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Watercolour Brushes: Popular Questions from Artists
Jackson’s offers one of the widest selections of watercolour brushes for every technique and budget. From round and mop brushes to flat and filbert shapes, our range includes natural and synthetic options for artists at every level.
Discover top brands such as Da Vinci, Escoda, Princeton, Pro Arte, Raphaël, and Silver Brush, as well as Jackson's own brand brushes, made in collaboration with the world's finest brushmakers. To learn more, explore our Guide to Watercolour Brushes.
A watercolour paint brush is designed to hold water and paint while allowing control and precision. They typically have short handles and soft bristles made from natural hair (like sable or squirrel). They can also have synthetic fibres, such as taklon or nylon.
Watercolour brushes absorb and release water evenly. This makes them ideal for washes, layering, and blending. Their range of shapes allows artists to move between detail and broad strokes with ease. The short handles support fine control when working close to the surface.
‘I found these brushes to have a generous capacity coupled with an even and consistent paint release, which allowed me to paint with confidence, knowing that each stroke would be as vibrant and fluid as intended.
Some artists talk about a brush having a ‘good snap.’ This means the brush can quickly go back to its original shape or point after you bend or flex it while painting. It’s a quality you want in watercolour brushes, especially for techniques that need changing pressure or fast, precise strokes. I discovered that the Jackson’s Studio Synthetic brush has this ‘good snap.’
- Louise De Masi, ‘Review of Jackson’s Studio Synthetic Watercolour Brush’, Jackson’s Art Blog
At Jackson’s, we offer everything from the finest Kolinsky sable brushes to reliable synthetic watercolour brush sets. Our wide range and expert service ensure fast delivery and quality support. Read our reviews →
Shop Watercolour Brushes
Browse our full selection of watercolour brushes at Jackson’s. Whether you're painting fine detail or bold washes, we’ve got the brushes to help. Visit our Help & Advice or Contact Us pages if you need more help.
What is the Best Brushes for Watercolour?
Natural hair (like sable or squirrel) holds water well. Synthetic is often cheaper and easier to control. ‘The Development of Synthetic Brushes’ means it is now the most commonly used brush hair.
What Kinds of Brush Shapes are Popular?
Round, flat, mop, fan, and filbert are popular shapes which support different techniques. Learn more in ‘Understanding Brush Shape Names, Hair, and Applications’.
How Should I Care for Watercolour Brushes?
Rinse after use, reshape the bristles, and let them dry upright. Read ‘Brush Cleaning Tips For Painters’ to learn more.
Does Handle Length Matter?
Short handles give precision up close, while long handles are good for looser, expressive work. Most watercolour brushes have short handles, but there are options with longer handles.