If You’ve Ever Wondered Which Brush to Use… Start Here! A Beginner's Guide to Paintbrushes

If you’ve ever been to one of my paint parties, you already know — I get all kinds of painters.

Some people show up simply to unwind and enjoy themselves. They laugh with their friends, sip their drinks, and say things like, “Lisa, just tell me what brush to use next!” And honestly… I love that. Painting should feel fun, not stressful. If following along step-by-step is your happy place, then that’s exactly where you should be.

But then there are the curious ones — the guests who pause, tilt their head, and ask:

“Why are we switching to the flat brush?”

“What does this one do?”

“Is there a ‘right’ brush for this part?”

And I love those questions just as much, because that little spark of curiosity is usually the moment someone starts to see painting as something they can grow into… not just something they’re doing for one night.

So to make things easier, here’s a simple rundown of the brushes you’ll see the most, including the ones I usually reach for at my paint parties.

First Things First: There’s No “Wrong” Brush

One thing I always tell people, whether they’re serious or just dabbling, is that brushes aren’t rules. They’re tools.

You’re not going to ruin your painting by picking up the “wrong” one.

You don’t need to memorize a system.

And you definitely don’t need expensive, complicated sets.

Every artist uses brushes differently.

What one person uses a flat brush for, someone else might use a filbert for.

There’s no single “correct” way, just what works for you.

Sometimes you won’t know what works until you try it.

And that’s more than okay. It’s part of the fun.

So… Why Learn the Basic Brushes?

Understanding the main brush types provides a great foundation to begin with.

Not rules.

Not perfection.

Just a little clarity so you feel more comfortable picking up the brush you want.

Here are the main categories I tend to use at my paint parties. (check out my free guide below to see what they actually look like)

1. Filbert Brush

Great for rounded edges, petals, simple blending, and softer shapes.

2. Flat Brush

My best friend at paint parties. Amazing for bold strokes, backgrounds, and crisp edges.

3. Fan Brush

Perfect for quick, loose texture — grass, wispy details, or subtle background effects.

4. Round Brush

The classic “do-a-little-bit-of-everything” brush. Great for curves, outlining, and simple shapes.

5. Liner/Detail Brush

Your finishing touch brush. Thin lines, tiny accents, and little flourishes.

“But Lisa… There Are So Many Sizes. And Shapes. And Brands…”

Yep!

Every brand makes their brushes slightly differently.

A “size 8 flat brush” from one brand won’t be identical to another.

Some feel soft. Some feel stiffer. Some hold more paint. Some hold less.

This is why I say:

Brushes are trial and error.

You learn what feels good in your hand.

And no ... beginners do not need expensive brushes.

Medium-quality brushes that don’t shed and have a nice spring to them are perfectly fine to start with.

If you continue painting and want to explore more, you can always upgrade your brushes when the time feels right.

A Gentle Reminder About “Perfection”

You’ll hear people say:

“Practice makes perfect.”

But honestly?

Perfect isn’t the goal.

And perfect isn’t what makes art beautiful.

The charm, the joy, the expression, that’s in the little quirks.

Those “oops” moments that somehow turn into your favorite part.

What they call the “happy accidents.”

So if you’re sitting there thinking you must choose the “right” brush before you make a stroke… you don’t.

Painting becomes easier the more you explore, experiment, and trust your instincts. Confidence comes from doing, not from knowing all the brush names.

Want a Cute, Simple Guide You Can Save or Print?

I made a free Beginner’s Guide to Paintbrushes just for you.

It’s one page — visual, simple, beginner-friendly, and not overwhelming at all.

👉 Click Here to Get Your Guide

Use it when you paint at home, bring it to a workshop, or tuck it away as a little creative reminder. It’s meant to make painting feel easier… not more complicated.

And most importantly, I hope it helps you feel confident picking up any brush that feels right for you.

You’ve got this. 🎨💗