Cleaning oil paint from artists brushes
Paint brushes are the tools the pet portrait artist just cannot do without, their painting style and technique relies on them. Professional artists brushes can cost a great deal to replace, so it’s right to make certain they’re kept in good condition for as long as possible.
Whilst it is essential, cleaning is in itself is detrimental to the brushes so, if an artist has to interrupt the painting process, say an hour or two, it’s better to just load the brush with fresh paint and either wrap it with cling film. But, if you’re going to leave the brush for a few hours or at most overnight, plunge it in a jar of water to omit air. Still, it’s best to make sure the delicate tips don’t press against the sides of the jar as it will change the shape of the hairs. This is achieved by inserting holes in the lid (making them slightly smaller than the widest part of the handle to stop it dropping down), then fill the jar to the top so that it submerses the head when the brushes are in position. There are brushes (like fans) that have a head that’s actually wider than the handle, this makes it tricky to pass through the hole without pushing the bristles out of shape. For brushes like this, use a length of stiff wire (use gardening wire or an wire coat hanger), to bend around the handle, holding the brush firmly and supporting it in the centre from either edge of the lip. It’s important to make sure that the brushes aren’t left in water for too long, as it can cause the ferrules to rust and the bristles to swell.
When the painting is complete, remove excess paint using kitchen paper or newspaper, and soak the brush in general purpose white spirit (don’t bother with artists quality white spirit for this job) or brush cleaner. Once the remaining paint has been dissolved, wash the brush using washing-up liquid and then rinse thoroughly. Re-shape the brush head before allowing it to dry out.
