The Artist’s All-Rounder: How to Use Filbert Brushes for Smooth, Controlled Painting

If you’ve ever found yourself switching between a round brush and a flat one hoping for something that can do a bit of both, the filbert brush might be exactly what you need. With its gently curved tip and broad base this versatile tool makes blending shaping and softening strokes feel effortless whether you’re working in acrylics, oils or even watercolours.

At Discount Art & Craft Warehouse we stock a wide range of artist brushes including filberts so if you're looking to refresh your kit or just want to try something new this guide will help you get the most from one of painting’s most underrated tools.

What Exactly Is a Filbert Brush?

Filbert brushes are instantly recognisable by their flat oval shaped bristles and soft rounded edge. It’s that unique shape that allows you to go from smooth washes to crisp lines without changing brushes; something artists appreciate when they’re in the zone.

These brushes come in a range of sizes and fibre types and they work well across most painting mediums. If you’re looking for a brush that offers flexibility without fuss a filbert is a great place to start.

The Shape That Adapts to You

Part of what makes filberts so handy is their adaptability. Use the broad side for coverage, the tip for fine lines or sweep it in a curve for a petal or leaf shape. It’s easy to learn and even easier to love.

Many artists say it’s the brush they didn’t know they needed until they tried it. Once you get used to the smooth flow and soft edges it’s hard to go back.

Why Filberts Win on Versatility

Filberts strike a nice balance. They can shape like a round spread like a flat and blend like a mop. That kind of multitasking means fewer brush swaps and a more natural flow while you paint. Whether you're working fast or refining details it's a brush that fits right into your rhythm.

Where Filbert Brushes Really Shine

While you can use a filbert for just about anything there are certain techniques where it really stands out. It's particularly good at blending and shaping colour without leaving hard edges or visible strokes.

Blending Like a Pro

The curved tip of a filbert makes it easy to blend one colour into another with minimal effort. It’s especially useful in portraits and skies where you want softness without overworking the paint.

With acrylics you can layer and push pigment into the canvas smoothly. With oils it’s perfect for those subtle shifts in tone that make a painting come alive.

Curves and Details Made Easy

Need to paint a petal shape a leaf or soften a highlight The shape of the filbert lets you do that in a single stroke. You don’t have to fight the brush; just follow the form and let the rounded edge guide the shape.

Even when working small filberts let you blend and define without switching between two or three brushes.

Flat Round or Filbert

If flat brushes are for blocking in and rounds are for detail, filberts are for everything in between. They offer flexibility in strokes and work well whether you’re building layers, shaping forms or just adding that final blend.

They’re a great choice if you want to reduce your toolkit without limiting what you can do.

Choosing and Caring for Your Filbert Brushes

Picking the right brush and keeping it in good shape will help you get better results and make your tools last longer.

Choosing the Right One for Your Medium

Acrylic paint brushes are usually synthetic and easier to clean, while also tending to hold their shape well. Many oil paint brushes have natural fibres, which can help with softer strokes.

At Discount Art & Craft Warehouse we carry a variety of filbert brushes suited to different styles and price points. Whether you're just starting out or want a reliable upgrade you'll find something that suits your painting habits.

A Few Tips for Keeping Them in Good Nick

After each session rinse your brushes thoroughly with water or solvent if you’re using oils, reshape the bristles and store them with the tips up or lying flat.

Avoid letting paint dry near the ferrule as it can damage the shape. With just a bit of care a good filbert can stay in rotation for years.

Discover Filbert Brushes

Ready to try a brush that can handle detail, coverage and blending all in one? Filbert brushes are an easy way to bring flexibility and finesse to your painting. At Discount Art & Craft Warehouse you’ll find a great selection of filberts to suit acrylic oil and mixed media styles.

Explore our range to see how a filbert can fit into your creative workflow. It just might become the brush you reach for every time.