint and water, which is ideal for smooth, blended strokes in watercolour and oil.
• Enhanced Flexibility and Texture: These brushes provide a softer, more responsive stroke with a natural bounce, especially for fine detail work.
• Longevity: With proper care, high-quality natural brushes can last for years, making them a long-term investment.

The Cons of Natural Brushes

Despite their undeniable advantages on the canvas, some people shy away from natural brushes for the following reasons: 

• A Higher Price Tag: Natural brushes tend to be more expensive, especially for premium hair types like sable. 
• Intensive Maintenance: These brushes require careful cleaning and conditioning to keep them in top shape. Many artists are happy to give their supplies some much-needed TLC; others prefer a less demanding tool in their process. 
• Ethical Considerations: As mentioned, natural bristles are made from animal hair, which can be a drawback for vegan or cruelty-conscious artists.

Hopefully, this quick rundown of the pros and cons gives you enough information to make wise decisions for your personal art. However, if you need more guidance, consider chatting to the staff at a reputable art supply store in your area. They can steer you toward fibre types and brands that will elevate your unique projects. 

Published by HOLR Magazine.