travel rigger brush

What is a Rigger Brush (& How to Use One)?

I have just got my hands on a rigger brush… finally.  It’s something I’ve been meaning to try for so long.  I would think about getting one and then the thought goes totally out of my head.  I would go to art shops now and again for something particular, then think what else do I need while I’m here…I’m sure there was something… I’d look around for a while and then leave. A few days later I’d remember about the rigger brush.  Maybe this just says a lot about my memory capacity, I’m not sure.

After an embarrassing number of years, I finally remembered to buy one while I was at the art store a few days ago.  I bought an inexpensive one, I think it was about 2 or 3 US dollars.  This wasn’t a conscious decision, it was the only available brand of rigger brush there in the shop.

After doing a bit of research for myself on what rigger brushes are for and how to use one, I thought it was the worthy subject of a blog post.  Scroll to the end of this post for my personal learning points since working with a rigger brush, there’s a small learning curve but after a few small paintings, I think I’ve got the hang of it.  And now I’m wondering what I did before I had one!

What is a Rigger Brush?

A rigger brush is made from long slender sable hairs (cheaper brushes will use synthetic hairs – my new brush is certainly synthetic) and is intended to make long straight lines.  My understanding is that historically the brushes were used to paint rigging on ships, hence the name “rigger”.

A rigger brush can hold a lot of paint.  When using this brush make sure you load it with paint from the tip of the brush hairs right to the other end of the hair connected to the handle.  This is to ensure the maximum effect of creating a long smooth line. I find with my cheap synthetic brush I do have to “reload” it with paint fairly frequently. Natural hair brushes are able to carry more paint so you would not need to do this so often.

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I will show you my  exact sketching process in ink and watercolour . I have travelled around the world in the last 3 years and this is my go-to system of creating beautiful yet quirky illustrations to capture the magic of my discoveries.

We will work through  3 projects, step by step (pictured below), all of which are real-life examples of things I have sketched along my travels. I provide the photo references you can work from. We will start by choosing a composition, laying in the initial pencil sketch, adding ink lines, layering watercolour and adding the final touches. This and much more are included in my course, Sketch Your Adventures , click the button under the image to find out more!

Which Rigger Brush?

The rigger brush I bought is a number 1 Dalon D99 Daler Rowney brush.  I did not choose it based on anything other just looking at it and thinking, “yep, that’s probably about the right size”.  I just really wanted to try it out to see if it does what I thought it might, or if I could use it effectively. It’s a synthetic brush, so the hair is man-made to imitate natural sable hair. 

The pros of a synthetic brush are that they are more resilient than natural hairs, the bristles are more like to keep their shape. Synthetic hair brushes are becoming more and more successful at imitating natural hair, they are more affordable and more ethical (no animals are harmed in the making of brushes with synthetic hair – well, that I know of).

The best advice is to use a rigger brush with mixed hair: some natural, some synthetic. This means the brush will retain more paint than a 100% synthetic brush but will keep its shape and wear a little slower than a brush made from 100% natural hair.

If you think a rigger brush looks a bit unwieldy with those long bristles, you can get “half-rigger” brush which is the same concept but the brush hairs are about half the length of a standard rigger and therefore easier to control.

There are a number of rigger brushes available on Amazon , however, I do love an in-person perusal of art supplies at a physical art supply store. I know this is not always an option, especially for those of us in more rural areas. You can check out the range of rigger brushes on Jacksons Art , they are based in the UK but have very reasonable international shipping rates.

Check out my ebooks with hundreds of ink & watercolour travel sketches from all over the world. Get some inspiration for your next trip…

How to Use a Rigger Brush

Rigger brushes are excellent for painting long fine lines such as the rigging of a ship, but also tree branches, flower stamens, building railings, intricate patterns, grass or any other fine details. There is definitely a knack to using a rigger brush though.  Read the tips below and with a little bit of practice and it will become second nature.

Most recently I have found my rigger brush super useful in the 30×30 direct watercolor challenge Marc Taro Holmes hosts each year during June. The idea is to do a daily painting directly in watercolor, no pencil sketch or pen lines to follow.  The rigger brush has proved so useful to paint in fine dark lines to add defined edges to shapes where needed. I have also used it to paint textures on rocks, wooden huts, foliage and water ripples.  

Below are some of the sketches done directly in watercolour and indications of where I used the rigger.  These are small (A6 size) paintings too so all the more need for a fine brush like the rigger.  

In the painting above, I used the rigger for the shadows underneath the roof, to create the lines on the house indicating the cladding, and for the grass in the foreground.

In the painting above of Yosemite Valley, I used the rigger brush to create the trees, some of the finer lines in the water and for the grass in the foreground.

