Like most artists, you want to make sure that you are taking the best care possible of your paint brushes. Not only do you want to preserve the quality of your brushes, but you want to preserve their lifespan as well.
There are a few errors that people make when cleaning paintbrushes, and you do not want to make these mistakes as well.
So, without further ado, here are the most common mistakes people make when washing paint brushes.
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1. Letting the Paint Dry on the Brush
One of the most made mistakes when washing paintbrushes is letting the paint dry out on the brush. This will ruin the bristles of the brush, making it difficult, if not impossible, to use for painting in the future.
It is important to clean paint brushes immediately after use by running water over them and using a brush comb to remove any paint stuck between the bristles.
2. Leaving the Brushes Soaking for a Long Time
This can cause the bristles to become softer, making it more difficult to maneuver on the next painting project. It can also cause the handles to warp and discolor.
Soaking brushes for too long can quickly the bristles to fall out, leaving your brush reliable and useful. To prevent any of these mistakes, it’s best to use the shortest soaking time possible but ensure the brush is thoroughly cleaned.
3. Washing Paint Brushes on the Sink
It is common to rinse a paintbrush in the sink, but this is one of the biggest mistakes painters can make. This can cause an unsanitary buildup of paint in drain, and clog the pipes.
It is also possible that paint that removes from the brushes can damage pipes and drains. To avoid these issues, painters should know where to wash paint brushes and use a washing basin designed for this purpose.
4. Not Knowing How to Wash Paint Brushes Properly
Another mistake to avoid when washing paintbrushes is not knowing how to wash them properly. It is vital to know the proper technique for cleaning and preserving paint brushes to keep them in the best condition possible.
Instead of using soap and water, one should use a paintbrush cleaner designed specifically for this purpose. It removes the most paint residue and leaves the bristles in the best condition.
5. No Using a Solvent to Remove Paint
Another critical common mistake to avoid is not using a solvent to remove paint. Solvents, such as mineral spirits or turpentine, are ideal for dissolving paints or art mediums from brushes, removing most types of paint.
Not only will they provide a thorough cleaning, but they will also help preserve the shape and quality of the brushes. Not using a solvent can result in the paint becoming dried and matted in the bristles, making it difficult to spread the paint and damage the brush.
Washing Paint Brushes Properly Will Prolong Their Life
Washing paint brushes properly is a crucial step in any painting job. Ensure you avoid common mistakes such as mismatching cleaning solutions and allowing the paint to dry on the bristles.
Remember, taking the necessary steps to clean paintbrushes will help you in the long term. Invest in a quality paint brush cleaner and cleaner today and experience the difference!
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