If you like crafting, then you know one of the very best tools you can ever have is a paintbrush. Actually, if you are an avid crafter, then you’ll probably need a set or two or paintbrushes for all of your different painting needs. Paintbrushes come in all shapes and sizes, and you may feel overwhelmed when you go to the craft store to buy a new brush or two. That’s not everything-paintbrushes are also very expensive. In order to get the most out of your craft supplies, learn how to pick the correct brush for your needs and then take care of it so that you’ll be able to keep it for a long time.

First, inspect the materials used to make the paintbrushes you see in stores. If you’re going to be doing quick projects with the kids or need to cover a lot of area with a thick coat of paint, consider purchasing foam brushes. At less than a dollar apiece, you can use these big brushes when your work doesn’t have to be tiny or neat-and best of all, you can throw them away when the craft project is finished.

However, most of your crafting needs require a brush that is of better quality. Check out the artist’s paintbrushes, which are usually made from animal hair or a synthetic blend. Stiffer bristles work well for painting on canvas, but most crafters use softer brushes to do detailing work. Pick a variety of sizes so that you’ll have a brush for every project.

After you bring your new brushes home, take them out of the package and clean them with soap and cool or lukewarm water. Never leave you brush standing in water-the bristle glue will loosen and your paintbrush will become misshapen. Instead, rinse thoroughly, blot dry, and rest horizontally to continue drying. Store your brushes horizontally if possible.

When you are painting, keep the paint on the upper half of the bristles. When paint reaches the metal part, it is hard to remove and causes the brush to stick together or lose its shape. Clean your brush often when painting, even if you’re using the shape color. Before storing, clean your brush with soap and water. By following these tips, you can keep your brushes looking as new as possible for as long as possible, and they will help you paint more beautiful projects.

Visit TheGreatBigCraftShop.com for all your craft supplies and accessories. Both US and UK stores are available.