I have found I am most successful when my watercolour paint is at a quite opaque consistency, i.e. not much water has been added to the paint.  This means my line is strong and defined which is great if you need to create a dark line under a roof for example as a shadow.  

In order to load the brush with paint effectively, you need to lie the brush in the paint so that the whole length of the hair is submerged and has the opportunity to soak the paint up.

Another thing I realised is that in order to use the rigger brush effectively, how you hold or grip the brush really affects the line quality.  I was gripping the brush so tight right at the ferrule (metal bit) just like a pencil and was not getting the fine flowing line I needed.  I was so tightly wound about controlling the long brush hairs and getting them to behave how I wanted! I somehow became conscious of what I was doing, loosened my grip and held the brush slightly further down the handle, just slightly further back from where the ferrule meets the brush handle. By loosening up I allowed the brush to do its work and create a nice flowing line.

Some of my favourite online classes

• Expressive Architectural Sketching with Colored Markers – Albert Kiefer
• Gouache Painting of Urban Landscapes – Tommy Kim
• Acrylic Painting Step by Step: Create Incredible Landscapes – Maru Godas
• Illustrating Nature: A Creative Exploration – Laura McKendry

Just as with any brush, the amount of pressure you use affects the quality of your line.  This is even more so with a rigger brush. Using light pressure with just the very tip of the brush can produce delicate lines, however, if you apply more pressure and more of the length of the brush you will produce broader lines.

Don’t drag the brush over the paper too much otherwise, you will break up the hair and ruin the brush.

My final tip, make sure you wash your brush thoroughly before letting it dry.  Pigment can lurk easily within those long hairs and damage your brush over time.

I hope this article helped you learn more about rigger brushes and how to use them. They can be relatively inexpensive but are a lot of fun to use in your paintings so, if you can, I’d recommend getting one and start experimenting! If you do get one and use it in your painting, tag me on Instagram ( @urbansketchingworld ) so I can see!

Keep in touch!

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The Best Travel Watercolor Brushes for 2023

Written by Robert S. Brown  / Fact checked by Helen B. Harris

When you take delight in the breathtaking sceneries of the countryside or the hustle and bustle of the city, wouldn’t it be nice to capture every sight and paint them on the spot? In case you’re a watercolor artist who moves places and loves outdoor painting, you’re probably always on the hunt for the best travel watercolor brushes.

Then, how should you choose the right travel paint brush? The key is to determine your preferences, techniques, and painting styles. And since you’ll need something quite handy and reliable wherever you go, you need to consider the size, shape, type, and brush bristles or hairs. Luckily, this article unravels reviews and guidelines that will help you find the perfect brush!

Escoda 1548-4

Golden Maple Travel Watercolor Brushes

 Ohuhu Water Coloring Brush

Table of Contents

1. Escoda 1548-4 Versatil Travel Brushes

2. golden maple travel watercolor brushes, 3. ohuhu water coloring brush pens set, 4. myartscape travel paint brush set, 5. silver brush limited velvet travel brush, 6. golden maple artist travel paint brush, 7. meeden portable artist paint brushes, 8. myartscape pocket paint brush set, 9. fuumuui kolinsky travel watercolor brushes, 10. eval travel artist painting brushes, what to look for when buying travel watercolor brushes, best travel watercolor brush reviews.

Given its popularity and expertise in artisanal brush making, this brand has been a treasure trove of wonderful Escoda travel watercolor brushes. This Versatile 1548 series does live up to its name, showcasing impeccable versatility that delivers exceptional snap, absorption, and fluid retention.

This product is labeled as #4 with a silver handle. It is a portable brush with a detachable 15mm handle that also functions as a cap. Thanks to this feature, the lid closes perfectly, thereby securing and sealing the brush while maintaining its original form. When you’re all done, you can simply remove the handle and cover your brush for messy-free storage. With its very compact size, you can easily slip it in your bag or even in your pocket and you’re all good to go.

Aside from its portability, this short handle travel brush takes its quality up a notch with a unique blend of synthetic bristles. Impressively, it mimics the feel and performance of a kolinsky sable brush.

This 2.82mm diameter brush lends a great spring that holds enough paint without losing its shape or edge. It is easy to control and the sleek and pointed shape allows you to create fine lines and delicate embellishments.

Although it is a synthetic brush, it renders a consistent flow and neat application whenever it hits the surface. Plus, it works excellently with watercolor.

Aside from that, it has a patented triple crimp ferrule that ensures durability, making it for many years to come.

• Designed with a detachable cap for hassle-free transport
• High-quality synthetic bristles for excellent versatility
• Great alternative for kolinsky sable brushes
• Superb absorption and fluid retention
• Ideal for fine details
• Portable and compact size

It is important to keep your watercolor travel brushes in secure and neat storage to maintain their shape and prevent damage.

