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Trekell Insights

How to Paint Fur Without Painting Every Hair

When Trekell Pro Team Artist Kai Lun Qu painted his newly rescued cat, Gigi, he approached her coat as larger masses of color and value rather than thousands of individual hairs. Using Trekell Opal Flat brushes, Kai builds the portrait from simple shapes to selective details that create the illusion of fur. Fur can feel overwhelming to paint when you begin by thinking about every individual strand. In reality, we do not usually perceive an animal’s coat that way. From a normal viewing distance, individual hairs combine into larger shapes of light, dark and color. For this portrait, Kai painted Gigi on Trekell’s Limited Edition Kitty Panel from the Gore Store Collection. By beginning with a simple drawing and gradually refining larger shapes, he created a convincing portrait without getting lost in unnecessary detail. Watch the full painting demonstration below. Begin with the Simplest Version of the Subject Kai starts Gigi’s portrait with a basic drawing that captures her overall character and proportions. At this stage, he is not trying to describe fur, whiskers or tiny changes in color. He is establishing the simplest version of the subject first, creating a foundation that can support everything that comes later. From there, Kai begins laying in the local colors of the larger areas of the portrait. This approach makes the painting more manageable. Instead of trying to solve the entire portrait at once, he starts with the broad structure and builds from there. Think in Masses, Not Individual Hairs Fur is made of countless individual strands, but that does not mean every strand needs to be painted. “Our perception of fur is that it is many small strands of hairs grouped together,” Kai explains. “But optically, those small individual strands are impossible for the human eye to perceive from a comfortable distance.” At that distance, the hairs visually merge into larger groups of color and value. “What we think is thousands of individual strands end up looking like bigger masses of colors and values,” Kai says. That observation changes the problem completely. Instead of asking how to paint every hair, begin by asking where the larger light and dark masses are, how they relate to one another and how they describe the animal’s form. Build from Large Shapes to Small After establishing the local colors, Kai begins adding medium and smaller shapes of light and dark. These shapes gradually give the portrait more specificity. They help clarify the eyes, nose, face and changes in the direction of Gigi’s coat without covering the surface in individual hair marks. In the demonstration, Kai describes this stage as the point where the added shapes begin to “capture the essence of her portrait” and make Gigi look more like Gigi. The key is that smaller shapes build on top of a strong larger structure. They refine the portrait rather than replace its foundation. Use Darks to Judge the Rest As the painting develops, Kai establishes the dark shadows around Gigi’s face and the dark background behind her. This immediately helps her face come forward, but it also gives him a clearer reference for judging the remaining values in the portrait. Once the darkest areas are in place, it becomes easier to see whether surrounding parts of the face need to be lighter, darker, warmer or cooler before the final adjustments are made. Value is always relative. A light area can appear brighter next to a dark background, while a middle value may look darker when surrounded by a lighter area. Establishing the dark end of the range gives the other values something to be compared against. Let the Brush Help You Simplify Kai uses Trekell Opal Flat brushes for his oil paintings. The shape of the brush supports the way he approaches fur because it encourages him to think in larger, connected masses rather than tiny individual strands. “Using the flat brush allows me to paint only those big mass and not be tempted to try and paint each and every strand,” Kai says. The broad face of a Flat can lay in larger areas of color and value efficiently. Its edge and corners can also create more controlled marks as forms become smaller and more specific. There is no one correct brush size for painting fur. The right size depends on the scale of the painting and the area being worked on. The goal is to choose a brush that helps you make the mark you need, rather than automatically reaching for the smallest tool available. Create the Illusion of Detail Painting in larger masses does not mean avoiding detail altogether. It means using detail intentionally. Kai adds only a few smaller shapes, especially where light meets dark. Those marks can suggest changes in the direction, thickness and texture of the fur without requiring an artist to paint every individual hair. “With only perhaps a few smaller shapes we can put here and there where light meets dark, that creates the illusion that there is more details, or in this case, individual hairs,” Kai explains. Once the larger masses describe the animal’s form convincingly, the viewer’s eye fills in the rest. A small number of well-placed marks can suggest a much more detailed coat than is actually painted. Save Whiskers for Last Whiskers are among the final details Kai adds to the portrait. By this point, Gigi already looks like Gigi. The larger shapes, local colors, values and shadows have already created the likeness. The whiskers add specificity, but they are not responsible for making the portrait work. This is an important reminder when painting detailed subjects. Fine details can strengthen a painting, but they cannot replace strong structure, value relationships and larger shapes. Paint the Idea of Fur A convincing animal portrait does not require painting every hair you know is there. When painting fur, try simplifying the process: Begin with the basic structure and character of the subject. Establish the larger areas of local color before adding smaller shapes. Look for masses of color and value rather than individual hairs. Build from large shapes into medium and smaller shapes. Establish dark values to help judge the rest of the painting. Use a brush that encourages you to work at the appropriate scale. Add smaller marks selectively where they help create the illusion of detail. Save whiskers and other fine details until the larger portrait is working. The goal is not to show the viewer every strand of fur. It is to give the eye enough information to understand that those strands are there. The Takeaway Kai Lun Qu’s portrait of Gigi is built on simplification. He begins with a basic drawing, establishes larger areas of local color, gradually introduces smaller shapes and uses dark values to judge the rest of the portrait. His approach to fur follows the same principle. Instead of painting thousands of individual hairs, he paints the larger masses we actually perceive and adds only enough smaller detail to create the illusion of more. The next time you paint fur, resist the urge to reach for a tiny brush and start painting hairs. Step back from the reference first and look for the larger shapes. There may be far less to paint than you think. Tools Kai Used Trekell Opal Flat Brushes Trekell Limited Edition Kitty Panel

