<|im_start|>user
What type of brushes are typically used to create an acrylic painting?<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant
Paintbrushes are available in a range of widths and may have stiff (bristle) or soft (synthetic or sable) hairs — and short or long handles. Synthetic brushes are less expensive.

Here are some common brush types:
1. Round brushes — A small, round brush (such as a size 3 or smaller) has a rounded, fine tip excellent for precise, detailed work. A large round brush (such as a size 8) carries more paint and is excellent for heavy strokes. A round bristle brush can be used to add texture to a painting through thick, impasto strokes.
2. Flat brushes — A flat brush can make thin lines or wide rectangular strokes.
3. Wash brushes — A wide wash brush (such as a 1 inch) can be used to apply thin washes of color to a painting surface.
4. Fan brush — A fan brush can be used to blend adjacent colors — though acrylics dry quickly and this type of blending brushwork will need to be done fast while the paint is still wet.<|im_end|>
