Best Brushes for Miniature Painting: Kolinsky vs. Synthetic
So, which brush is better for miniature painting: Kolinsky or synthetic?
The honest answer is that you probably want both. They feel different, perform different jobs, and neither one is meant for everything.
When to Use Kolinsky Brushes
Kolinsky brushes are all about control. They hold more paint than most synthetics, release it smoothly, and can maintain an incredibly fine point.
That makes them ideal for:
- Layering and glazing
- Edge highlights
- Faces, eyes, and small details
- Freehand and finishing work
A good Kolinsky brush does not have to be tiny. A quality size 1 or 2 can hold plenty of paint while still giving you a point fine enough for detailed work.
Because natural hair requires more care, we recommend saving your Kolinsky brushes for the parts of the miniature where precision actually matters.
When to Use Synthetic Brushes
Synthetic brushes generally feel firmer and have a stronger, more immediate snap. They are also more durable, easier to clean, and better suited for everyday abuse.
We prefer synthetics for:
- Basecoating
- Metallic paints
- Oil and enamel washes
- Mixing paint
- Stippling and weathering
- Rough or textured surfaces
Metallics contain reflective particles that can remain inside the brush, while oils and enamels often require more involved cleaning. You can use Kolinsky for these materials, but there is little reason to put extra wear on your best detail brush.
Kolinsky can still work beautifully for precise oil details. For general oil washes and weathering, however, synthetic is usually the more practical option.
Which One Should You Choose?
Our rule is simple:
Use Kolinsky for precision. Use synthetic for everything harder on the brush.
That is why our Eldritch Kolinsky Brushes are made for smooth layering and fine details, while our Ebonflame Synthetic Brushes handle basecoating, metallics, oils, and daily painting.
It is not really Kolinsky versus synthetic. It is about using the right brush for the job.