da Vinci PRETTY MINT watercolour brush series 496, size 2

da Vinci PRETTY MINT EDITION size 2 – medium-length watercolour brush with soft synthetic fibres

The da Vinci PRETTY MINT EDITION series 496 brush in size 2 is a medium-length watercolour brush for soft colour gradients and flowing brushstrokes. The extra-soft, wavy synthetic fibres ("white & wavy fibre") hold plenty of colour and are springy. You can use it for colour washes and gentle transitions. According to the manufacturer, its precise tip also suits fine details and controlled lines.

The round brush is traditionally hand-bound and set in a plastic quill. The handle is short and mint green. According to the manufacturer, the colour was chosen by community vote. The brush is supplied individually packed.

Working with the brush

Dampen the brush with clean water before picking up colour so that the fibres soak up evenly. Test the amount of water on a scrap of watercolour paper before starting on your subject. For gradients, pick up colour, apply it to the paper and let it flow out softly with a little water. The most common mistake is too much water in the brush: the colour then runs uncontrollably. If needed, wipe the brush on a cloth or against the edge of the water pot.

Care

After painting, rinse the brush in clean water and reshape the tip. Leave it to dry lying flat, or hanging with the bristles pointing down. Do not stand it upright with the bristles pointing up, as water would run into the ferrule. Never leave it standing on its bristles in the water jar either.

da Vinci PRETTY MINT EDITION series 496, size 2 product details

• Manufacturer: da Vinci, series 496 PRETTY MINT EDITION
• Size: 2
• Shape: round brush, medium length
• Hair: extra-soft, wavy synthetic fibres ("white & wavy fibre")
• Mount: plastic quill, traditionally hand-bound
• Handle: short, mint green
• Use: watercolour painting, washes
• Supplied: individually packed

You will also need: watercolour paints, watercolour paper and clean water.