Tuesday 31 March 2020

How do you solve a problem like Maria,sorry these brushes...

I can’t pop out and buy new brushes, as was my want, so I have collected together those I have shamefully neglected.
They are encrusted with acrylics. How can I restore them rather than have to buy replacements online? All suggestions welcome. I have tried boiling water to little or no avail.

14 comments:

  1. Leave the brushes to soak in 60% Hot Water, 40% Dish Washing Detergent.

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  2. I would also recommend getting hold of a jar of "The Masters" Brush Cleaner and Preserver. I use it a lot to get clogged brushes back to life and to clean my working brushes to keep them unclogged in the first place. It may look like expensive stuff, but it lasts for years. I bought a 2.5oz jar fours years ago and I've barely dented the surface.

    https://www.amazon.co.uk/General-Pencil-Masters-Cleaner-Preserver-2-5/dp/B0027AEANE/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3VSMJMBKE9CB2&keywords=the+masters+brush+cleaner+and+preserver&qid=1585655795&sprefix=brush+cleaner+and+pr%2Caps%2C163&sr=8-1

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  3. I used to be able to get little jars of acrylic brush cleaner locally but its been ages since I've seen any. I may have to check out buying some on line myself.

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  4. I have to second the argument for 'the masters brush cleaner' great stuff, and it really does last for decades.

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  5. Not tried it on paint brushes, but the liquid used in washing machines is a great general dirt shifter. Perhaps try soaking one for a while? (I suspend mine in a jar full of water, using a clothes peg - don't tell MrsJ)

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  6. Intrigued by the figures and Steampunk skirmish game lurking in the background of your desk.
    Some online art and craft shops are still selling online by post such as https://www.airfix.com/uk-en/shop/paints-accessories/brushes-airbrush.html

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  7. The figure on the shelf is an old hobgoblin beside a freebie landsknecht from a wargaming magazine. The wee box in the corner is a starter set for the Ash and Oak adventurers club for the Wolsung steampunk rules. I bought one starter set and the rules but haven’t done anything with them. The figures are detailed and quite charming. Do you know the game?

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  8. This is a new game system to me, they look suitably quirky figures to me.

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  9. I have found that the cheapest available biological washing powder, dissolved in very hot water and thenm the brushes left to soak will shif most things - but don't try on your best sable brushes as it will affect the brush hairs themselves!

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