Are you going to work with gouache and are you curious which brushes work best for this? In this blog I explain which properties good brushes for gouache have. In addition, I also share why I like to use the Princeton Velvetouch and Princeton Select with gouache.
What makes a brush suitable for gouache?
When working with gouache, there are a few important features to look for when choosing your brushes. For me, the firmness of the hairs and the flexibility of the brush are especially important. The explanation in the blog can be used for both traditional gouache and Holbein's acrylic gouache . The consistency of the paint is similar.
Firmness of the Hair:
Gouache has a thicker consistency and is heavier in weight than watercolour for example. So you need brushes with hairs that are firm enough to hold the paint well but also release it evenly.
Flexibility:
While the bristles need to be firm, it is also important that they are flexible enough to create fine details and flowing lines. This gives you the control you need for both precise details and broader brush strokes.
Versatility:
Gouache is a versatile paint. You can use it undiluted, which makes the paint quite thick in structure, or diluted so that it looks more like a watercolor. So it is nice if you have brushes that can handle both. That makes mixed media brushes very suitable for gouache.
Sustainability:
Brushes are an investment and should be able to withstand regular use and intensive cleaning. We consciously only sell synthetic brushes, for ethical reasons. However, synthetic hairs have the added advantage that they are often easier to clean than natural hairs and can therefore last longer.
Our Favorites: Princeton Velvetouch and Princeton Select Brushes
After much experimentation and testing, I have selected two favorites. The Princeton Velvetouch and Princeton Select brushes work best for me on gouache projects. Here is why:
Princeton Velvetouch Brushes
Versatile Brush Shapes:
The Velvetouch series offers a wide range of brush shapes and sizes. Whether you want to draw detailed lines or fill in large areas, there is a Velvetouch brush that fits exactly what you are looking for.
Comfortable painting
The soft, velvety handle of these brushes feels comfortable in your hand. After hours of painting, you'll notice the difference.
Excellent Control:
The firm yet flexible hairs of the Velvetouch brushes give you excellent control over your paint. This is especially important for gouache, where you want to create precise and detailed lines.
Artist quality
The Velvetouch range is made with artists in mind. There is no compromise on quality, which is why they work so well.
Princeton Select Brushes
Many different shapes of brushes
The Select series is designed with a variety of painting techniques. From line work to dots and washes, there is a brush in this series that is perfect for the task you have in mind.
Sustainability:
These brushes are built to last. The synthetic bristles are sturdy and resistant to wear, even with heavy use with gouache.
Affordability:
Although the quality is high, the Princeton Select brushes are affordable, making them a great option for both beginners and advanced artists.
Study quality
Good quality, for a good price. If you are looking for a good price-quality ratio: then the Select brushes will fit your requirements.
Conclusion
Both brush series have bristles that are firm enough to handle the thickness of gouache, but flexible enough to create fine details. This gives you the control you need for different techniques. You can also use these brushes for different materials: so these brushes are also suitable for acrylic paint and watercolor paint.
In our shop you will find both the Velvetouch and the Select brushes .
Love,
Judith
