- “A good brush grows with you” — Caring for your tools is the path to better calligraphy
- The Key to a Brush’s Longevity Lies in Post-Use Care
- Restoring Life by Reshaping the Brush Tip
- Proper Drying and Storage Techniques
- Don’t Forget to Protect the Brush Base
- “Letting the Brush Rest” During Periods of Non-Use
- Conclusion: Brushes “Age” Alongside Their Users
“A good brush grows with you” — Caring for your tools is the path to better calligraphy
In calligraphy, a brush is not merely a writing tool — it is a trusted partner that expands your expressive range. However, no matter how high the quality, a brush will quickly deteriorate if not properly maintained or stored.
In this article, we’ll explore practical techniques for extending the life of your brush through careful cleaning and proper storage.
The Key to a Brush’s Longevity Lies in Post-Use Care
Calligraphy brushes are made from animal hair, which means that if ink residue remains deep in the bristles or at the base, it can cause the hair to harden or rot.
The most critical area is the base of the bristles. If ink collects here and forms clumps, the elasticity of the brush is compromised, potentially ruining the entire tool.
- Gently massage the brush in lukewarm water, especially focusing on the base.
- Rinse thoroughly until no ink remains.
- Avoid squeezing — instead, let a cloth or paper towel absorb excess moisture naturally.
- Dry the brush with the tip facing downward in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
The key point: Handle the brush gently and treat it with care, especially the bristles.
Restoring Life by Reshaping the Brush Tip
After washing, it’s essential to reshape the tip of the brush. This is especially true for soft brushes like those made with goat hair — aligning the bristles improves writing performance over time.
For thicker brushes or those made with horsehair, which tend to get unruly, using a fine comb to arrange the bristles is very effective.
Proper Drying and Storage Techniques
During Drying
- Never dry the brush standing upright with the tip facing upward.
- Residual moisture in the base can cause swelling or corrosion in the glued area.
- Ideally, hang the brush on a rack or lay it at a 45-degree angle for drying.
During Storage
- Store the brush in a dry, well-ventilated area.
- When not in use, place it in a paulownia (kiri) box with an appropriate amount of moth repellent like naphthalene or camphor.
- Replace the repellent periodically — leaving it in too long can have negative effects.
In humid climates like Japan’s, mold is a major threat to calligraphy brushes. Never store a damp brush inside a sealed inkstone box or container.
Don’t Forget to Protect the Brush Base
The most common brush failure is a loose or damaged base. This often results from prying open a new brush too forcefully or storing it upright while still wet with ink, which allows moisture to seep into the base.
Always wash the brush thoroughly after use and ensure that the base is completely dry before putting it away.
“Letting the Brush Rest” During Periods of Non-Use
If you won’t be using the brush for several weeks, consider the following steps:
- Shape the tip and wrap it in a cloth (preferably using a brush roll).
- Store it by hanging or laying it flat.
- Add a small amount of moth repellent and keep it in a paulownia box or similar container.
Brushes stored tip-up in a brush holder should only be kept that way temporarily. For long-term storage, avoid this position.
Conclusion: Brushes “Age” Alongside Their Users
A well-used goat hair brush develops a beautiful amber gloss and its tip becomes more transparent over time. A high-quality brush gains character as it ages with its owner.
To extend its life, consistent cleaning, natural drying, and thoughtful storage are essential. This love for your tools becomes the foundation for mastering your art.
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