Walk into an art shop and the wall of brushes can feel overwhelming: round, flat, filbert, fan, rigger, in dozens of sizes and several kinds of hair. The good news is that a beginner needs only a handful. This guide explains what to look for and how to build a small, versatile set.

Know the main shapes

Round: a pointed tip that makes fine lines and, with pressure, broader strokes. The most versatile single shape.
Flat: a square end for bold strokes, straight edges and covering large areas.
Filbert: a flat brush with a rounded end, good for blending and soft edges.
Fan: a spread of bristles for texture, such as foliage or grass.
Rigger (or liner): a long, thin brush for fine lines like branches or the rigging on a ship.

Natural or synthetic hair

Natural hair, such as sable or hog bristle, has traditionally been prized for how it holds paint. Sable is soft and springy, often used for watercolour, while hog bristle is stiff and suits thick oil paint. Synthetic brushes have improved enormously and are generally cheaper, easier to clean and hard-wearing. For acrylics, synthetic is usually the best choice, because acrylic can be hard on natural hair. For a beginner, a mix of good synthetics is a sensible and affordable start.

A starter set to build

A medium round (around size 6 or 8) for general use.
A small round (size 2 or 4) for details.
A medium flat (around 12 mm) for broad strokes.
A large flat or wash brush for covering areas quickly.
A filbert, if you work in oils or acrylics and like soft blends.

That is enough to paint almost anything. Add specialist brushes only when a particular job demands them.

How to test a brush in the shop

If the shop allows it, wet the brush (or ask for a tester) and flick it gently. The bristles should return to a clean point or edge. Check that the ferrule, the metal sleeve, is firmly attached and does not wobble. Look for stray hairs and a handle that sits comfortably in your hand. A brush that feels balanced will be a pleasure to use for years.

Sizes vary between brands

Brush sizes are not standardised, so a size 8 from one maker may differ from another's. If you can, compare brushes side by side. Online, check the listed width and length of the hair rather than relying on the number alone.

Buy fewer, better brushes

It is tempting to buy a large cheap set, but many of the brushes in those packs are rarely used and may lose their shape quickly. You are usually better off buying four or five good ones. Look after them, and they will repay the investment.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need different brushes for watercolour, oil and acrylic? Ideally, yes. Watercolour brushes are soft and hold water, while oil and acrylic brushes are firmer. Using one set for several media can wear the brushes out and mix up residues.

Are expensive sable brushes worth it for beginners? Not at first. Good synthetic or blended brushes are more forgiving and much cheaper while you are still learning.

How do I know when to replace a brush? When it no longer returns to its shape, splays permanently or sheds hairs into the paint, it has reached the end of its useful life.

Steps

Pick the core shapes: Start with a medium round, a small round and a medium flat, which cover most beginner work.
Test before you buy: Check that the bristles spring back to a clean point or edge, the ferrule is secure and the handle feels balanced.