With that in mind, these Golden Maple synthetic brushes come with a portable case that will keep your brushes handy no matter where you go. It can either be a sturdy bamboo brush roll or a faux leather case.

Whichever you receive, both types provide a convenient holder for your watercolor brushes , keeping them tidy and accessible at all times. I think this is quite useful, especially when you like to travel and paint outdoors.

While that seems to be a sweet treat for artists, the synthetic brushes are what makes this set worth buying. It includes 3 different sizes of professional quality brushes (4, 8, and 12) that you can use for varying line widths.

Each brush has pointed bristles that exhibit excellent spring and snap. With such features, the brushes can preserve their original shapes to render soft and controlled applications. In addition to that, these brushes stand out with their high-quality fibers that imitate the properties of sable brushes. Impressively, the hairs don’t splay but rather provide optimum liquid absorption and consistent flow rate.

• Set of 3 sizes brushes for various purposes
• Comes with a portable case for easy travel
• Synthetic brushes with high-quality bristles that won’t fray quickly
• Has stainless steel removable handles
• Lightweight and compact
• Excellent absorption and smooth flow
• Some caps feel a little loose sometimes

If you’re in search of a portable watercolor brush set that you can use for colorful washes, you’ll have all the essential brushes with this Ohuhu 6-piece brush pen set.

Contrary to the traditional painting brushes, these watercolor brushes highlight their nylon bristles that do not easily deform or fray despite frequent use. They’re sturdy yet versatile, allowing you to blend colors or create artistic embellishments without smears and messy paint overflowing.

Another advantage of nylon brush tips is their ability to hold paint well and release it nicely as soon as it touches the surface. Moreover, if you prefer synthetic alternatives over natural bristles that contain animal products, this material can be your ideal option.

Since the brushes vary from broad, flat, and pointed tips, you can have all the sizes you need for specific coloring or detailing tasks. You can choose which brush you need, whether you have to cover large areas or create delicate lines and details.

Aside from that, the innovative barrel design is one of its fascinating features that makes it an ideal travel brush. You can fill it with water and simply squeeze it to gently dampen the brush tip.

Then, you can dip it in your watercolor palette to produce solid hues or vibrant washes. You can also use this with water-soluble art media to achieve watercolor effects.

When it comes to cleaning, there’s no hassle doing it. You can just tidy them up with water and you’re all good. Plus, each of the brush pens comes with a cap that fits snugly for secure and neat storage while traveling.

• Various tip sizes and brush types for versatile applications
• Made of nylon brush tips for superb absorption
• Innovative barrel design that holds and dispenses water
• Able to create colorful washes and different detailing styles
• Blends color seamlessly without smears
• Comes with caps for secure storage
• May leak if pressed firmly

For a variety of brushes that can showcase your watercolor painting skills wherever you go, this MyArtscape travel brush set must be the one you’re looking for.

It consists of 7 different professional quality brushes that you can use to produce varied line widths and execute different painting techniques. The brushes range from flat, angle, rake, round, and liner types.

I find the variety of sizes a promising deal since you’ll have a particular type of brush for every painting job. In detail, each of them exhibits respective features that can add intricate details, render longer strokes, cover large areas, or accentuate artwork’s elements.

You’ll also find specialty brush designs such as Rake and Liner brushes are suitable for refining those delicate details like animal hair or grass. Other than that, the tapered brush tips deliver exceptional precision and sharpness. As a result, you can define without any smears or awful paint marks.

In terms of design, these synthetic brushes are beautifully crafted with Korean toklan hair. It effectively holds more paint for consistent flow rate and continuous applications.

In this way, you’ll have more time painting and rendering longer strokes than constantly dipping into your paint. This brush material is also anti-shedding, perfect for smooth and hassle-free painting.

What also makes these brushes travel-friendly are their compact handles. Although they are short, the brushes are comfortable enough to hold.

Aside from that, it comes with a portable carry case that you can easily slip in your bag or take anywhere, especially when you fancy plein air painting.

• Made of Korean toklan hair for versatile and efficient applications
• Anti-shedding brush material
• Tapered brush tips for precise detailing
• Comes with a portable carry case
• Compact handles to deliver comfortable grip
• Some have wobbly ferrules

If you need a watercolor brush to flourish your work with precision and produce colorful washes, you’re in for a treat with this Silver Brush Limited black velvet travel paint brush.

It highlights its sleek round brush tip that is soft enough to render smooth and accurate colors. This allows you to freely showcase your painting styles and achieve your preferred color palette and vivid washes.

If you also release the paint for consistent strokes, the brush performs efficiently because of its excellent spring. Although it is soft, it maintains its shape and is firm enough to lift color without leaving any messy smears.