How Shaped Panels Can Inspire Your Next Painting

For Trekell Pro Team Artist Danica Sills, the painting often begins before she decides what to paint. She chooses the panel first, then lets its shape spark ideas, influence the composition and become part of the finished artwork. A blank rectangle leaves almost every decision open. A shaped panel gives you something to react to before you make the first mark. For Danica, that is where the inspiration begins. When she sees a shaped Trekell panel, she starts with the images, moods and associations connected to its silhouette. Those first thoughts become the foundation for the painting. For this piece, Danica chose a Trekell Coffin Panel from the Gore Store Collection. The shape immediately suggested a vampire, but instead of stopping at the obvious idea, she used it as the starting point for a more personal scene: a vampire comfortable and cozy at home. Watch Danica’s painting process below. Choose the Panel First Danica does not usually begin with a finished concept and then search for a panel to fit it. She works in reverse. “I always pick out my panel first,” Danica says. “I find the blank panel so inspiring.” Starting with the surface gives her a creative prompt before she has chosen a subject. The shape begins narrowing an otherwise endless number of possibilities and gives the painting a sense of direction from the start. “I feel like I’m just starting miles ahead,” she explains in the video. “I already have so many ideas and associations with the shapes of the panels.” Instead of facing a completely blank rectangle and asking what belongs there, the silhouette has already started the conversation. Follow Your First Associations When Danica chooses a shaped panel, she pays attention to the ideas that immediately come to mind. “I usually have a flood of initial thoughts and associations I have with the shape,” she says. “I start by writing out a list of those first ideas for the painting.” Those initial associations do not need to become the finished concept. They are simply the first branch of the idea. Danica looks for ways to twist, combine and develop them into something she is excited to paint. With the Coffin Panel, vampire was the first and strongest association. But she did not want to create only a traditionally dark or frightening vampire scene. “I wanted her comfortable and cozy in her home, a feeling I’m always craving around this time of year,” Danica says. The Coffin Panel provided the first spark. The finished painting came from letting that spark grow into something more specific. “It all feels like a tree of inspiration branching off from that first spark I had with the panel shape.” Compose for the Shape Choosing the panel first changes more than the subject. It also changes the way Danica designs the composition. “I find the process of sketching and composing the piece to be much smoother when I can design with the shape of the panel,” she says. “I love creating paintings that flow with the panel.” Rather than designing an image for a rectangle and adapting it later, Danica can use the final silhouette from the beginning. The outer edge becomes part of the composition, influencing where the figure sits, how the negative space is arranged and where the viewer’s eye moves through the painting. The goal is to create a painting that belongs on that specific panel, not an image that could just as easily be cropped into a traditional rectangle. Use Contrast to Develop the Idea A shaped panel can reinforce the subject of a painting, but it can also create an interesting contrast with it. Danica often references Memento Mori in her work, so the Coffin Panel naturally connects to themes she already enjoys exploring. “The coffin shape anchors the heavier side of the motif while I can lean into life and light in the image I’m painting,” she explains. That contrast gives Danica room to explore bones, flowers and moths without making every part of the painting feel equally dark. The Coffin Panel establishes one side of the emotional tone, while the imagery inside it can bring in warmth, beauty, life or humor. Her Vampire painting uses the same approach. The panel brings immediate associations of darkness, death and Halloween. The subject inside it brings comfort, coziness and the quieter magic of the season. One Shape Can Create Many Paintings Danica has a stack of Coffin Panels waiting to be painted, but using the same silhouette does not mean repeating the same concept. “I love the Coffin Panel because it supports some of my favorite themes so well,” she says. One panel may lead to a Memento Mori painting with bones, flowers or moths. Another may suggest Halloween night, a whimsical scene or something lighter and more playful. “When I want to paint something more whimsical and lighthearted, this panel gives a perfect counterpoint,” Danica says. “This Vampire painting is a perfect example of how I like to combine the eeriness and magic of the season.” That is what makes shaped panels useful as creative prompts. The panel gives you direction, but it does not dictate the outcome. You can return to the same shape again and again, each time following a different branch of inspiration. Let the Surface Inspire the Subject If you usually decide what to paint before choosing a surface, try reversing the process for your next piece. Choose a shaped panel before deciding on a subject. Write down the first images, themes and moods the shape brings to mind. Look beyond the most obvious interpretation. Combine or twist your first ideas until they become something personal. Decide whether the subject should reinforce or contrast with the mood of the shape. Sketch directly for the silhouette instead of adapting a rectangular composition later. Use the outer edge of the panel as part of the composition. You do not have to follow a shaped panel literally. Treat it as the first creative constraint and see where it takes you. The Takeaway For Danica Sills, a shaped panel is not simply an alternative to a rectangular painting surface. It is part of the idea from the very beginning. She chooses the panel first, follows the associations it creates, develops those thoughts into something more personal and designs the painting specifically for the shape. Sometimes the surface reinforces the subject. Sometimes it creates contrast. Either way, it gives the artist somewhere to start. The next time you are unsure what to paint, try changing the question. Choose a shape first, then ask what it makes you think of. That first association may be all you need. Explore the Gore Store Danica’s Coffin Panel is part of Trekell’s Gore Store Collection, featuring limited edition Halloween-inspired wood panels designed to give artists a different place to start. The Gore Store Collection is available during September and October. Once spooky season ends, these shapes disappear until next year.

