Painting walls and ceilings requires a high-quality brush to achieve a smooth finish. Natural and foam brushes can be used, but synthetic brushes are generally better for painting walls. They carry enough paint, leave a smooth finish without leaving loose fibers, and can be washed and reused many times. For oil-based paint, a natural bristle brush such as black porcelain, ox hair mix, or white porcelain may be a better option.
However, avoid using a natural bristle brush to apply water-based finishes. The bristles will absorb moisture and become too soft. The Wooster Brush Company offers quality brushes for every variety of available coatings. If it will be several hours before you return to the project, you can prevent the brush from hardening by wrapping the entire brush head, including all the bristles, in plastic wrap.
For a smoother finish, hold the brush at a 45-degree angle and place the paint on the surface with very little pressure. Chinex brushes are suitable for oil or water-based paints and, like natural bristles, leave a soft, thick coat of paint. The Wooster Silver Tip brush is one of the best you'll find for this task and is a favorite of professionals and DIYers alike. When choosing brushes for painting walls, consider the type of paint or varnish you are using, as well as the size of the area you are painting.
For larger areas such as walls and ceilings, choose a high-quality 6-inch bristle brush. Synthetic brushes are generally better for painting walls than natural or foam brushes. If you're using paint or varnish that can be cleaned with water, choose a brush with synthetic bristles. For oil-based paint, a natural bristle brush may be a better option.
Avoid using a natural bristle brush to apply water-based finishes. The foam brush is 2 inches wide and has a slightly chiseled edge for smooth application of any type of paint, varnish, dye or similar product. The Deck Boss applies a thick, uniform layer of dye or paint to wood and concrete, even on rough or uneven surfaces. Traditional and experienced painters will say that there's nothing like the finish that a Chinese bristle brush can provide for oil-based coatings.
Now that you know what you should consider when choosing brushes for painting walls, what brushes do we recommend? If you want to create a smoother and more precise finish, choose a synthetic bristle brush that is dense and has trimmed bristles.
