The problem of properly cleaning my kolinsky brushes came shortly after they where purchased. Originally I used hand soap and Dawn to clean them and it did an ok job but I figured there had to be a better, and honestly easier method. So onto the trusty Internet to do some research and talk with some friends. What I found kinda shocked me. There was an overwhelming number of people singing the praises of The Masters. This was the product that literally seemed to unite the painting and modeling world. For only $5 to 10 without a coupon, it was a no brainer to try the stuff out so off to the local hobby store I went. It seems to be readily available in stores like Hobby Lobby and Michaels as well as fine art stores.
Must have!
Smartah
The Masters Brush Cleaner & Preserver 2.5 0z.
The Masters Brush Cleaner & Preserver 1 Oz.
Related Article: The Kolinsky Brush Embargo
The Masters Brush Cleaner and Preserver is for cleaning and preserving paint brushes as the product name implies. To use you simply wet the brush and swirl around on the soap disk until you have a nice lather. Rinse and repeat until brush is clean. The first time I used Masters is was amazing how much paint came out of the brush, a brush that I had cleaned after every session. After the brush is clean simply leave some of the lather on the brush. This helps condition the brush and also helps keep the shape too. This can be used to restore brushes that have old dried paint on it back to its original shape.
Most amazing thing ever, you never know how much paint there was actually in an old paintbrush till you use it. Keeps your brushes good for a loooooong time.
Yeji of Snickernacks
Rarely will I say there is a product that has no downsides, but this is one of those times. It’s easy to use, inexpensive, work really well, one tub lasts a long time, cleans and conditions brush, usable on natural and synthetic.
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The Masters Brush Cleaner & Preserver 2.5 0z.
The Masters Brush Cleaner & Preserver 1 Oz.
Related Article: Winsor and Newton Series 7 Review
My final thoughts is this stuff will make your brushes last longer and it quick and easy to use. It comes in multiple sizes and even the smallest will last for quite a while with everyday use. This is something that should be absolutely required if you’re using fine art brushes.
Video of product in action: http://vimeo.com/m/4967134