How Carlo Miranda Painted Crochet Without Painting Every Stitch

When Trekell Pro Team Artist Carlo Miranda decided to paint a crocheted balaclava, he was working with a subject full of color, pattern and texture he had never painted before. His solution was not to copy every loop of yarn. It was to find the structure underneath it. Complex textiles can feel intimidating. Crochet, knitwear, lace and patterned fabrics all contain a huge amount of visual information. If an artist tries to paint every thread individually, the subject can quickly become overwhelming. For this portrait on a Trekell Crescent Moon Panel, Carlo approached the balaclava as an experiment. He studied its repeating patterns, organized the value relationships and used selective detail to suggest the softness and construction of the material. Watch the full painting demonstration below. Look for Structure Before Detail Carlo was drawn to this subject because he wanted to experiment with painting different materials and textiles. “Lately I’ve been obsessed with observing the patterns in things,” Carlo says. That observation became the starting point for the balaclava. Rather than seeing a mass of individual loops, colors and stitches, Carlo looked for the larger repeating structure that made the material read as crochet. Understanding how the fabric is woven together helped him decide which details mattered most. The goal was not to reproduce every stitch. It was to make the painted version feel believable. “I think it helped understanding how things are woven together so that when you paint it, it makes sense,” he explains. Start with the Focal Point Carlo began by preparing his Trekell Crescent Moon Panel, then moved into the face and hair before building the crocheted balaclava around them. Starting with the portrait established the focal point of the composition. It also gave him a clear reference for the value and color relationships surrounding the face. Once that foundation was in place, the balaclava could be simplified into larger shapes instead of being treated as hundreds of separate painted stitches. Build Texture with Value Carlo’s plan for the crochet was to establish the midtones and darks first, then return with highlights to suggest the surface texture of the yarn. “My plan is to lay down the midtones and darks, then come back with some highlights,” Carlo says. This sequence is useful for any complex material. Darker passages establish the recesses and overlap within the fabric. Midtones create the larger body of the form. Highlights can then be placed selectively to suggest the raised, soft surface of the crochet. By working from larger value masses toward smaller details, Carlo kept the subject from becoming visually confusing. Simplify What You See The balaclava was not a straightforward single-color textile. It was woven with white yarn, then sprayed with a colorful pattern. As the fabric stretched, portions of the white yarn showed through between the colors. That created a lot of competing information in the reference, particularly when it came to value. “The biggest challenge was getting the values correctly in the multitude of colors,” Carlo says. “As the fabric stretched, the white showed through, which overcomplicated the subject.” Instead of reproducing every shift in color and every exposed bit of yarn, Carlo simplified the information in front of him. “I didn’t necessarily paint what I saw, but what made sense.” That is a useful distinction for artists working from reference. A painting does not have to copy every visible detail to feel accurate. In many cases, simplifying the reference helps the material read more clearly. Find Order in Complex Subjects Patterned fabric can become overwhelming when every color, stitch and edge demands equal attention. Carlo’s approach was to organize the chaos. By grouping the balaclava into larger areas of light, middle and dark values, he could create form first. The smaller shifts in color and texture then became supporting details rather than distractions. “Our brains don’t like to look at complex, convoluted things, so when you find the pattern and organization in things, it’s pleasing to the eye,” Carlo says. This idea applies to far more than crochet. It can help when painting lace, patterned clothing, foliage, hair, reflections or any subject that appears difficult because it contains too much visual information. Choose the Right Mark Carlo used Trekell Golden Taklon brushes for the painting, including Script, Round and Filbert shapes. Each shape helped him make a different kind of mark as the portrait and textile developed. Trekell Golden Taklon Filbert: Useful for broader passages, curved forms and softer transitions. Trekell Golden Taklon Round: Useful for controlled shapes, smaller forms and refined detail. Trekell Golden Taklon Script: Useful for long, fine linear marks and delicate detail work. The best brush is not determined by the subject alone. It is determined by the mark you need. A complex textile may require broad, soft passages in one area and fine linear accents in another. Use Removal as a Painting Tool Carlo did not create every detail by adding paint. He also used a Trekell Wipe Out Tool to carve out the marigolds in the composition. When working into wet paint, removing paint can clarify a shape, sharpen an edge or reveal part of the layer underneath. It can be especially effective for small details that would become muddy if more paint were added on top. The Wipe Out Tool is a reminder that creating detail is not always about reaching for the smallest brush. Sometimes the clearest mark comes from taking paint away. Paint the Idea of Crochet The finished balaclava reads as soft, colorful crochet, even though Carlo did not paint every piece of yarn individually. When painting a detailed material, try simplifying the problem: Look for the pattern that organizes the surface. Establish large value relationships before adding texture. Consider how the material is constructed. Use detail where it helps explain the form. Leave out information that distracts from the overall image. A few well-placed details can communicate texture more effectively than an exact rendering of every stitch. The Takeaway Carlo Miranda’s crocheted balaclava began as an experiment in painting an unfamiliar material. By studying its structure, organizing its values and simplifying what he saw, he turned a complicated textile into a clear and convincing painted surface. When a subject feels too detailed to paint, do not begin by trying to copy everything. Start with the pattern, the value structure and the overall form. Then add only the details that make the subject feel real. Tools Carlo Used Trekell Golden Taklon Script Trekell Golden Taklon Round Trekell Golden Taklon Filbert Trekell Wipe Out Tool Trekell Crescent Moon Panel

