Brushes are an investment. If used and cared for properly, your brush will last a long time and perform better. A few basic suggestions:

* Do not immerse the brush in paint up to the ferrule. Wet paint is hard to remove from this area and, if it dries, even more difficult. * Remove all excess paint with a rag or paper towel. * Never leave a brush soaking in water or mineral spirits for an extended period of time. * Never let your brush rest on its head. There are many accessories available that will suspend your brush. * Watercolor and acrylic paint should be cleaned with mild soap and water. Oil paint should be first cleaned with mineral spirits or turpentine and then with soap and water. * After cleaning, remove excess water, reshape the hairs into place with you fingers, and stand the brush upright on the handle to dry. A little effort will protect your brush and save you money .