If you are new to painting, watercolors are an inexpensive and easy-to-use option. A high-quality paintbrush set will help you to get the most out of them. Watercolor paintbrushes should come to a point and stay small and sharp while you use them so they release the right amount of color to provide the most control.

You also will want a variety of brushes so you can pick the one that is the right size for the job. The ZenART Smart 6-Piece Watercolor Brush Set is one high-quality option that comes with a variety of brushes.

Watercolor artists use large brushes for washes and bold strokes and small brushes for detail work. Mid-sized brushes fill in the gaps between broad strokes and detail, so they are the most versatile. Brushes come in sizes 0000 to 50. Look for a watercolor paint brush set that has small, medium and large brushes.

Watercolor artists choose differently-shaped brushes so they can use different painting techniques and achieve different effects.

Natural bristles are made with animal hair, and there are many types to choose from.

Synthetic bristles are made of nylon, polyester or a combination of the two. They are less expensive than most bristles made of animal hair. Generally speaking, synthetic bristles don't hold as much paint and water as brushes made with natural hairs.

If you’re a beginner, a set with one or two small, medium and large brushes is all you need to learn the basic techniques. If you are a more advanced watercolor artist, you will want a larger set with many different shapes and sizes.

Most watercolor paint brush sets come with smooth wooden handles. Look for handles that are comfortable to hold and feel nicely balanced so you have greater control over the brush. Unless you are buying a watercolor paintbrush set for a child, avoid cheaper, less durable plastic handles.

Most watercolor paint brushes attach the bristles firmly to the handle by pinching a soft metal tube around the wooden or plastic handle. This metal tube is called a ferrule, and it helps to strengthen the handle and prevent it from splitting. Look for ferrules that are double- and triple-crimped to keep the bristles secure during washing, when they get the most stress.

Sets with five or six brushes with synthetic bristles cost less than $15. For $15-$30, you will find sets with five or six brushes with natural hair bristles or as many as a dozen synthetics. If you want more brushes or better quality brushes, a set will cost $30-$50.

A. The best way is to first rinse the brush by holding it under a stream of warm water and gently massaging the brush against the palm of your cupped hand until the water runs clear. Follow this by gently working the suds from a gentle hand soap into the bristles and then rinsing them the same way you did at the beginning.

A. Contrary to popular opinion, your brushes should not be stored in a jar with their points up. Your brushes will last longer if you store them horizontally in a case.

A. A lot depends on how much you use your brushes and how well you take care of them. Natural hair watercolor brushes will usually hold their shape and texture for two or more years while brushes with synthetic bristle will only do so for about six months.

ZenART Smart 6-Piece Watercolor Brush Set: Available at Amazon

Our take: This set stands out among the rest for the unique design and top quality of its brushes.

What we like: The brush tips of this set do a good job of holding water and paint while retaining their points and shapes. The larger than usual handles are nicely balanced and comfortable while painting. A carrying case is included.

What we dislike: More experienced watercolorists may find the bristles to be a bit firm.

BOSOBO 20-Piece Paint Brush Set: Available at Amazon

Our take: This nylon watercolor paint brush set has lots of brushes and is ideal for beginners.

What we like: This set includes two each of 10 different sizes. The weight is heavier toward the end for greater control. All brushes have durable synthetic nylon bristles and sturdy wooden handles with rust-proof, double-crimped nickel ferrules.

What we dislike: The paint sometimes peels off the handle.

Artecho 15-Piece Paint Nylon Brush Set: Available at Amazon

Our take: This watercolor brush set comes in a portable zippered canvas case that is perfect for carrying outside.

What we like: This set holds paint and water well without leaving streaks. The construction is sturdy and the variety of brushes is great, including round, flat, angled and fan brushes. This set includes a palette knife and sponge, too.

What we dislike: Some issues with quality consistency have been reported.

David Van Allan is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.

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