Mastering Soft Brushes: A Quick Guide to Choosing the Right Synthetic Brush

Not all soft synthetic brushes behave the same way. In this Trekell demonstration, Pro Team Artist Eric Johnson explains how brush filament, shape and firmness affect everything from glazing and blending to texture and fine detail. Soft brushes are often grouped together, but each brush line has its own feel on the canvas. Some are better for laying down smooth passages of paint. Others excel at delicate glazing, softened edges or controlled texture. In this demonstration, Eric walks through Trekell’s Spectrum, Golden Taklon, Sienna, Legion and Mop brushes, then puts them to work in real time. Watch the full demonstration below. What Makes One Soft Brush Different from Another? It comes down to the individual synthetic filaments, their diameter, taper, surface texture and overall spring. Finer filaments generally create a softer feel, while thicker filaments have more strength to move paint. Tapered tips also help a brush come to a cleaner point and create more controlled marks. As Eric explains, “The brush is simply the vehicle that delivers the paint from the palette to the painting.” The right vehicle depends on the kind of mark you want to make. A Quick Guide to Trekell’s Soft Synthetic Brushes Golden Taklon: For Delicate Glazes and Soft Transitions Golden Taklon brushes have smooth filaments and a responsive feel that makes them especially useful for subtle, delicate passages. Eric often reaches for them when manipulating thin, oily glazes or when he wants to gently diffuse paint without losing control. Spectrum: For Smooth, Even Paint Application Spectrum brushes are soft, but they have enough structure to lay down flatter, more solid passages of paint. Eric favors them for refined painting where he wants even coverage and controlled edges without excessive blending. Sienna: For Smooth Painting with More Presence Sienna brushes are synthetic Kolinsky sable brushes with textured filaments designed to mimic the feel of natural hair. They offer a slightly more assertive application than very soft, smooth-filament brushes while still working beautifully for controlled and refined painting. Legion: For Texture, Brushwork and Highlights Legion synthetic mongoose brushes have thicker, more resilient filaments. They are a strong choice when you want to move paint more decisively, preserve visible brushwork or create highlights with a little more texture and character. “I use the softer brushes when I’m wanting that more polished, smoother sort of application,” Eric says. For painterly passages and broken marks, he often chooses a brush with more authority instead. Mop Brushes: For Blending and Softening Mop brushes are ideal for feathering transitions, softening an edge and reducing unintended paint ridges. Used with a light touch, they can blend without aggressively scrubbing into the painting or flattening every bit of brushwork. They are especially helpful near the finishing stages of a painting, when a subtle transition can make a form feel more dimensional. Match the Brush to the Job For glazing: Try Golden Taklon rounds, liners or cat’s tongues for thin, controlled layers of paint. For smooth passages: Use Spectrum or Sienna brushes to create even coverage while maintaining control. For softened edges: Use a Mop brush with minimal pressure to gently diffuse a transition or reduce paint texture. For fine lines: Choose a liner or rigger. Their longer hairs are designed to hold paint and create fine, continuous marks. For textured highlights: Reach for Legion when you want paint to retain a more visible, painterly character. Brush Shape Matters, Too Brush line is only part of the decision. Shape changes the kind of mark a brush can make. Rounds are versatile tools that can handle both small forms and finer linear details. Liners and riggers are better suited to long, precise lines, while cat’s tongue brushes combine the broad application of a filbert with a more pointed tip. Eric also notes that surface matters. A smoother panel or finely prepared oil ground is well suited to softer brushes and polished detail. On rougher linen, artists may prefer a brush with more firmness until the surface texture has been filled. Technique and Care Tips Load paint onto the brush without pushing it deep into the ferrule. Avoid aggressive scrubbing motions, which can splay soft brush hairs over time. Use light pressure for blending and final details. A mahl stick can help steady your hand. After cleaning paint out with oil, follow up with brush soap so oil does not dry near the ferrule. The Takeaway There is no single best soft brush. The best choice depends on whether you need a smooth glaze, a softened edge, precise linework or a more textured brushstroke. Experimenting with different brush lines helps you make those choices intentionally. Watch Eric’s full demonstration to see each brush in action, then try introducing one unfamiliar shape or filament type into your next painting. Shop the Brushes Used

What Happens When Two Artists Swap Their Favorite Brushes?