Additionally, this size 8 watercolor brush boasts its elegant blend of squirrel hair and black synthetic bristles. It has a unique design that ensures durability and proper color retention. Apart from that, these sturdy fibers play a significant role in keeping the brush tip to a fine point.

It features an ergonomic shape and length that lends a comfortable grip, leaving a snug fit in your hand as you hold it.

Other than that, it boasts its black lacquer handle that adds a sophisticated touch to the brush. Since it is short, you can also keep it in your brush case or travel bag without any hassle.

• Can deliver small and solid details and colors
• Produces vivid washes and consistent strokes
• Designed with synthetic bristles and natural squirrel hairs
• Compact shape and size
• Elegant design
• Some hairs are sticking out

This Golden Maple brush set highlights its portable and versatile design that ramps up the comfort of traveling and outdoor painting. You’ll have three different sizes for various applications – sizes 4, 8, and 12.

I’ve come across several compact brushes but a detachable handle saves space and promotes secure storage. Therefore, the unique design of these portable brushes makes them a worthwhile purchase.

All you need is to twist the handle to extend the length of the brush, giving you an ergonomic grip and balance in your hand.

When you’re done using it, you can simply remove the handle and cover the brush, leaving you with a portable and compact size that you can toss in your brush case or bag.

Besides the convenient design, these brushes display versatility with their premium nylon bristles that resemble sable hairs. Each of them lends a springy feel that delivers watercolor smoothly.

It’s nice that they aren’t overly soft but rather firm enough to create beautiful washes and gouache evenly. There aren’t any loose hairs, and each exhibits a pointed tip, perfect for rendering fine details and coloring narrow spaces.

Another great addition is the leatherette pouch where you can store your brushes for hassle-free transport. I like how you can keep the brushes tidy and secure in this case and carry it no matter where you go.

• Made with premium quality nylon bristles for a smooth application
• Designed with detachable nickel-plated copper handles
• Comes with a handy leatherette case for tidy storage
• Creates gouache and colorful washes evenly
• Compact and portable sizes
• They don’t hold water well

One of the top options I’ve found for a collapsible watercolor brush set is this one from MEEDEN. Similar to Golden Maple artist brushes, these portable paint brushes feature innovative removable handles that can alter the brush length for a compact and convenient size.

On the other hand, this set includes five round watercolor paint brushes of sizes 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6. With the diverse sizes, you’ll have an array of beautiful brushes for building and blending colors as well as producing glazing vibrant layers.

If you’re not a fan of animal hairs, you might love the delicate synthetic bristles of these brushes. As they are designed with premium quality materials, the bristles can hold color well and release it without any smears.

Amazingly, each brush can maintain its spring and snap. Thus, the brushes retain their shape for seamless and precise applications as well as optimum water retention.

Furthermore, since they have pointed tips, you can render delicate strokes and lines without disrupting previous colors.

It’s also impressive that synthetic hairs don’t wear out easily despite frequent use. Aside from that, they have sturdy handles and anti-rust nickel ferrules that ensure long-lasting quality.

Besides the fantastic craftsmanship and wonderful performance, these brushes are ideal sizes for travel and outdoor painting. They are compact, sleek, and lightweight. Plus, they come with a mini leather case for trouble-free transport!

• Synthetic anti-shedding brushes that can hold color well
• Delivers consistent flow and accurate applications
• Able to maintain its spring and snap
• Mini leather case included
• Compact and lightweight
• The caps are prone to rust

Whether you’re a hobbyist or an experienced artist who loves plein air watercolor painting, you’ll enjoy this 7-piece brush set from MyArtscape.

The brush shapes and sizes vary from round, flat, rake, and liner types, which I find beneficial for achieving a vast array of colors. The assortment of brushes can also create varied consistencies whether you’re rendering fine strokes or producing thick and solid color washes.

If you look closely at the brush tips, they are all beautifully and neatly tapered for excellent precision. Furthermore, the bristles do not shed, allowing you to accentuate even the finest details on your work without a hitch.

I also want to highlight the quality of these brushes, especially their ability to maintain their shapes. They don’t quickly deform or fray even when used multiple times. Additionally, this lends an advantage to its performance as it holds colors and water efficiently.

When it comes to its flow rate, it picks up colors with excellent control and releases them steadily to the surface. The bristles don’t splay but rather keep their edges sharp and firm.

One more thing I love about this set is the portable brush carry case that has snug holders for the brushes. Apart from that, it converts into a brush stand for easy access. Since the fabric is made from an easy-wipe material, it can ward off stains and messy paint marks.

Aesthetically, these lightweight and compact pens look elegant with their gold ferrules and black handles.

