Best Paint Brushes to
Use with Acrylic Paints

Choosing the right paintbrush can make a world of difference when working with acrylics. Acrylic paint is known for its versatility, quick-drying nature, and vibrant finish, but achieving the best results really depends on the tools you use. That’s why you want brushes that provide quality, control, and a smooth application with acrylics. 

Hero Image

Let’s take a look at things to consider when choosing your brush.


1. Superior Bristle Quality for Smooth Application

When painting with acrylics, you want high-quality bristles for the smoothest results. Zibra paint brushes are crafted with advanced synthetic filaments that are designed to work exceptionally well with acrylic paints. These filaments hold the right amount of paint and release it smoothly onto your canvas, ensuring even coverage without streaks or brush marks.

2. Versatile Shapes for Every Detail

Acrylic painting often requires a variety of brush shapes to achieve different effects. Whether you’re working on broad strokes or intricate details, Zibra’s range of brush shapes has you covered. Here are some Zibra brushes that are perfect for acrylic painting:

  • Zibra Medium Artist Brush Set: Ideal for detailed work, fine lines, and small areas, the Medium Artist Brush Set is perfect for those finishing touches and intricate designs.
  • Zibra Flat Brush: For covering large areas and creating bold, sweeping strokes, the flat brush offers precision and control, making it ideal for backgrounds and layering colors.
  • Zibra Fan Brush: Perfect for blending, adding texture, and creating soft, feathered edges, the fan brush is great for smoothing out paint strokes and achieving subtle effects.

3. Comfortable Handles for Prolonged Painting Sessions

Acrylic projects can be time-consuming, and comfort is key when it comes to long painting sessions. Zibra brushes feature ergonomically designed hourglass-shaped handles that provide a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue and giving you better control over your brushstrokes. Whether you're painting on canvas, walls, or furniture, Zibra handles will make your work feel effortless.

4. Durability That Keeps Up with Acrylics

Acrylic paints can be tough on brushes, especially when you need to clean them frequently. Zibra brushes are built to last, with durable bristles that maintain their shape and integrity even after multiple uses and cleanings. The ferrule, which holds the bristles securely in place, is made of rust-resistant stainless steel, ensuring that your brushes remain in great condition over time.

5. Ideal for All Acrylic Applications

Whether you’re an artist working on canvas, a DIY enthusiast revamping furniture, or a muralist tackling large walls, Zibra brushes are versatile enough to handle any acrylic project. Their superior bristle quality, versatile shapes, and ergonomic handles make them an excellent choice for all types of acrylic painting.

6. Don’t Forget to Clean Your Brushes!

When your project is complete and you’re ready to thoroughly clean your brushes, use soap, water, and the Zibra Paintbrush Cleaning Tool to remove any paint residue. Proper maintenance ensures your brushes remain in top condition for future projects.

And don’t forget to share your projects with us on social media, using @zibrapainting and inspire others on their painting journey! Want more tips and tricks? Sign up for our mailing list. Happy painting!

 

Great for detail work

Fan Paintbrush

$9.90
Perfect for broader strokes

1/4" Artist Brush Set - Medium

$12.95

Related articles

  • Window Painting 101 with Laura Thompson How-to Series
    2 minute read
    Hanalyse Loboda

    Window Painting 101
    with Laura Thompson

    We sat down with muralist and window artist Laura Thompson (@ltmurals) to talk all things window painting, from materials and maintenance to why this medium has become such a powerful (and profitable) part of her creative work.
  • Pro Tips on How to Flip a Piece of Furniture How-to Series
    2 minute read
    Hanalyse Loboda

    Pro Tips on How to Flip a Piece of Furniture

    With Guest Blogger: Jen Talley of Perfectly Imperfect Furniture Refinishing If you’ve never flipped a piece of furniture before, it can seem pretty simple at first: find a piece, paint it, sell it. Easy, right? But anyone who’s done it knows there’s a lot more that goes into creating pieces that actually sell and stand out. We’re sharing expert tips from professional furniture artist Jen Talley, whose work blends timeless design with a “perfectly imperfect” philosophy rooted in intention, simplicity, and quality. (You may also recognize her from her episode on Brush & Banter, “When ‘No’ Becomes the Business Plan,” where she talks about boundaries, burnout, and building a sustainable creative business.) Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your process, these tips will help you flip with more confidence, and better results.
  • Brush + Banter Podcast Ep. 9 with Alli Koch of Alli K Design — Setting Your Prices as an Artist How-to Series
    2 minute read
    Hanalyse Loboda

    Brush + Banter Podcast Ep. 9 with Alli Koch of Alli K Design — Setting Your Prices as an Artist

    What does it actually take to build a mural business that lasts more than a decade, and still feel steady, sustainable, and creatively fulfilling? In the latest episode of Brush & Banter, hosts Brie and Lauren sit down with Texas-based muralist, author, and sculptor Alli Koch to talk about the behind-the-scenes structure that supports her 11-year creative career. From publishing drawing books to installing a 25-foot public sculpture, Alli has built a body of work that spans mediums and industries. But how has she done so much over the course of her incredible career? Turns out that it’s the boundaries and mindset that helped her stay booked (with repeat clients into 2026) while protecting her creativity along the way.