When Trekell Pro Team Artists Alex Garant and James Ormiston painted portraits of each other, there was one rule. They had to use the other person’s favorite brushes. Why Swap Brushes at All? Every artist develops habits in the studio. The brushes you reach for, the way you hold them and the motions you make across the canvas all become second nature over time. Alex is known for her surreal oil portraits and buttery smooth blends, built with small Golden Taklon rounds, cat’s tongue brushes and soft mop brushes. James, on the other hand, relies on flat brushes and a pixel like way of placing paint. For this six minute portrait challenge, they decided to trade tools. Alex painted James using his flats. James painted Alex using her small round, cat’s tongue and mop brush. The portraits were of each other. The tools were completely unfamiliar. Alex: Learning to Paint with Flats Alex’s usual process is built around dabbing color into place. She studies her reference in color zones and taps small marks onto the surface with her Golden Taklon rounds, cat’s tongue and mop. Switching to flats changed that immediately. “I usually analyze my reference image by color zone and try to replicate it by dabbing the canvas. With flats, I found myself having to slide the brush across the surface instead of dabbing it. The shape of the brush redefined my physical movements.” It was not just the marks that changed. The way she held the brush and moved her arm had to adapt. Even after years of repeating the same motion, the slightest change of tool required new adjustments. Finding What Flats Do Well At first, flats felt difficult and unfamiliar. But once she stopped trying to make them behave like her usual brushes, Alex discovered a strength she had not expected. “I really appreciated the sharpness of the edge when painting hair. By loading the brush carefully and using almost no pressure, I was able to create really nice, thin hair strands.” She mostly reached for the largest flat, because she felt she could control the pressure better. By leaning into the natural edge of the brush, she began to use it for what it did best instead of forcing it into her old routine. Would Flats Join Her Regular Toolkit? By the end of the portrait, Alex was surprised to realize that flats had earned a place in her studio. “Yes, they would be complementary to my current roster of brushes, especially for the final stages and detail work.” If she did the challenge again, she says she would ask James to send a larger range of sizes, both smaller small brushes and larger large brushes, to push the experiment further. Alex’s Advice on Trying New Brushes When asked what she would say to an artist who is hesitant to try a different brush shape, Alex’s answer is simple. “The need to experiment and better ourselves as artists is such an important part of the artist journey. Trying new materials is a good way to attempt to improve our art and see what works, and sometimes what doesn’t.” She still believes it is healthy to know what works in the studio. The tools you use help define your style. The goal is not to replace every familiar brush, but to stay open to tools that might add something new. James: Trading Flats for Cats’ Tongues and Mop Brushes James normally paints in tiny, pixel like brushstrokes using flats. He places small squares of color side by side and lets gradients appear over time. That approach fits the clean, square edge of a flat brush. Alex’s favorite brushes are the opposite. Her Golden Taklon cat’s tongue and mop brushes are designed for soft edges, smooth blends and almost invisible strokes. For James, that meant rethinking his entire approach. First Impressions of Alex’s Brushes “I have a very particular approach where I tend to paint in pixel like brushstrokes. Flats, with their sharp, square edges, lend themselves nicely to this. Alex’s cat’s tongue and mop brushes are the antithesis to this. They’re better at creating smooth, seamless transitions, so I had to rethink my entire process.” The mop brush, in particular, felt strange at first. “Soft edges, seamless blends, invisible brushstrokes. That is everything I stand against.” How the Mop Brush Won Him Over Despite his resistance, the mop brush slowly became the surprise favorite. James admits that he spent the early stages trying to make Alex’s brushes perform the same tricks as his flats. At some point, he let them do what they were made for. “My work deals a lot with memory and nostalgia, and I found that blowing out the edges with the mop adds a hazy, analogue film effect that, despite myself, injects the very sense of nostalgia I was going for.” By letting the mop brush soften edges instead of fighting it, he achieved a slightly blurry, decayed film look that fit his themes better than he expected. Did It Change His Practice? The challenge did more than change one portrait. It may have shifted James’s broader direction. “Not only the portrait, but possibly the direction of my whole practice, which is actually very inconvenient because I am midway through preparing for a solo show and that is not the ideal time for an abrupt shift in aesthetic. But I am obsessed with the slightly blurry, decayed film look I achieved with the mop brush, so I am seeing where that goes.” Both the cat’s tongue and the mop brush have now made their way into his regular rotation. His flats, he jokes, are “staring at them jealousy from across the palette.” James’s Advice on Leaving the Comfort Zone James describes himself as someone who hates change. His life is structured around routine and predictability. Even so, he begrudgingly admits that shaking things up has helped breathe new life into his studio practice. His advice for artists who are hesitant to try a different brush shape is to acknowledge that comfort is important, especially when you rely on your tools for daily work, but also to recognize the need for challenge. “Part of being a working artist is finding tools and approaches that work reliably well. Another important part is keeping things interesting, and that usually means challenging yourself with new approaches, new directions and yes, new tools.” He also points out that the goal of a challenge like this is not to prove your usual technique works under every circumstance. It is to let unfamiliar tools teach you something new. Sometimes the best ideas come from giving up a little control. What This Brush Swap Reveals For both Alex Garant and James Ormiston, painting each other’s portraits with unfamiliar brushes did not erase their styles. It highlighted them. Alex discovered how flat brushes can sharpen hair and fine lines, and how small changes in tool affect the way she moves across the canvas. James discovered how cat’s tongue and mop brushes can create hazy, nostalgic edges that fit his themes of memory and analogue imagery. Both artists were reminded that experimentation does not have to replace trusted tools. It can expand what those tools can do. Whether you usually work with flats, rounds, cat’s tongues or mop brushes, each shape has its own strengths. Picking up a brush you never use may feel awkward at first, but it can also reveal movements, edges and surfaces you would not have found any other way. Sometimes the most useful thing you can do for your practice is to borrow someone else’s favorite brush and see what it teaches you.