• Assorted sizes and shapes for diverse applications
• Tapered bristles and pointed tips for enhanced precision
• Releases paint steadily
• Lightweight and compact brushes
• Portable carry case included
• The case has an unpleasant smell

If you want to experience the remarkable snap and elasticity of natural kolinsky sable hair, you might find yourself an exquisite treat from these Fuumuui pocket watercolor brushes. It includes three different brush sizes – 4, 8, and 12.

Each brush boasts its natural kolinsky sable bristles that have an enormous capacity to hold color. This means that you’ll have more time painting and less time constantly dipping into water and color.

Aside from that, these natural hairs feature a springy structure and excellent shape retention that prevents the brush tips from deformation and fraying. The natural bristles also have a significant effect on its superb performance, allowing you to revel in effortless applications and a steady flow rate.

Like the Raphael watercolor brushes review I’ve read, these travel brushes have a similar feel and capacity of absorbing color to the aforementioned brand. They flaunt their sophisticated pointed tips that carry out precise coloring and detailing.

In terms of portability, these brushes take it up a notch with their detachable metal handles. They also serve as caps to keep the brushes compact as well as to secure them while you’re traveling.

The mini leather pouch is also a great bonus for hassle-free storage and keeping your brushes together at all times. With their portable sizes, you can easily slip them into your pocket or backpack and you’re all set for your next spot for outdoor painting!

• Made of natural kolinsky sable hair
• Removable handles for easy transport
• Excellent spring and shape retention
• Lends smooth flow for various applications
• Includes a mini leather case for secure storage
• Some caps don’t fit snugly

You’re working painstakingly on your watercolor art pieces that exhibit delicate details, and I think you might need this 7-piece Eval travel brush set. It consists of high-quality compact artist brushes with sizes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7.

Since the round brushes range from small to large, you can paint your favorite landscapes or stunning sights with various detailing styles. You can use the broad tips to paint solid colors and the narrow tips to apply intricate strokes and even the littlest details with awesome precision.

Aside from its amazing assortment, each brush boasts its flexible and durable synthetic bristles. Derived from high-quality and anti-shedding nylon wool, these brushes ensure smooth painting and steady color flow.

Thanks to their thin and conical-shaped hairs along with their thick bellies, each brush offers an optimum capacity that can hold water as well as provide consistent water flow.

To spruce up the portability when you move places, these brushes feature detachable nickel-plated copper handles that convert the brushes to compact sizes.

When you’re ready to paint, you can attach these handles to their ferrules and extend the brushes to convenient lengths. In this way, you can start immediately and paint flawlessly and comfortably.

Furthermore, you can use the removable handles as caps to cover the brushes and protect them from further damages as well as to provide neat storage. One more thing, the caps have small vents at the bottom to deter mold growth and moisture buildup due to wet bristles.

On the other hand, you won’t have to worry about storing your brushes since this set includes a small black leather case with a velcro closure.

Thanks to its design, this carry case secures the brushes whether you slip them in your bag or pocket. Therefore, you can always keep your brushes together and prevent them from falling wherever you go.

• Features synthetic bristles designed with anti-shedding nylon wool
• Offers superb color retention and consistent flow rate
• Great for painting intricate details and precise applications
• Has detachable handles for enhanced portability
• Includes a black leather carry case
• Feels wobbly sometimes

Brush Shapes

Watercolor brushes vary in shapes: round, flat, bright, angled, script, filbert, fan, and mop. Each of these shapes renders specific strokes, consistencies, and detailing styles that will complement your painting methods and artistic watercolor techniques. Therefore, determining the brush shape will help you choose the type of brush you’re looking for.

To help you understand the characteristics of each brush shape and its primary uses, consider the following comparison:

• Round: The most versatile shape that can produce various consistencies, intricate details as well as solid lines and colors.
• Flat: A flat brush has long and flat bristles that form a rectangular shape; it can create controlled strokes and define sharp edges.
• Bright: It resembles a flat brush but with shorter bristles and forms a square shape instead of a rectangular. It is ideal for washes, controlled strokes, and linear designs.
• Angled: It can produce flat strokes and varying line widths.
• Filbert: You can consider this shape for remarkable absorption and fluid retention.
• Mop or Oval: It is ideal for covering large areas and creating colorful washes.
• Rigger or Script: It has a long, narrow, pointed tip that renders remarkable precision that is useful when making controlled lines, very fine details, and exhaustive detail work.
• Fan: This shape is great to use for producing artistic effects, varying textures, and adding decorative details.

Synthetic vs Natural Bristles

The type of bristle or hair can make or break your brush. Whether you choose synthetic or natural bristles, both types offer remarkable merits in terms of fluid retention, absorption, and flow rate.

