How to Choose the Right Brush Size

Artist brushes usually have numbered sizes, although there is no exact standard for their physical dimensions. So brushes from different brands can easily have different dimensions. Let’s clear things up.

Brush Numbering

Brushes are usually numbered. The most common sizes range from 000 to 20. But there are also special larger and smaller sizes. Brushes as fine as 30/0 are made by large companies, but this is not a standard size.

From smallest to largest, the sizes are:

20/0, 12/0, 10/0, 7/0, 6/0, 5/0, 4/0 (also written 0000 ), 000, 00, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25, 26, 28, 30.

However, these numbers may not be entirely reliable. Each brand and brush shape can vary in thickness and width for a given number. Believe it or not, both brushes in the photo are size no. 10. It’s true that the difference in size is not usually this extreme; these two brushes were specifically chosen for illustration.

If you’re buying brushes from a catalog or online and aren’t familiar with the brand, check whether the actual brush width is given in inches or millimeters. Not all brands use only a number to indicate brush size.

Knowing the Width Isn’t Enough

Different art brushes vary not only in size, even when they have the same number, but also in thickness. Here’s an important detail: in addition to the width, you should carefully consider how many bristles the brush has. If you prefer painting with watercolor and fluid paints, a thick brush holds considerably more paint. This lets you paint smoothly for longer without stopping. If, on the other hand, you’re a fan of the dry brush technique, a brush that holds less paint and has fewer bristles may suit you better.

Ultimately, you can’t rely on the numbered size markings completely. Although widths for a given number shouldn’t vary too much, it’s best to check the exact width in millimeters or inches directly with the manufacturer. To give you at least an approximate idea, we’ve put together a table with all the information you need in one place.

We hope these tips help you choose the right brush and enjoy painting.

Best,

your Majka.

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