To dry your watercolor brushes correctly, rinse them thoroughly and then dry them tip-down on a slanted surface.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Best Practices for Drying Watercolor Brushes
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Rinse thoroughly: After each painting session, rinse your watercolor brushes thoroughly with clean, cool water. Ensure all traces of paint are removed from the bristles and ferrule (the metal part that connects the bristles to the handle).
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Shape the bristles: Gently reshape the bristles into their original form using your fingers. This helps them maintain their shape as they dry.
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Remove excess water: Gently blot the brush on a clean towel or cloth to remove excess water. Avoid squeezing or pulling on the bristles, as this can damage them.
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Dry on a Slanted Surface: The ideal way to dry watercolor brushes is on a slanted surface, with the brush head pointing downwards. This allows any remaining water to drain away from the ferrule and prevents it from seeping back into the handle, which can loosen the glue and cause the brush to fall apart over time. A towel-covered board works well.
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Alternatively, Dry Horizontally: If you don't have a slanted surface, you can lay your brushes flat on a towel, ensuring the brush head extends slightly over the edge of the surface.
Important Considerations
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Avoid drying brushes upright in a container: Drying brushes upright can cause water to accumulate in the ferrule and handle, leading to damage and shortening the brush's lifespan.
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Don't worry about residual watercolor: It's generally not harmful if a small amount of residual watercolor dries in the brush or ferrule, especially if you've rinsed them well. Regular, thorough cleaning is more important.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your watercolor brushes dry properly and maintain their shape and performance for years to come.