Natural bristles or animal hairs are typically obtained from sable, hog, squirrel, ox, pony, and goat. They all share pitfalls and advantages although sable is the most popular option among the others.

It is best known for its soft bristles and excellent spring and snap. Some of its examples are the Da Vinci travel watercolor brushes and Isabey travel brush, which are derived from pure red sable hair. However, natural hairs are usually more expensive than synthetic ones.

If you’re not a fan of animal hairs, synthetic bristles must be your best pick. Aside from their more affordable pricing, many premium quality synthetic bristles can mimic the properties and performance of natural bristles. This bristle type is usually made from nylon and polyester fibers that can provide full snap and spring as well as preserve their shapes.

The downside with synthetics is their longevity and durability. Contrary to natural hairs that can last a lifetime, synthetic bristles tend to wear out more quickly.

Size and Portability

Since you’ll be traveling most of the time to paint outdoors or someplace else, you should invest in a compact and lightweight watercolor brushes set. Fortunately, many brands offer an extensive lineup of portable brush sets that can fit even in your pocket. You may also consider those brushes with retractable or detachable handles and short handles for easy transport.

When looking for the best travel watercolor brushes , consider long-term use. Take note of the materials used, bristles, ferrules, and handles. You may also look for reputable and popular brands that are pioneers in manufacturing high-quality artist brushes. Some brands like Escoda watercolor brushes, Raphael, Isabey, and Da Vinci are known for their impeccable durability and performance.

However, this doesn’t mean that you should shy away from other brands. Many watercolor artist brush brands can provide superior performance like the ones mentioned in this guideline. In addition to that, customer reviews can help you compare the features and overall durability of the brushes.

Personal Preferences and Needs

The factors and guidelines will help narrow down your options, but the significant basis of your choices relies on your preferences and painting demands. Therefore, it is a prerequisite to determine your techniques, preferred medium, textures, and artistic effects you want to achieve.

With the plethora of choices out there, finding the best travel watercolor brushes can be crucial. If you often travel or go outdoors for plein air painting, you should go for a lightweight and compact brush.

Ultimately, the right brush depends greatly on your brushwork, preferences, and needs. That’s why you should look for the one that complements your painting styles, techniques, and preferred medium. But no matter what brand, shape, or size you choose, it all comes down to what you’re most comfortable with.

I am a former art teacher, so it is evident to me the importance of art in educating the new generation. We also want to help parents who plan to teach their children and desire the best tools and tips for them.

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The Best Travel Paintbrushes for Watercolor and Gouache

By The ARTnews Recommends Editors

The ARTnews Recommends Editors

If you use watercolor or gouache and sometimes paint outside your studio (be it en plein air or simply in another indoor location), travel paintbrushes are a great addition to your toolkit. Designed for safe carrying, they’re equipped with detachable handles that double as protective caps. Don’t think you have to sacrifice quality for convenience, however: There are many artist-grade travel paintbrushes that perform just as well as, or even better than, conventional ones. Ahead, find five that we especially like, for an array of budgets and skill levels.

1. da Vinci CosmoTop Spin Travel Watercolor Brush

No animals were harmed in the making of da Vinci ’ s CosmoTop Spin, our very favorite watercolor brush, which is also available as a round travel brush. Neither too stiff nor frustratingly floppy, CosmoTop Spins hold more water than other synthetics and feel almost as good as sable at a fraction of the price. This ingeniously designed portable version, with pieces that screw together for extra security, will fit in all travel watercolor sets.

2. Isabey Siberian Blue Squirrel Quill Mop

Highly capable and smartly designed for portability, this mop is the only brush you need if you’re painting small—which, if you’re traveling, is likely the case. Featuring Siberian blue squirrel hair that is soft and dense, it soaks up a tremendous amount of water so you can produce sweeping watercolor washes. Detailed lines are just as attainable since the hairs come to a precise point that doesn’t split. The cap fits onto the bottom to become a well-balanced, full-length handle, and the gold-tone brass finish makes this brush look extra sophisticated.

3. Raphael Le Voyageur Wallet Set

If you feel you need more than one travel brush, we suggest this set by Raphael. You get three brushes made of synthetic fibers designed to emulate sable: two rounds of different sizes and a larger, pointed quill. This assortment allows you to paint broad strokes with ease as well as lines that require finesse. The brushes show excellent snap, don’t shed, and— like the Isabey mop—come with protective caps that double as handles. The trio also comes in a faux leather wallet-style carrying case—a stylish and convenient way to keep your tools in one place.

