HOW TO CLEAN YOUR PAINTBRUSHES

1. Solvents used for thining paint are recommended for cleaning brushes. After brush is soaked in tinner for a few minutes, work bristles against side. Soap and water are used for all water-mixed paints, Neglected burshes full of hardened paint can bem solvents sometime by soaking them in turpantine or brush cleaner for a day or tow.
2. Repeat with fresh solvents unit liquid remains clear. Squeeze bristles with finger to work paint out of heel. Use plenty of tinner at all times.  A putty knife is sometime necessary if bristles are gummed.
3. If the brush is stored longer then overnight, wash it with an alkali-free soap and warm water. Rinse well and shake out excess water in jar by spinning dry between palms. If bristles are synthetic, do not use alcohol for cleaning
4. When you have removed as much of the tinner as you can, comb bristles thoroughly with a metal comb. This straightens interior bristles and is important in preserving the shape of your brush for future jobs.
5. Wrap for storing in oilcloth or heavy paper and be certain that the bristles lie straght. When a brush is to be stored for month, saturate wrapped brush with linseed oil, hang with bristles pointing down.

CHOOSEING A PAINTBRUSH

1. These brushes will cover anything: 4" wall brush, 3" enameling brush, 2" flat sash brush, 2" trim brush for paneling, and 2" "chiseled" varnish brush.
2. Test for "bounce" by brushing bristles against the back of your hand. Bristles should feel springy  and elastic in a good bursh, should not fan out excessively.
3. Separate the bristles at center of brush with pencil or stick and note the "strip" in heel of brush which improves bristle shape, makes brush easier to clean.
4. Note the "flags" (splits at bristle end) which indicate a quality brush. The more "flags"the better, they aid in holding paint and in spreading it smoothly.