by Lynette Crawford

Created on: January 30, 2009   Last Updated: November 25, 2010

Let's face it - craft paint brushes are an investment. So, it is important to get them cleaned and stored properly. After all, we want our investment to last a long time and take us through many years of crafting and creativity.

First of all, cleaning your brushes before storage is of the utmost importance in the storage process. Clean your craft brushes as soon as your project is finished. Never allow your paint to dry on your brushes, which will spell the end of the long brush life we are looking for. In addition, you want to keep the wooden handles as dry as possible while working. Brushes need to be cleaned based on the type of brush and the medium that has been used. Generally speaking, oil based paint, stain, varnishes, etc. need to be thoroughly cleaned with paint thinner or mineral spirits, taking care not to bend your bristles. Latex, acrylic, and water based paints should be removed with a gentle soap and warm water, again taking care with the bristles. There are some great cleaners out there if you want to invest in them (i.e. Master's Brush Cleaner and Preserver). These cleaners last a long time and can be worth the small cash outlay involved.

Once your brush is completely clean (up to the metal band), reshape the bristles or hair into the brushes original shape. Now, let your brush dry from top to bottom. You want to dry your brush in an upright position taking care not to bend the bristles. There are some specialty products available to hold your brushes while drying though you can easily dry your brushes in the proper fashion without them.

Once your brushes are clean and completely dry, let's get them stored properly. Again, you can purchase brush tubes to hold each brush individually, or storage containers just for brushes, but some of the best brush storage devices are at the hardware or sporting goods store. A tackle box with adjustable compartment lengths makes a great brush storage container. A tool box also works amazingly well to store those varying sizes of craft brushes. Store the brushes flat in the box, taking care not to bend the bristles or hair of the brushes. Keep in mind that your natural hair craft brushes will need to be conditioned on a regular basis to keep them in top shape.

So back to the beginning, quality craft paint brushes are an investment. Proper cleaning and storage of your brushes is nearly as important as the painting you do with them. In the end, how well you clean and store your craft paint brushes will determine how long you are crafting and creating with those "investments", and, remember, we want our investments to last a long time.

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