Why Sometimes the Best Brushstroke Is the One You Leave Alone

Trekell Pro Team Artist Josh Sorrell paints a 5" x 5" portrait using only three Trekell brushes and shares one of the biggest lessons he has learned over the last decade: recognizing a successful brushstroke and having the confidence to leave it alone. Working Small with Just Three Brushes For this portrait, Josh challenged himself to work on a 5" x 5" wood panel using only three Trekell brushes from the Spectrum and Hog Bristle lines. Two are Hog Bristle fan brushes, and the third is a Spectrum bright. On a panel this small, even the smallest brush feels relatively large. That limited toolkit helped simplify his process. Instead of chasing tiny details, Josh had to think about shapes, value, and brushwork with every stroke. Great Paintings Often Feel Effortless During this series of 5" x 5" paintings, one observation stood out. This portrait took less time than the other four and still turned out the best. Josh notes that this is not unusual for him. Many of his favorite paintings are also the ones that felt the most effortless to create. Rather than forcing every detail into place, he focused on making strong decisions early and allowing the painting to develop naturally. Sometimes confidence produces a stronger result than perfectionism. Learning to Recognize a Great Brushstroke One of Josh’s favorite areas in this painting appeared almost immediately. Using the hog bristle fan brushes in the early stages, he created loose, wispy marks in the lower right corner that had movement and energy he could not have planned. He recognized those strokes as special and decided to protect them for the rest of the painting. As he says, those are the marks you cannot replicate a second time if you tried. Knowing when not to paint can be just as important as knowing where to paint next. Shape Based Drawing and Big Value Masses Josh follows a shape based approach to drawing. Rather than starting with small facial features, he begins by establishing the larger value masses first. He blocks in the negative space, identifies midtones and highlights, and gradually builds the portrait from large, simple shapes before refining smaller forms. This method creates a strong foundation while keeping the painting loose and expressive. Why Limiting Your Brushes Can Help Using only two hog bristle fan brushes and one Spectrum bright held Josh back from overworking detail on a small panel. The fan brushes left thin, broken strokes and texture, while the bright gave him more solid, controlled marks when he needed to reinforce structure. Working with bigger brushes relative to the panel size forced him to stay focused on overall design instead of tiny corrections. Sometimes fewer choices lead to better decisions. A Simple Color Palette Although several colors were already on his palette from other paintings, Josh only needed a handful to complete this portrait. His working palette included: Ultramarine blue Yellow ochre Cadmium yellow Cadmium yellow light Titanium white Ivory black This limited palette kept the color relationships simple and let the brushwork and value structure carry most of the image. It is a reminder that rich, expressive paintings do not require dozens of paint colors. Meet “Defiant” Josh titled the finished painting Defiant, inspired by the mood that emerged as the portrait developed. Using himself as the reference, he noticed an intensity in the downward gaze and deep shadows that gave the piece a quiet sense of resistance. Interestingly, the title came naturally after the painting was finished rather than before it began. It raises a question for viewers: if you saw this painting without knowing its title, what emotion would you give it? Products Used Trekell Hog Bristle Fan Brushes Trekell Spectrum Bright Brush Final Thoughts Josh Sorrell’s demonstration is not only about painting with three brushes on a small panel. It is about trusting your instincts. Learning to recognize successful brushwork, resisting the urge to overwork a painting, and simplifying your process are lessons that apply whether you are painting a portrait, landscape, or still life. Sometimes the most important brushstroke is not the next one. It is knowing when you have already painted enough.

Julie Beck’s Go‑To Trekell Brushes for Every Stage of an Oil Painting

Every painting is a bit of a battle, and Trekell Pro Team Artist Julie Beck trusts specific Trekell brushes and tools at each stage to help her win it. Over time, every artist develops a workflow that feels natural. For Julie Beck, each stage of an oil painting calls for a different tool. Rather than relying on one brush to do everything, she uses Trekell Long Filbert Hog Bristles, Spectrum Brights, Spectrum Liners, and the Trekell Wipeout Tool to build energy, refine shapes, and add the final details. The images in this tutorial highlight different areas of one painting and show which Trekell tools she used to create each effect. Starting Loose with Long Filbert Hog Bristles Julie begins her paintings with Trekell Long Filbert Hog Bristle Brushes. She describes them as aggressive, scratchy, and not interested in perfection. Natural hog bristles are ideal for the early stages of an oil painting, where expressive marks and confident brushwork matter more than perfect edges. Their firm texture pushes thicker paint across the surface while creating broken edges and varied marks that keep the painting feeling alive. Julie uses these brushes to break things down, establish movement and texture, and lay in the overall foundation of the piece before worrying about details. Refining Shapes with Spectrum Brights As the painting develops, Julie switches to Trekell Spectrum Bright Brushes. She calls these brights clean, confident, and a little more calculated. The firm synthetic bristles and crisp square edge make them ideal for simplifying shapes and strengthening form. Spectrum Brights bring order to the chaos created by the hog bristles. Their solid, deliberate strokes help organize the painting as larger masses become more defined. Julie relies on these brushes throughout the middle stages, using their mark making to continuously think about shapes and structure rather than getting lost in small details. In areas like the painted wall and base, the hog bristles create broken, textural passages while Spectrum Brights sit on top with clearer planes and controlled edges. This combination keeps the surface lively but still readable. Finishing Details with Spectrum Liners When it is time to refine the smallest details, Julie reaches for Trekell Spectrum Liner Brushes. She describes them as slow, precise, and yet flexible. These brushes combine excellent paint capacity with exceptional control, making them perfect for long, consistent lines and intricate finishing work. Julie uses Spectrum Liners for graffiti, small stickers, crisp edges, and any mark that needs commitment. They demand focus with every line, but hold a lot of paint, so she can create smooth, uninterrupted strokes without constantly reloading. The marks are super consistent and the paint flows right off the brush. On the blue mailbox, you can see how the hog bristles established early texture, Spectrum Brights built solid shapes and planes, and Spectrum Liners finished the lettering, stickers, and crisp edges. Each tool has a role, and together they create a cohesive, detailed surface. The Tool That Helps Save a Painting: Trekell Wipeout Tool Not every great painting comes from adding more paint. Sometimes the best solution is removing it. That is where the Trekell Wipeout Tool comes in. Julie calls the Wipeout Tool her safety net and secret weapon. She uses it to fix mistakes, carve back into shapes, clean up edges, and sometimes completely reinvent a passage without piling on more paint. The pointed end offers precision for smaller corrections, while the flat edge functions almost like a miniature squeegee for broader adjustments. By lifting or pushing paint instead of endlessly adding more, she can keep layers from getting muddy and maintain clarity in her forms. How Julie’s Trekell Workflow Comes Together Julie’s workflow remains consistent even as each painting presents its own challenges: She starts with Long Filbert Hog Bristles to establish energy, texture, and expressive brushwork. She transitions to Spectrum Brights to organize shapes, strengthen form, and bring order to the surface. She finishes with Spectrum Liners for clean, confident details and crisp lines. Throughout the process, the Trekell Wipeout Tool gives her the flexibility to make changes, carve back, and rescue passages without sacrificing freshness. Every painting is a constant push and pull. Not every piece is the same, but Julie can use the same Trekell tools to tackle any challenge that comes up, moving from rough beginnings to refined finishes while keeping the painting alive. Final Thoughts Watching experienced artists like Julie Beck work is a reminder that great paintings are not created with a single “perfect” brush. They are built by choosing the right tool for each stage of the process. If you want a brush setup that supports loose block‑ins, structured forms, precise details, and on‑the‑fly corrections, consider trying Julie’s combination of Trekell Long Filbert Hog Bristles, Spectrum Brights, Spectrum Liners, and the Trekell Wipeout Tool in your next oil painting.

