You’ve spent a lot of time on your project getting it ready to finish, so why not finish it right? If you’re going to apply four layers of stains or top coat with a brush, it’s important to use the proper brush for the job. A WoodWorkers Guild of America (WWGOA) original video.
It seems that most brushes on the market today are synthetic. I eventually discovered that “China Bristle” brushes are natural bristle but, finding chisel-tipped varieties has been difficult. Can you suggest a source where I can get chisel-tipped, natural bristle brushes? Thank you.
Hi Ivan. Sure, you can probably find these locally at a paint store or art supply shop. For an on-line resources, here is one that I found for you:
https://www.redtreeind.com/products/2-1-2-americana-china-bristle-brush-12143
Paul
Woodworkers Guild of America
I’d heard the reason not to use a natural bristle brush for water-based finishes, is because the bristles will absorb the water and swell. I don’t know if this is true, but there result is the same – polyester for water-based paint and finish.
Are foam brushes okay for applying stain and lacquer?
Hi Mark,
Here is what our expert had to say: They should be ok for stain, but I believe that lacquer would melt them. I haven’t tried it, as I usually apply stain with a rag and lacquer with a spray gun.
Paul
If you have any other questions, please chat, email, or contact Customer Service at 1-855-253-0822. 
Sincerely,
Codi
Woodworkers Guild of America Video Membership
How about a foam roller? It always gives me a smooth coat. Just put in a ziplock bag to keep it moist between coats
I would like to add a brush to your list. TAKLON. Not your Home Depot brush. Got mine from homestedfinishingproducts.com. The finish is like it was sprayed on. No brush marks. I would not want to try to paint the house with it, but I did do a door frame. George, maybe you would want to review some of homested’s products.
How about the relative merits of Foam brush versus Bristle brushes.
Jim McCulloch
Perth
Australia
Dear Jim,
Thank you for your patience. In response to your question-
I use foam brushes for quick jobs with a lower quality bar. High quality bristle brushes provide higher quality finish in most if not all scenarios. These are the brushes that I use for most scenarios: https://amzn.to/2J6QOYC
Paul
Woodworkers Guild of America
Thank you
How about including foam brushes in the discussion?
Hi Jerry. Thanks for the suggestion. I will forward this on. We appreciate your feedback.
Thanks
Jean-WWGOA Video Membership
A follow up clip on proper cleaning of brushes would be helpful as good brushes are expensive and it hurts to throw them away.