Top Paint Brush Starter Kits for Every Beginner
The Mont Marte Signature Brush Set is the top pick for most beginners. It offers 24 brushes with varied shapes and sizes. Owners report it covers all basic techniques. Its main advantage is the diverse range at a low cost. The main limitation is that the bristles may shed slightly with heavy use.
Starting with painting requires the right tools. A good brush set can make learning easier. We compared popular starter kits for acrylics, oils, and watercolors.
Each kit includes different brush shapes and sizes. We looked at bristle material, handle feel, and how well they hold paint. Our picks suit various budgets and painting styles.
Our top picks
Mont Marte Signature Brush Set 24 Piece
This 24 piece set includes a wide range of brush shapes and sizes. Synthetic and natural bristles are combined. Owners appreciate the sturdy wooden handles and storage case. It works well for acrylics and oils. Some users note slight shedding after many washes.
Pros
- Great variety of shapes and sizes
- Comfortable wooden handles
- Durable case for storage
Cons
- Slight shedding over time
- Not for heavy professional use
Amazon Basics Paint Brush Set 12 Piece
Amazon Basics offers a 12 piece synthetic brush set at an affordable price. The brushes have black and metallic handles. They are suitable for acrylics and watercolors. Users report they are easy to clean and hold shape well. The set lacks larger brushes for broad strokes.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Easy to clean
- Good for beginners
Cons
- Limited size range
- Handles feel less sturdy
Craft Smith 10 Piece Paint Brush Set
Craft Smith provides a 10 piece set designed for acrylics. The brushes feature anti-slip wood handles and nylon bristles. They are known for holding their shape. The included case is compact and travel friendly. Some users wish for more brush variety.
Pros
- Ideal for acrylics
- Anti-slip handles
- Compact storage case
Cons
- Fewer brush options
- Not ideal for oils
Artify 20 Piece Paint Brush Set
Artify offers a 20 piece set with multiple brush shapes and sizes. It includes round, flat, filbert, and fan brushes. The synthetic bristles are soft and flexible. Users appreciate the sturdy handles and included roll-up case. The brushes are suitable for acrylics, oils, and watercolors.
Pros
- Many brush shapes
- Versatile for multiple media
- Roll-up case is convenient
Cons
- Some brushes may be too small
- Case not as protective
Royal & Langnickel Zen Series Brush Set 10 Piece
This set from Royal & Langnickel features 10 synthetic brushes with short handles. They are designed for watercolor and fine detail. The bristles are soft and hold water well. Users find them precise and comfortable to hold. The set lacks larger wash brushes.
Pros
- Excellent for detail work
- Soft bristles hold water
- Comfortable short handles
Cons
- Not for broad washes
- No case included
US Art Supply 18 Piece Paint Brush Set
US Art Supply bundles 18 brushes with a carrying case and a palette. It includes various shapes and sizes for multiple techniques. The brushes have black wood handles and nylon bristles. Users appreciate the extra accessories. The set is great for trying different painting styles.
Pros
- Comes with palette
- Good range of brushes
- Sturdy case
Cons
- Brush quality varies
- Palette is small
Nicpro 14 Piece Paint Brush Set
Nicpro offers a 14 piece set with durable synthetic bristles. The brushes have a firm feel, suitable for acrylics and oils. Handles are made of wood and have a comfortable grip. Users report minimal shedding. The set includes a handy roll-up pouch.
Pros
- Firm bristles for control
- Minimal shedding
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Not ideal for watercolor
- Limited brush shapes
Side by side
| # | Model | Includes | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mont Marte Signature Brush Set 24 Piece | 24 brushes | best overall starter kit | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Amazon Basics Paint Brush Set 12 Piece | 12 brushes | budget friendly option | 8.6 | Check price |
| 3 | Craft Smith 10 Piece Paint Brush Set | 10 brushes | acrylic painting beginners | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Artify 20 Piece Paint Brush Set | 20 brushes | variety of shapes and sizes | 9.2 | Check price |
| 5 | Royal & Langnickel Zen Series Brush Set 10 Piece | 10 brushes | watercolor and detail work | 8.8 | Check price |
| 6 | US Art Supply 18 Piece Paint Brush Set | 18 brushes | comprehensive beginner set | 9.1 | Check price |
| 7 | Nicpro 14 Piece Paint Brush Set | 14 brushes | firm bristle control | 8.9 | Check price |
What to look for
Common questions
How many brushes do I need in a starter kit?
A starter kit with 10 to 24 brushes is ideal. It provides enough variety to learn different techniques without being overwhelming. At least 10 brushes cover basic shapes and sizes.
What is the difference between synthetic and natural bristles?
Natural bristles absorb more paint and are stiffer, making them suitable for oil paints. Synthetic bristles are smoother, more durable, and easier to clean, ideal for acrylics and watercolors.
Can I use the same brushes for acrylics and oils?
Yes, you can use synthetic brushes for both, but it is important to clean them thoroughly between uses. Oil paints require solvents, so you may prefer natural bristles for oils.
How do I clean paint brushes?
Rinse brushes in warm soapy water immediately after use. Gently work the paint out of the bristles. Shape the bristles and let them dry flat or hanging. Avoid leaving brushes standing in water.
What are the essential brush shapes for beginners?
Beginners should have a round, flat, filbert, and a small detail brush. These shapes cover most basic painting needs. A fan brush is also useful for texture effects.
Are expensive brushes worth it for beginners?
Not necessarily. Expensive brushes are more durable and precise, but beginners may not notice the difference. A mid-priced starter kit is sufficient to learn the basics.
How long do paint brushes last?
With proper care, synthetic brushes can last for years. Natural bristles may wear out faster. Regular cleaning and proper storage extend the life of your brushes.
What should I look for in a brush handle?
The handle should feel comfortable and balanced. Wood handles are common and sturdy. Some have rubber grips for comfort. Consider the length based on your painting style.
Can I use these brush sets for oil painting?
Most synthetic brush sets are not recommended for oils because they may be too soft. However, some sets are marketed as suitable for oils. Check the product description for compatibility.
Do starter kits come with a case?
Many do. Cases can be a roll-up pouch, a zip-up bag, or a hard case. A case helps protect brushes and keep them organized. It is a convenient feature to have.
Final word
For most beginners, the Mont Marte Signature Brush Set is the best buy. It offers a wide range of brushes at a reasonable price. If you need a budget option, the Amazon Basics set works well. For acrylics specifically, the Craft Smith set is a solid choice. Choose Mont Marte for the best overall experience.
