The Right Types of Paintbrushes and Rollers for Every Job | Purdy

Selecting the right applicator for each job comes down to just a few simple things: quality construction and the tool’s ability to deliver a flawless finish. Brushmakers use a variety of filament combinations to deliver the ideal amount of flexibility, stiffness, cut-in ability, paint holding capacity and more. No matter what your project calls for, simply choosing the right filament or bristle type can make all the difference.

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Types of paintbrush filaments

Thanks to our long-standing commitment to craft and quality, Purdy ® paintbrushes use only the highest quality filaments and materials — helping you tackle jobs with confidence.

Types of roller cover materials

As with brushes, roller covers are made using the finest materials to deliver the perfect application based on the task at hand.

Paintbrush Quality

A quality paintbrush lasts longer, holds more paint and applies paint more evenly. Another benefit? A better-quality paintbrush won't leave brush marks or shed bristles. When shopping for a high-quality paintbrush, look for the following:

Contact us to discuss your requirements of types of paint brushes for walls. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

• A good brush flexes at the tips and springs back into shape.
• Machine distressed, or ‘flagged’ bristle tips are a different color than the bristle. Flagged bristles provide a more even finish.
• ‘Flagged’ bristle tips have been machine distressed and appear frizzy. They also are a different color than the bristle. Flagging enables a brush to hold more paint and give a more even finish.
• The bristles of a good brush flex at the tips and then will spring back into shape when pressure is released.
• When the bristles are pulled apart, a quality brush won’t have a gap in the center, exposing the handle.
• Professional painters prefer an unfinished wooden handle because it doesn’t slip in the hand like painted or plastic handles.
• A firmly attached, nailed-in ferrule (the shaft that binds the bristles together) won’t loosen with use.
• Look for copper or stainless steel ferrules – they don’t rust like tin or nickel-plated ones.

Paintbrush Sizes

Paintbrushes generally come in sizes ranging from a 1” to a 6” wide.

Larger brushes hold more paint than small brushes do, cover more surface area, and cut a wider line. Choose:

• A 4” - 6” wide, flat sash paintbrush for wide-open flat surfaces like long, uninterrupted walls and garage doors. They hold more paint, cover more surface area, and cut a wider line.
• A 3”- 4” wide, flat sash paintbrush for large flat surfaces like walls, doors, and bookshelves.
• A 2 ½” flat sash brush will work for narrower flat surfaces like wide molding, cabinet doors, or baseboards.

Smaller brushes give you greater control. Use…

• A 2” wide angle sash brush for cutting in corners.
• A 1”-2 ½” angle sash brush to paint woodwork and molding as well as projects where precision matters, like the details of carvings or trim work.

Helpful Tip

Paintbrush Bristles: Go for Synthetic

While paintbrush bristles can have either synthetic or natural bristles, synthetic bristles are the most practical. Commonly used by DIY-ers and professional painters alike, they work well with water-based paints like Aura® Interior, ben® Interior, and Regal® Select Interior. Bristle options include:

• Nylon & Polyester—Recommended for latex paints, acrylic paints, and oil-based enamels, these bristles offer exceptional paint capacity and provides the fastest results.
• Soft Nylon & Polyester—Use this type of bristle for all paints, especially semi-gloss and satin finishes. They provide extra flex for smooth application, leave few brush marks, and have an excellent paint capacity.
• Extra-Firm Nylon & Polyester—Good for all paints, especially thick or heavy coatings, these bristles provide a sharp edge for controlled painting, even in hot or humid conditions. Exceptional paint capacity gives you fast results.
• 100% Polyester—Good for all paints, especially lighter or thinner coatings, 100% polyester bristles virtually eliminate brush marks. They also provide superior smoothness and robust paint capacity.

Natural bristles are the best choice for oil-based or alkyd paints, like Benjamin Moore Satin Impervo®.

Are you interested in learning more about wall stencil for painting? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

• White China—These natural bristle brushes are best used with oil-based paints, especially enamels and varnishes. Ideal for woodwork, enamels, or marine applications, White China bristles virtually eliminate brush marks.

Helpful Tip