Sometimes a few simple tips and tricks can make all the difference to getting your painting techniques perfect. Before you begin you will need to chose the correct brush for the job. We recommend the Haydn Leeda brush range for applications where you require precise control and a great result. These brushes really are “The Leeda of the pack”.

Styles of brushes

For painting large surfaces you will likely want to use an oval brush which allows for a best paint loading and evenly distributes paint. The bristles are shaped into an oval at the head of the brush to make it easier to fit into or around contoured or profiled surfaces.

For narrow or oddly shaped areas you may prefer to use a sash brush. These brushes allow for more precise control and allow you to get into corners and follow the shape of the object better. The shape at the head of the bristles prevents the brush from splaying out. As sash brushes have a longer thinner handle it is easier to maintain control and get to those difficult places and also ensure a decent coat of paint.

For your cutting in work you may wish to use an angled sash brush. These brushes have their bristles tapered to give you greater control for fine work. Ideal uses include skirting boards and panel doors.

The correct grip

Once you have chosen your brush you need to know which grip will be best based on your choice of brush. The thin handled sash and angled sash brushes have pencil handles and should be gripped like you would hold a pencil with the thumb and two fingers. You can use this grip to achieve precise control over the brush and get a brilliant result. The wider brushes such as the larger oval brushes require a stronger grip and can be gripped in a similar way you would grip a tennis racket. This is ideal when painting larger flat surfaces.

Cutting in

We all know that cutting in is the more tedious part of the painting process that can make a huge impact on the final result. When cutting in the brush you use is very important. You cannot get away with a cheap brush even with the best of paints. The sash and angled sash brushes in the Haydn Leeda range are ideal for cutting in. Typical sizes for cutting in are 38mm, 50mm and 63mm depending on your application.

When it comes time to start cutting in ensure your work area is well lit. Cutting in requires you to be precise and seeing what you are working with helps. Grip your brush using the pencil technique and try not to apply too much paint. A smooth even surface will look best.

Remember that cutting in takes practise. Over time your proficiency will improve significantly. A professional look is possible by using these tips and tricks and some patience and practise.

Tips and tricks

• Some paints will not cover other colours in a single coat – rather than try to layer the paint on thicker do multiple coats
• It is better to make the strokes upwards rather than downwards so the paint is pulled out of the brush rather than being pushed by gravity
• If the brush becomes too dry don’t try to force the paint out of it – ideally keep the amount of paint on the brush as consistent as possible to ensure a uniform finish
• Clean your brushes immediately after use with the recommended cleaning agent and use a brush comb. For water based paints use cold water. For oil based paints use turpentine or chemical recommended by the supplier of the paint to remove the paint and finally rinse and clean in warm water.

Products mentioned in this article