4. Princeton Neptune Series Travel Brush Set

Another synthetic line of brushes, the Neptune series is designed to perform like squirrel hair. These brushes are softer than the Raphaels and less expensive for a set of four rounds. While they have less springiness, they carry a heavy load of water, are flexible, and hold their points beautifully. Handles made of wood make these brushes a pleasure to hold and move across the working surface. In short, this is a great high-grade option without the high price. Some, though, may find the bristles too floppy.

5. Da Vinci Travel Series 1503 Brushes

These highly coveted brushes are the very best you can carry with you on the go. They are made with the finest Kolinsky sable—the hair of the tail from winter coats of male critters—resulting in full-bodied brush heads with impeccably sharp points. While pricey, the 1503s are seriously thirsty brushes with highly controlled pigment release, the tightest snap, and solid construction. Like our top pick, they’re smartly designed, featuring a cap that screws on to become a handle. This cap also features a hole for ventilation, so if you’re in a hurry, you can put the brush away without waiting for it to properly dry first.

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Best Travel Watercolour Brush

Travel watercolour brushes are essential for any artist who wants to take their art on the go. Whether you’re travelling to a new destination or just heading out into nature, having a reliable travel brush can make all the difference. A good travel watercolour brush should be lightweight, durable, and have a variety of sizes and shapes to suit your needs.

In this guide, we review 5 travel brushes made for watercolour and gouache painting. So you can find the best travel watercolour brush for your budget and needs.

Disclaimer: Fine Art Tutorials is a reader supported site. When you make purchases through links on this site, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All prices reviewed, are the prices at time of writing.

Da Vinci Casaneo Synthetic Squirrel Watercolor Travel Brushes

The Da Vinci Casaneo Synthetic Squirrel Watercolor Travel Brushes are a great choice for any artist on the go. These brushes feature synthetic Kazan squirrel hair bristles, which offer superior fluid-holding capacity, fine points and spring. Compared to other brushes, these are on the softer side. So if you’re looking for an especially springy brush, Escoda Versatil may be a better option. The absorbency of this brush is unparalleled. For artists that want to create layers of washes, they will help to create a nice even coverage.

The bristles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from quill rounds to square and travel rounds. The round brushes are great for tiny details, while the square brushes are suitable for more painterly watercolour techniques . Compared to other travel watercolour brushes, these offer more shape option.

The quality of these brushes is top notch, with excellent craftsmanship and attention to detail. They are also very portable, making them ideal for plein air painting or other outdoor activities. The handle can be removed to use as a cap, so the bristles can be protected and packed away compactly.

Finally, they are compatible with a wide range of painting mediums such as watercolour , gouache , acrylics and ink. Because the bristles are synthetic you can use them with acrylic, which may be an advantage for those who enjoy using different mediums.

Raphaël Precision Travel Brushes

The Raphaël Precision Travel Brushes feature imitation sable hair, allowing them to hold watercolour, gouache , acrylics, and more. The shorter handles make them ideal for painting on the go.

Raphaël has been producing high-quality art supplies since 1793 in France. They are one of the oldest brush makers in Europe and are known for their commitment to excellence in craftsmanship. Their brushes are made with only the finest materials and have become a favorite among professional artists around the world. Whether you’re an experienced painter or just starting out, Raphaël’s travel brush sets will provide you with everything you need to create beautiful works of art on the go.

Get the Raphaël Le Voyageur Travel Brush Wallet Set which includes a Soft Aqua (size 6) brush, a Soft Aqua Quill (size 3/0) and a Precision Round (size 0). It comes beautifully presented in a travel wallet, so it’s ideal for taking outdoors for plein air watercolour painting . It has all the brush types you would need for creating large washes, tiny details and for using a variety of watercolour techniques.

Princeton Neptune Series 4750 Synthetic Squirrel Travel Brushes

The Princeton Neptune Series 4750 Synthetic Squirrel Travel Brushes are the perfect choice for artists looking for a brush that offers precision and control. The softest synthetic squirrel hair bristles provide superior dexterity and control when painting, allowing for smooth and elastic brush strokes. These brushes come in four sizes (4, 6, 8, 10) and feature a unique quill shape that is both lightweight and portable. The price point of these brushes is also quite reasonable compared to other brands like Da Vinci Casaneo Travel Brushes or Raphael Precision Travel Brushes.

The Princeton Neptune Series 4750 Synthetic Squirrel Travel Brushes offer a great combination of quality and affordability. They are well-crafted with attention to detail, providing an excellent painting experience. The bristles are soft yet durable, making them ideal for watercolour painting as well as other mediums such as acrylics or oils. The lightweight design makes them easy to transport from one location to another without sacrificing any of the quality or performance. All in all, these brushes are an excellent choice for any artist looking for a reliable travel brush set at an affordable price point.

