In the fast-paced world of painting, where trends and tool innovations emerge almost daily, there’s something incredibly grounding about sticking with trusted, hand-selected paintbrushes. Recently, a fellow art community member, Pat, reached out with a simple yet thoughtful question: “Which Rosemary brushes would you recommend for Christmas?” This inquiry sparked an idea that has since become a celebration of tradition and technique—a quick list of the very brushes that consistently accompany me on my creative journey.
A Gift for the Creative Soul
At first glance, Pat’s question was a straightforward query about paintbrush sizes and types. But it quickly evolved into a reminder that for many of us, these tools are far more than just instruments—they’re extensions of our artistic vision. With the holiday season approaching, these brushes make for perfect gifts. They’re a way to share the secret weapons behind our art, the pieces that help us translate imagination into tangible work on canvas.
What’s on My Brush Holder?
After a bit of thought—and a helpful nudge from my colleague Kristie to streamline my recommendations—I decided to compile a list of the brushes I use most often. This isn’t a comprehensive catalog of every tool I’ve ever owned, but rather a snapshot of the active members of my brush holder, the ones that have proven reliable over many projects. My current go-to selection includes:
- Rosemary & Co Classic Long Flat: I rely on sizes 8, 10, and 12 for broad strokes and balanced edges. A size 6 also makes regular appearances when I need just a hint of precision without overthinking.
- Rosemary Classic Egbert: My work demands flexibility, and the Egbert series delivers just that. I keep sizes 0, 2, 4, and 6 at hand—with two of the 2 and 6 sizes each—to cover various details and subtle textures.
- Rosemary Series 279 Long Flat: Available in sizes 4 and 6, these brushes are particularly versatile for achieving smooth, extended strokes in landscape and background elements.
- Rosemary Series 274 Short Flat: For tighter, more controlled areas, I turn to the short flats, particularly the 3 and 5 sizes.
- Rosemary Series 278 Long Filbert: Size 1 of this series is my secret for blending and softly merging edges—a must-have for delicate transitions.
- Rosemary Series 272 Round: In situations requiring a rounded touch, the size 4 round offers a perfect balance of precision and flow.
- Utrecht Series 233 White Nylon Sable: My signature brush for detail work, and a personal favorite, has been my steadfast companion for 25 years. Although the exact model is hard to pinpoint nowadays, I often opt for a Robert Simmons White Sable Brush in size 0 as its closest match. Alternatively, the Rosemary Shiraz or Ivory Pointed Round in sizes 0, 1, or 2 can be excellent substitutes for achieving a comparable effect.
- Utrecht Series 207F: Although I once used these in size 6, individual brushes from this series are increasingly rare, and I now recommend seeking alternatives.
Each piece on this list has been carefully chosen through years of trial and error. They’re the brushes that have helped me complete three recent paintings, lending both consistency and a touch of reliability to my work.
The Rationale Behind the Selection
Every brush tells its own story. For instance, the long flats from Rosemary & Co provide that smooth, confident line essential for broad, background sweeps—an integral part of capturing light and form. On the other hand, the Egbert series, with its varied sizes, offers the minute control needed to detail complex textures and intricate details that bring a painting to life.
I’ve learned that the secret to a successful painting isn’t solely in the composition or choice of colors—it lies in the tools we trust. Each brush has its characteristics, and knowing which one to use in a given moment can be the difference between an art piece that sings and one that falls flat. If you’re curious about the nuances of why one might favor Flats over Brights or delve deeper into my experiences with different brush brands, I invite you to check out my posts “5 Oil Painting Tips for Beginners” or “The Ultimate Paintbrush Experiment.”
A Living, Breathing List
Much like any artist’s toolkit, my brush list evolves with every new painting. Although the recommendations above represent what I’ve been consistently using for the past year or two, I’m always open to experimenting. Sometimes a painting calls for something different—but these brushes form the core of my practice, the reliable workhorses that have served me faithfully.
As you navigate your creative journey—whether you’re a seasoned painter or just beginning—it helps immensely to have a clear idea of which tools work best for you. For aspiring painters, consider this list not just as product recommendations, but as an insight into the heart of traditional technique. There’s a timeless quality in using well-crafted, hand-rendered brushes—a small act of rebellion against the fast-paced, digital age where artificial intelligence often overshadows hand-made artistry.
Wishing You a Creative Holiday
So, as you plan your holiday shopping this year, remember that sometimes the best gifts are those that help keep our creative spirit alive. Pat’s query was the spark that led to this brush quick list—a reminder that innovation and tradition can coexist in our studios and on our canvases. May your holiday season be filled with joy, inspiration, and countless hours of creative exploration, guided by the trusty tools that help make your art uniquely yours.
