It is perfectly normal for natural and synthetic brush hairs to become bent, splayed, or lose their shape over time. This can happen during storage, transport, or regular use.
Regular cleaning and allowing brushes to dry in their natural shape will help them continue to perform well for years to come. If the hairs do become misshapen, the techniques below will usually restore them.
Wet and Reshape
For minor bends or splayed hairs, lightly wet the brush using water, solvent, or the appropriate medium for the type of brush. Gently smooth the hairs back into shape with your fingers, then leave the brush to dry naturally.
This is often all that's needed to restore the brush's original point or edge.
Steam
If the hairs have developed a more stubborn bend or kink, steam can help relax the fibres before reshaping.
Hold only the brush hairs over steam for a few seconds, then gently reshape them with your fingers. Avoid allowing the ferrule or handle to become hot, and never immerse the brush in boiling water or allow the hairs to touch the water itself.
Once reshaped, leave the brush to cool and dry naturally. If you intend to use the brush with oil-based media, ensure it is completely dry before use.
Protective Coating
Some manufacturers apply a light coating of gum arabic or a similar protective coating to help preserve the brush's shape during storage and transport.
Others do not use any coating at all, so new brushes may feel softer or appear less uniform until they have been wetted and shaped for the first time. This is perfectly normal and does not affect the performance of the brush.
Still Having Problems with a Newly Delivered Brush?
If your brush arrived with hairs that remain bent, splayed, damaged, or detached after trying the techniques above, please contact our Customer Service Team.
We'll be happy to review the issue and, where appropriate, help with the next steps.