Oil paint brushes

Oil brushes come in various shapes, each with its own strengths in terms of paint application. Some of the most popular types of brush heads are:

• Round brushes - good for covering large areas, but also for applying finer detail
• Flat brushes - best for spreading thick layers, chiselling edges, and covering large areas
• Filbert brushes - easy to recognise by the flat belly with a rounded end, best for blending or softening hard edges
• Fan brushes - best for adding textures and details like hair and foliage

Read our guide on brush shapes for more details.

Brushes come in two options, natural and synthetic hair, and the hair type choice purely depends on your needs and preferences.

Synthetic fibres have seen great advancement in recent years and are now able to match the qualities of natural hair, with many giving the same feel and effect.

Natural fibres tend to be delicate and hold their shape well. They excel in oil and watercolour painting, but are not very compatible with acrylics. They require a lot more care, but the effort might be worth it for the amazing brushstroke textures you can achieve.

When using oil brushes, it’s important to clean them right to preserve their shape and quality long-term. After you’re done painting, use a rag to wipe away the colour, then swirl your brushes around in a jar containing mineral spirits or brush cleaners. After that rinse the brush under warm water until the water runs clear of colour and soap, then wipe one last time.

As a general guideline, the higher the brush number (usually found on the handle), the bigger the brush will be, as seen below:

• Above size 6 - great for broad strokes and large surface areas
• Between 4-6 - great for smaller areas
• Below 4 - best for detailed, intricate work

Choose the size that best suits your needs and preferences, but don’t be afraid to experiment - that’s what art is all about!

If you’re new to this medium and unsure where to start, we recommend giving our guide to oil painting a quick read. Once you’ve got the basics covered, all that’s left is getting your oil paint supplies ready, and lots and lots of practice!

Yes, we offer free shipping on all UK art supplies orders over £30.

You can return items to us within 30 days of purchase for a full refund, subject to them being in good condition and in their original packaging. This will have to be done at your own expense and using your chosen carrier.

If your order contains faulty or damaged items, please email sales@loxleyarts.co.uk, and our team will assist you. Please email us clear photos of your faulty/damaged item within 3-5 days of receiving your order.

Yes, we do! Go to our wholesale enquiries page to find out more about how you can stock our premium products in your store.

Yes! At Loxley Arts, we are committed to protecting our environment through sustainable manufacturing practices such as using ethically sourced wood and acid-free products.