Nails
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Technique

What kinds of things should I look for in an acrylic brush?

November 13, 2007

Even though this seems like a straightforward question, there’s no single answer to it. The type of brush that’ll work best for you depends on what you’ll be using it for. For example, if you’ll be doing a lot of nail art, I’d recommend a resilient brush like a Kolinsky sable. It’s best to speak to an honorable manufacturer directly and have them recommend what would fit your specific needs. — Cerry Ettkins is coordinator at Tekabrush.


You should look for a brush that is the proper size — one that’s comfortable for your hand with the proper handle size and length. Next, you should look for a brush with slightly shorter hairs than an art brush, giving the brush more resistance for better application. You should also look for brushes made with seamless ferrules (the metal piece that holds the hair). This allows the brushes to be filled to maximum capacity.

I recommend a brush from a reputable company made with Kolinsky hair from Germany. Germany is celebrated for being the best in the brush-making industry. I also recommend not basing your decision on the initial cost. A high quality brush that costs more will outlast the cheaper ones; you’ll also get better results that will make for happier customers. — Nicole Heinrich is sales manager at European Nail Products LLC.

More FAQ

Why do I get lifting around the cuticle on my acrylics?

I have problems with acrylic lifting. I have very good prep and can find no problems with my application. The only thing I can come up with is maybe I put the apex in the wrong spot. I put my apex in the middle of the nail, not necessarily on the spot on the natural nail where the free edge joins the nail bed. Is this the reason why I get lifting around the cuticle? It seems if I put the apex back further (if the nails are long) then they will look a bit silly.... read more

What is the difference between acrylic brushes and gel brushes?

What is the difference between acrylic brushes and gel brushes?... read more

How do I get a perfect acrylic bead?

How do I get a perfect acrylic bead?... read more

If I’m applying polish over gels, do I need to use clear sealer, then base coat?

If I’m applying polish over gels, do I need to use clear sealer, then base coat?... read more

If I’m applying polish over acrylics, do I need to apply base coat before I put polish on?

If I’m applying polish over acrylics, do I need to apply base coat before I put polish on?... read more

Why do I have air bubbles when I glue on tips?

When I glue on tips there are always air bubbles that show. In addition, it takes forever for the glue to dry. I have seen some people (in the malls) put a dinky dab of glue on and it adheres immediately with no bubbles. I have tried all sorts of glue. What am I missing? Is it the way I’m using it or is it the product?... read more

What’s the best way to clean my acrylic brush?

What’s the best way to clean my acrylic brush?... read more

What are party nails?

What are party nails? I was told they are some kind of a tip that can be worn for a short time. Do you use them with an overlay or just the tip?... read more

How do I safely use a drill with a sanding bit?

I’m thinking about using a drill with a sanding band to prep. How do I use it and avoid damage to the nail plate? I’m concerned about what speed, what grit, and what kind of band, and whether I can use it to remove pterygium.... read more

Why do I keep getting air bubbles in my acrylic?

Why do I keep getting air bubbles in my acrylic?... read more

Is there an easy way to remove a UV gel top coat? Or is there a product for removing this?

Is there an easy way to remove a UV gel top coat? Or is there a product for removing this?... read more

Some of my clients complain that their acrylic lifts too quickly from on top. How can I avoid this?

Some of my clients complain that their acrylic lifts too quickly from on top. How can I avoid this?... read more