Why Alex Garant Uses Soft Synthetic Brushes for Oil Painting

Trekell Pro Team Artist Alex Garant explains why she avoids traditional hog bristle oil brushes and instead relies on soft synthetic Mop brushes and Golden Taklon brushes to create smooth, controlled oil paintings. Rethinking “Traditional” Oil Painting Brushes When most artists think about oil painting, they picture stiff hog bristle brushes loaded with thick paint. These brushes have been the traditional choice for generations and they are still the perfect tool for many painters. Alex Garant takes a different approach. Despite being an oil painter, she does not use traditional oil painting brushes for her oils. For the kind of smooth blends and clean edges she wants, the standard hog bristle brush works against her goals instead of supporting them. Why Hog Bristle Brushes Are Not Her Preference Traditional oil painting brushes are typically made with hog bristles that are designed to move heavy bodied paint across the canvas. The stiff hairs can create bold, expressive marks and visible texture. Alex finds that same stiffness leaves brushstrokes in the paint and can even lift wet paint from the surface when too much pressure is applied. Rather than fighting these qualities, she prefers to work with brushes that naturally support the finish she is aiming for. What Soft Synthetic Brushes Do Differently Instead of hog bristles, Alex paints almost exclusively with soft synthetic brushes. Their softer fibers glide across the surface, allowing the paint to level more smoothly and giving her greater control over each transition. One of the differences she notices most is opacity. Because the brush lays paint down evenly, she can work with very thin layers that still cover well. She does not have to build up thick applications of paint just to hide the underpainting. Simply choosing a softer brush changes how opaque those thin layers can be. Smooth Transitions and Clean Edges Alex’s portraits rely on subtle shifts in value and color. Whether she is blending facial features or creating her signature doubled imagery, she wants every transition to feel soft and intentional. Soft synthetic brushes help her apply thin, opaque layers of paint, blend smooth transitions between colors, maintain crisp edges where needed, reduce visible brushstrokes and create the buttery surface that has become a hallmark of her work. For her, the goal is for the brush to disappear so the painting itself takes center stage. The Trekell Brushes Alex Uses Most Alex owns many brushes but she reaches for a few favorites in almost every painting. Her go to Trekell tools are: #5/0 Golden Taklon Round for detail work, controlled edges and smaller shapes. #10 Golden Taklon Cat’s Tongue for versatile blending, soft edges and strokes that can be broad or precise. 1" Mop Brush for creating the smooth transitions and buttery finish she is known for. Together, these soft synthetic brushes give her the precision and control she needs from the first layer through the final blend. She treats them as her main oil painting brushes even though they are often labeled for acrylic or general use. There Is More Than One Way to Paint Alex is quick to point out that her choices are not a universal rule. Many oil painters love the character and texture that hog bristle brushes create and build their style around heavy paint and visible marks. Her preference reflects the kind of work she creates. The best brush is the one that supports your own painting style, not necessarily the one that is considered traditional. If you value smooth blends, thin opaque layers and controlled edges, softer synthetic brushes may be worth exploring. What You Can Take from Alex’s Approach If you find yourself fighting visible brushstrokes or struggling to get subtle blends with traditional oil brushes, Alex’s process suggests another option. Trying soft synthetic mop brushes and Golden Taklon brushes in your oil work can change how your paint sits on the surface and how easily you can control transitions. Experimenting with brush type, rather than only changing paint or medium, might be enough to give you the smoother, more buttery finish you are looking for.

