Q&A for How to Use a Paint Brush

Good brushes are made with natural, not synthetic, hair. Look for brushes with wooden handles and hair that is pressed together with a metal strip. Pull gently on the hair. If any come loose, look for another brush. Otherwise, the hair will fall onto the painted surface once you are using it.

Check the label while you are in the store; it will tell you whether the brush is meant for oil or water-based paint. Oil-based paint works better with natural rather than synthetic bristles.

Yes, but it depends on what you want. If you want your paint to be thick on your canvas, use a very small amount of water on the brush or none at all. If you want the paint to be thin and easier to spread along the surface of your canvas, add water to your brush but wipe some off on the edge of your water container so the brush isn't dripping wet.

Keep your hand at the bottom of the brush, about 2-3 cm away from the actual brush itself. For more steady application I recommend you place your elbow on a table or flat surface if you are a beginner.