6 Types of Paintbrushes for Acrylic Painting

When making visual art, the tools are as important as the medium and the subject. In drawing, painting, sculpting and other art forms, the ideal pencil, knife or acrylic paint brush makes the project easier and more rewarding.  

Selecting the right types of brushes for acrylic painting allows you to achieve the desired effects and enhance your artistic techniques. Because acrylic paint is thick and almost sculptable, the painting techniques are significantly impacted by the brush shapes. 

This post provides an overview of different types of long-handle paint brushes for acrylics (synthetic and natural hair brushes), detailing their uses and benefits for both beginners and experienced artists.

1. Flat Brushes

A staple among acrylic paint brushes, flat brushes hold a lot of paint for covering and blending large areas. Flexible and rectangular, they have squared-off ends and work well for painting delicate lines and edges. Flat brushes are also ideal for creating bold, sweeping strokes.     

Large, flat brushes are beneficial for applying glazes and varnish to things like furniture and wooden sculpture. Because they hold a lot, and the application is even and smooth, you’ll get a consistent finish relatively easily.  

2. Round Brushes

An acrylic paint round brush is rounded at the bottom and tapers to a point at the tip. Some round brushes reach a very fine, precise point, while others are more rounded at the top. Depending on the tip’s precision, round brushes offer versatility for fine lines and other detail work.   

Round brushes can be used for various brush strokes and intricate designs. While longer bristles cover a larger area, shorter bristles allow more control. With both, the more pressure you apply, the thicker the brush stroke.  

3. Filbert Brushes

Think of an acrylic paint filbert brush as a combination of flat and round brushes. The base of the bristles is flat and rectangular, but the tip is gently rounded. The rounded edges allow you to easily create soft brush strokes.  

Filbert brushes are ideal for blending and creating smooth transitions between colors. They can also be used for details like flower petals, roof shingles and textures on fabrics or water.  

4. Fan Brushes

With a distinctive shape from other acrylic paint brushes, a fan brush is designed for a range of interesting techniques. The bristles are tight together at the bottom, and point up and outward to make a flat fan shape.  

Fan brushes are ideal for creating textures and natural effects, such as foliage and clouds. From the fine details of nature to the special effects of imaginary worlds, the fan brush is versatile enough to make a variety of lines and textures. Opt for one with durable bristles to avoid clumping.

5. Synthetic vs. Natural Bristles

You can choose between synthetic brushes and natural brushes for acrylic painting. Synthetic bristles are made of things like nylon and polyester, while natural bristles are often made of hog hair.    

Both types can be quality brushes and work well with acrylic paint. A hog bristle brush, however, will hold its shape after repeated use better than a synthetic brush can.    

Natural brushes may be recommended for their texture–the natural material is likely to have tiny “imperfections,” such as split ends, that add a subtle texture to the acrylic paint. That, along with the shape-holding and historical use, might make natural bristles appealing to you. 

However, the advantages of synthetic bristles for durability and ease of cleaning are important as well. Natural bristles are more easily damaged from sitting in water or the acrylic paint itself, while manufactured bristles don’t mind the repeated exposure. Their smooth surfaces also make them far easier to clean.  

6. Specialty Brushes and Tools

With its thick consistency, acrylic paint works well with a wide range of specialty brushes and tools, especially as it can be watered down to reduce its thickness. 

For fine details, like sharp edges and writing, try a liner brush. These long, extremely thin brushes have fine points to work almost like an ink pen. You may need to thin your paint to make it flow more easily from the brush.   

Try a bright brush for spots of intense color and bold strokes. Essentially a flat brush with very short bristles, this brush is ideal for dabs of color and scrubbing-type movements. 

Consider trying additional tools, like palette knives. If you’re working with multiple, thick layers on the canvas (called “impasto”), you need a tool that moves the paint more effectively than a brush. The benefit of a palette knife in impasto techniques and texture creation can’t be overstated.  

Also consider sable brushes, more commonly used for watercolor painting and oil painting than acrylic. The bristles are made of weasel hair and make for high-quality watercolor brushes. However, you can certainly try them with acrylics; simply be mindful that they aren’t designed for heavier paint.  

Grow Your Painting Skills with the Right Brushes

Have some fun as you experiment with different acrylic paint brushes and brush sizes to discover your preferences and enhance your painting techniques at the easel. The art supplies you select are an important part of the artistic process, so finding what works for you is vital. 

You can also explore step by step tutorials and resources, such as classes on Skillshare, to further develop your skills and knowledge. Find support and inspiration with classes like:

• Acrylic Painting for Beginners
• Acrylic Painting Basics
• Paint Brush Care

Whether you’re new to acrylic painting or a veteran, guidance from the experts offers a fun and fresh perspective. Happy painting! 

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Written By

Katie Mitchell

Katie lives in Michigan with her husband, kids and pets. She enjoys cooking, travel and live music.

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