Should you use calligraphy brushes for watercolor painting?
I bought a set of calligraphy brushes on AliExpress and have been using them for watercolor painting. They have natural bristles in 3 types. They are quite soft and absorb and hold water well. However, they aren't the best option for watercolor. I noticed that they quickly cause pilling on 200 gsm cellulose paper, but they work well on 300 gsm cotton paper.

However, these brushes are very well-suited for painting minimalist landscapes. The shape of the brush allows for both large strokes and tiny lines, adjusting the saturation and width of the stroke, while the fine tip allows for painting the smallest details. In the photo, they are dry and fluffy; when wet, the tip is thin and precise. A downside is that they take a long time to dry. Therefore, it is advisable to store them in a fabric case that absorbs moisture well.

I do not recommend using them as your primary brushes for watercolor painting, but I do suggest buying one or two such brushes as additional tools, preferably in different sizes. They are inexpensive if ordered from China, but you will have to wait for delivery.



