Grades K–2 · Arts & Music
How does a paintbrush carry paint onto paper?
The end of a paintbrush is a bundle of many fine hairs or other fibers. Paint can cling to their surfaces and sit in the narrow spaces between them.
In the diagramBristles carry paint and bend to spread itpaint between fiberspaint left on paper
When the brush touches paper and moves, some paint spreads onto the paper. The fibers bend and separate a little as they follow the movement. Their tips help shape the edges of the mark.
A wide brush can cover a broad area, while a small tip can make a narrow mark. The hand supplies the movement and the brush carries a limited paint supply. It needs more paint when that supply runs low.
About this explanation
Starting knowledge: Recognize liquid paint, paper and a brush with many hairs.
Sources
- Winsor & Newton — What type of brush hair is best for acrylic painting?