A painting professional’s passion for brushes runs deep. Purdy, Wooster, Corona, Picasso … mention a brand and every paint pro has an opinion about which one is better and why. Brush manufacturers know this, and work hard to constantly use input from pros to improve their products. Here’s a look at two brush product advancement trends we’re seeing today:

INCREASING CAPACITY

Painting professionals want to cut the number of times they’re dipping the brush back into the bucket, so manufacturers are putting a greater emphasis on brushes with increased loading capabilities.

Earlier this year, Purdy launched its XL High Capacity line with increased filament for higher capacity and release capabilities and their beavertail handle for comfort and balance. The brushes are available at Sherwin-Williams stores and will be at other retailers after July 1.

Last year, Corona launched its Performance Chinex series extra-long brushes with both square edge and angular sash options.

“This was something we had been working on for some time. We felt we should expand our popular Chinex line with some new workhorse brushes that feature a longer trim length to hold more paint, saving painters even more time on the job—while still providing the Corona quality they’ve come to expect,” said Michael Waksman, Corona’s marketing director.

VALUE PLAYS A ROLE

Wooster recently released its Gold Edge paintbrush line, a lower-cost option to its popular Silver Tip brushes with similar performance. Using its firmer CT polyester filament, the brush brings added rigidity, which helps with thicker coatings, company officials note.

Overall, officials are finding, the brush “performs far better than its price point suggests,” said Chuck Cline, brush development and manufacturing engineer with the company.

Also going for the value play is a new company in the market. Only about a year old, Wolf Paint Supply Co originated with the idea to offer performance like that seen from products by Purdy and Wooster but at a better price, about 25–30% less, said Michael Dinh, Wolf’s brand manager. The company has gone the direct-to-consumer route by selling online but will likely partner with select retailers in the coming year. Currently, Wolf is predominantly gaining traction in Canada and the UK.

To learn more about the latest in product trends or to read the full-length feature article in the June issue, visit inpaintmag.com