Winsor & Newton Series 7

[pkess]

I have tried every brand, type and style of brush through the years. For me, I mainly use W&N Series7 and Series 7 minis for all of my painting. I only use two sizes: 000 and 1. You can actually get a sharper point on the 1. The other brushes that I use for laying in large areas and for blending are Badger Hair flats.
I keep two seperate cups of brushes on the table: one set devoted to metallics and another set for everything else. Like Lou, I use a separate container of thinner just for the metallics.
I am notoriously bad for keeping my brushes clean. However, a little jar of dishwashing soap helps to keep the brushes clean. Every few days I dip the brush in water, than the dishwashing soap and swirl it around the palm of my hand, then rinse. It helps to prolong the brushes. As Lou mentioned, red sables are watercolor brushes and are not meant for the harsh use of oils and blending.
Cheap Joe's and Art Supply Warehouse have the best prices.

 

[kidney stone kid]

I have some series 7's, and some of many other brushes as well. Lou, your analogy about automobiles is good. To me, a car is merely a TOOL. Same as a paintbrush. Sure, I want the best quality I can afford, I think everyone does. BUT, at the same time, I don't want something that takes an inordinate amout of time and maintainence. Remember, a car that doesn't run, is a lawn ornament.

As for the argument that they take too much time to clean, I cannot agree. How much time does it really take? A few minutes? It's not exactly the same as building the pyramids, now, is it?

No doubt, WnSeries 7's are GOOD brushes, but, at the end of the day, you have to judge for yourself if they are worth it. BTW, Pete- LOVE the comfort grips!