Как выбрать кисти для акварели: Виды, характеристики и мой базовый набор для скетчинга

Summary

In this video, artist and sketching instructor Natasha Soboleva shares valuable tips for selecting the right brushes for watercolor and sketching, especially for beginners. She explains the key characteristics of brushes, such as the material of the bristles (synthetic vs. natural), the various shapes and sizes, and the differences in water retention. Natasha also offers practical recommendations for essential brushes, including a versatile round brush and a water reservoir brush for sketching on the go. The video includes suggestions for expanding your brush collection, plus a quick demo on how to use a toothbrush for creating splatter effects. The video is a must-watch for those interested in watercolor sketching.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video is about selecting the right brushes for watercolor and watercolor sketching, especially for beginners.
• 😀 Synthetic brushes are more rigid and absorb less water, while natural brushes (such as squirrel and goat) absorb more water and are better for watercolor techniques.
• 😀 The main difference between synthetic and natural bristles is their water retention capacity, with natural bristles holding and releasing more water.
• 😀 The brush attachment method can affect water absorption, with some brushes being able to hold more water due to their design.
• 😀 The shape of the brush plays a crucial role in the type of strokes it can create. Flat brushes are used for applying paint flat, while round brushes are versatile for both fine lines and broad strokes.
• 😀 Brush size is indicated by a number on the handle. However, the actual size can vary between brands, so checking the physical brush is essential.
• 😀 Natural vs. synthetic bristles: while natural bristles are often preferred for watercolor, high-quality synthetic brushes can mimic natural bristles closely and are more affordable.
• 😀 Brushes with white bristles are usually synthetic, while darker or multi-colored bristles may be synthetic designed to resemble natural hair.
• 😀 Brushes with a water reservoir are perfect for watercolor sketching on the go, as they don't require a separate water container.
• 😀 For beginners, a round medium-sized brush and a water reservoir brush are recommended for both home use and portable sketching.
• 😀 A basic watercolor brush kit includes a versatile medium round brush, a flat brush for washes, and small brushes for fine details. A toothbrush can also be used to create splatters for added texture.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is about selecting the right brushes for watercolor and watercolor sketching, especially for beginners.

Why is it important to choose the right brushes for watercolor sketching?

Choosing the right brushes is crucial because it affects the quality and ease of painting. The right brush ensures that the watercolor behaves as intended, providing better control and more artistic possibilities.

What is the difference between synthetic and natural bristles?

Synthetic bristles are made from plastic fibers and tend to be firmer and less absorbent. Natural bristles, like squirrel or goat hair, are more absorbent and can hold more water, which is ideal for watercolor techniques.

Why is squirrel hair considered ideal for watercolor brushes?

Squirrel hair is preferred for watercolor because it is highly absorbent, allowing it to hold more water and pigment. This makes it ideal for creating smooth washes and working with fluid watercolor techniques.

What are the different types of brush bindings and how do they impact performance?

Brushes can have different types of bindings, such as the regular glue binding, where the bristles are glued inside the ferrule. Brushes with this binding can hold more water because water is absorbed into both the visible bristles and the internal surface.

How does the shape of a brush affect the painting process?

The shape of a brush determines the types of strokes it can make. Flat brushes are ideal for broad washes and sharp edges, while round brushes are better for fine lines and detailed work. Other shapes, like filberts or angled brushes, give unique effects depending on the direction of the bristles.

What is the importance of brush size when choosing a brush for watercolor?

The size of a brush impacts the scale of the work. Smaller brushes (such as size 0 or 2) are used for detail, while larger brushes (such as size 12 or 16) are better for broad strokes and washes. Brush sizes are often marked with numbers, but the actual size may vary across brands.

What should you look for when selecting a synthetic brush?

When selecting a synthetic brush, look for a firm texture that resembles natural hair, especially if you're looking for a high-quality synthetic. A good synthetic brush mimics the properties of natural hair, offering a similar level of control and absorbency.

What is the benefit of a brush with a water reservoir for watercolor sketching?

A brush with a water reservoir allows for on-the-go painting without needing a separate water container. This makes it very convenient for plein air painting or sketching, as the water can be stored directly in the brush, making it easy to add moisture to the paint whenever needed.

How can you distinguish between synthetic and natural bristle brushes based on appearance?

Synthetic brushes often have a white or very light-colored bristle, whereas natural brushes tend to have darker bristles that may appear more translucent or lustrous. Additionally, natural hair may have a slightly more irregular or textured appearance compared to the uniform synthetic bristles.