Caring for cat's tongue brushes

[Michele Rushworth]

John, can you tell us why you wouldn't recommend soap and water? I use it to get the Gamsol out after rinsing with that first.

[John de la Vega]

Yes, Michele, sable brushes should never be washed with soap and water, or any brush cleaner. They shorten the life of the brush (already somewhat brief when sable is used with oil paint). Gamsol residue will not affect the brush (make sure the last rinse uses clean solution). Once the brush is dry, you can gently stroke the hair to get it ready to paint.

[Michele Rushworth]

Thanks, John. What about hog's bristle?

[John de la Vega]

Bristles lose their shape and also have a shorter life when shampooed, in my experience. I treat them like sables. Synthetics can withstand daily washing, and even with these I don't recommend it after every time you paint.

[Michele Rushworth]

Thanks!