The Magic of One-Brush Minimalism: The Surprising Benefits of Using a Single Brush in Your Art

Ep.75 guest Patti Vincent has found that while there are unlimited options when it comes to brushes, the benefits of using one far outweigh any downsides.

Vincent’s one brush is a Raphael Kaerell (Number 8796), size 16 Flat.

She’s found a brush that feels good to use and has versatility of marks and lines. But mostly what she loves is that by having just one brush… she only has to worry about one brush.

Put it to Practice:

Here are the benefits you might experience by using just one brush.

First, you'll need to cart around less stuff in your plein air or even studio set up. The less stuff you have, the fewer obstacles between you and painting.

Second, now that you're only working with one brush, you can buy backups of that same brush. Put them in all the places you could paint.

This means your kit is ready to go if your afternoon suddenly opens up for painting. Or you have a set in your car for when you suddenly find yourself with a long wait somewhere.

By having multiples, you can have separate kits all ready to go if and when you have opportunities to paint.

Third, it also means you really learn what this one brush can do. It helps you get into trouble but also problem solve your way out of the trouble.

Fourth, one brush helps you create more visual cohesion. All of your marks will come from the same size and shape of brush. This will help unify them within your painting. While brush marks don’t make as big a difference in visual unity as say a limited palette, they do make some difference in creating a painting that is harmonious.

If you haven't tried one brush, it's worth spending a week or two giving it a try.

It might be awkward at first as you learn what it can (and can't) do, but there are serious benefits.