Escoda Versatil Travel Brush

Escoda Versatil Travel Brushes are a great choice for artists who are looking for a quality brush that won’t break the bank. They hold their tapered point well and snap back into place during use. Made from synthetic Kolinsky fibres, these are a great option for those who want a cheaper brush that can also be used with acrylic.

The attractive metal cap can either fit over the tip of the brush to protect the bristles whilst being transported, or it can attach to the end of the handle to make it a normal watercolour brush size.

These brushes are handcrafted with superior materials and offer exceptional snap, superior absorption, and fluid retention. They also feature increased colour retention when compared to other watercolour brushes made from synthetic kolinsky hairs.

One of the advantages of the Escoda Versatil Travel Brushes is their price point. They are more affordable than genuine Kolinsky brushes. Additionally, they come in a variety of sizes ranging from #2 to #12, allowing you to find the perfect size for your needs.

Silver Brush Black Velvet Voyage Travel Brushes

Made with natural squirrel hair, the Silver Brush Black Velvet Voyage Travel Brushes feature a black handle and flexible bristles that provide superior absorbency. Squirrel hair is softer and has less elasticity compared to kolinsky sable or synthetic hairs, however, the black synthetic risslon filaments that the Silver Brush has been made with give the brush a signature ‘snap’. Therefore the bristles hold their point well during use.

Just like the other brushes on the list, the brush handles can be removed and used as caps to protect the bristles in transport.

The brush heads are also resistant to wear and abrasion, allowing them to maintain their shape over time.

The Black Velvet Voyage Travel Brushes from Silver Brush come in four sizes (2, 4, 6, 8). There are fewer sizes available compared to other brands. However they have enough variation to satisfy artists who want to create detail works to medium sized wash techniques. so you can find the perfect brush for all your painting needs. Although there are fewer sizes available, one of the benefits of the Silver Brush travel brushes is that they are cheaper compared to other brands. Their largest size is under $35 (at time of posting), and a set of all four brushes is around $122.

Overall, the Silver Brush Black Velvet Voyage Travel Brush is an excellent choice for artists looking for a reliable set of travel brushes that offer superior performance at an affordable price point.

No matter what type of travel watercolour brush you choose, it’s important to select one that fits your needs and budget. With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect brush for your next adventure!

If you want to learn about other types of watercolour brushes, including sable and other natural hair bristle brushes, read our review of the best watercolour brushes for artists.

Find Your Perfect Brush:

Series 4850

AQUA ELITE™

Aqua Elite is an innovative synthetic-hair paint brush that is indistinguishable from natural Kolinsky, yet significantly more affordable. The performance of this new synthetic hair brush technology makes Princeton Aqua Elite the new standard for discerning watercolor artists.

View Brushes         View Pricing

• Better Than Natural Kolinsky
• Delivers Oceans of Color
• Finest Point and Tapered Edge
• Animal Friendly
• Durable and Affordable

Angle Shader

Millimeters.

Travel Round

Aqua Elite Professional Box Set

Aqua Elite Professional 4-Piece Set

Aqua Elite Travel Brush Set

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How to Use a Rigger Brush Watercolor Painting Lesson

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Disclaimer: Jennifer Branch Gallery is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. I receive a small rebate for your entire order (starting at 4%) if you choose to purchase through Amazon. Most items can be bought multiple places and I highly recommend local art stores if you have one! Any other recommendation links I receive no compensation for. These referrals help me support this website, and I thank you for any purchase you make through them. I will never recommend a product I have not used frequently and believe is the best tool for the purpose!

Painting Natural Objects

Sketch painted almost entirely with a rigger brush on youtube video.

But What If I Want Smooth Strokes?

• Paint several winter trees with a rigger brush.
• Write your name several times with a rigger brush. When your signature looks good, you have great brush control!

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RBTH releases a special brochure – Moscow Traveller

Moscow Traveller

The Russian capital has gone through countless changes since its founding in 1147. Today this bustling city is one of the world's great metropolises — full of exhibitions and performances, new art spaces, modern parks and expanded sports venues. In recent years, Moscow has attracted the best Russian and foreign architects and urban planners, who have made significant changes not only in the city's visible fabric but also in the patterns of urban life.

This largest city in Europe is managing its growth through the expansion of subway lines, launching new forms of public transportation and an expansion of bicycle lanes. New stadiums are being built for large-scale international sporting competitions and former factories are being turned into spaces for creative expression. People of any age and profession can find a way to fit into life here. Young artists can express themselves through street art; ambitious entrepreneurs can find support for social and ecological projects. New green spaces and farmers markets are helping people embrace a healthy lifestyle.

Moscow today is a city in transition, developing a new identity for the 21st century.

RBTH is taking a deep look onto all these angles of new Moscow in our special print edition – Moscow Traveller.

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