How Stefani Rabideaux Paints on an Oval Floater Panel

Trekell Pro Team Artist Stefani Rabideaux shares her simple process for prepping and painting on an oval floater panel and why this surface works well for mixed media. Choosing a Panel for Mixed Media As a mixed media artist, Stefani needs a surface that can handle different materials without warping or breaking down. She prefers birch panels because they are smooth, durable and respond well to a variety of media once they are sealed and primed. In this project, she works on an oval shaped floater panel. The oval shape and the routed frame around the painting area give the piece a finished look, but the focus of her process is how to prepare and work on the wood itself. Step 1: Seal the Panel with Gesso Stefani starts by sealing the raw panel with gesso. Even though the wood comes pre sanded, sealing is an important first step, especially for mixed media work. It helps protect the wood and creates a ground that will accept different kinds of paint and drawing materials. She applies gesso over the entire surface, including the central oval and the surrounding frame area. After coating the panel, she lets it dry for about 24 hours. Allowing enough drying time helps prevent issues later when more layers are added. Step 2: Transfer the Concept Once the gesso is dry, Stefani transfers her concept onto the panel. The smooth birch surface makes it easy to draw directly or use transfer methods without fighting heavy texture. Working on a floater style panel means she can think about how the image will sit in the center and how the surrounding area will support the composition. The routed gap and frame act as a natural border that she can choose to emphasize or keep subtle. Working with Different Media on Wood With the drawing in place, Stefani begins painting and adding mixed media elements. Because the wood has been sealed and primed, she has the flexibility to use different materials on the same surface. Properly prepared birch panels can work with many media, including: Oil and acrylic paint Watercolor and gouache when an appropriate ground or paper is used Ink and enamel Pastel, pencil and charcoal Pyrography and other mark making techniques For Stefani, this flexibility is part of what makes panels a good choice. She can adjust her approach partway through a piece without needing to change surfaces. Thinking About Presentation While You Paint Because the panel has a built in frame shape, Stefani can consider presentation as part of the painting process rather than a separate step. The raised outer edge and gap around the image create a boundary that naturally sets off the central artwork. She can choose to keep this frame area minimal, add decorative elements or echo colors and shapes from the main image. Either way, the relationship between the painting and its border is something she can design as she works, not something that has to be solved later with a separate frame. Stefani’s Simple Panel Workflow Summarizing Stefani Rabideaux’s approach: Seal the birch panel with gesso and allow it to dry thoroughly. Transfer or sketch the concept onto the prepared surface. Build the artwork using mixed media, taking advantage of the smooth, rigid support. Use the panel’s shape and border to support the composition and final presentation. What Artists Can Take from This Process Stefani’s workflow shows how thinking about surface, preparation and presentation early can make the rest of the painting process easier. A well prepped panel gives room to experiment with different media, and a floater style design lets you consider framing decisions while you paint instead of after. If you enjoy working in mixed media or want to try painting on wood for the first time, following her sequence of sealing, drying, transferring and then building layers can help you get more predictable results while still leaving space for creative decisions along the way.

How to Paint an Expressive Watercolor Cherry Tree

One of the most exciting qualities of watercolor is its ability to create textures that feel spontaneous and full of life. Rather than painting every branch, blossom, or blade of grass individually, watercolor allows the medium itself to become part of the creative process. In this tutorial, Trekell Pro Team Artist Lauri Haario demonstrates how to paint an expressive cherry tree using just three brushes from the Trekell Protégé Series. Along the way, you will see how wet on wet painting, paint splattering, salt texture, lifting, and scratching highlights all work together to create a lively, atmospheric tree. While these techniques come together in a single cherry tree, they can be applied to countless other watercolor landscapes as well. Brushes Used Trekell Protégé 3/4" Flat Brush Trekell Protégé Size 8 Round Brush Trekell Protégé Size 2 Round Brush The Trekell Protégé Series offers excellent control, water retention, and versatility, making these brushes an excellent choice for everything from broad background washes to delicate finishing details. Step 1: Create the Background with a 3/4" Flat Lauri begins by using a Trekell Protégé 3/4" Flat Brush to paint the background wash. With broad strokes, he lays in color behind the tree, intentionally leaving a few areas of the paper white. These untouched white spots add brightness and variation, helping the final painting feel airy rather than overly dense. The flat brush makes it easy to cover the page quickly and keep the background loose and soft. Step 2: Paint Wet on Wet Foliage with a Size 8 Round While the background is still wet, Lauri switches to a Trekell Protégé Size 8 Round Brush to create the cherry tree’s foliage. Working wet on wet allows the new strokes to blend softly into the background, giving the canopy a natural, organic feel. By dabbing and rolling the round brush into the damp wash, he suggests clusters of blossoms and leaves without painting every detail. The round brush can create both larger, rounded marks and smaller touches depending on how much pressure is applied. Step 3: Add Texture with Splatters and Salt To bring more energy and texture to the foliage, Lauri adds splatters of paint. Light taps against the brush or handle create small spots of color that break up the larger shapes and add a sense of movement to the tree. Next, he sprinkles table salt over the wet paint. As the watercolor dries, the salt disrupts the pigment and water, leaving irregular patterns that feel organic and textured. Once everything is fully dry, the salt is gently wiped away, revealing subtle, crystalline marks within the canopy. Step 4: Paint the Trunk and Branches with a Size 2 Round After the salt has been removed and the foliage layer is dry, Lauri turns his attention to the structure of the tree. Using a Trekell Protégé Size 2 Round Brush, he paints the trunk with controlled, tapering strokes. The smaller round brush offers precision for narrow lines and fine branches. Lauri adds thinner branches between the foliage clusters, connecting them back to the trunk and helping the tree feel anchored and believable, even in a loose, expressive style. Step 5: Define the Ground and Shadows with the Size 8 Round Lauri then returns to the Trekell Protégé Size 8 Round Brush to paint the ground beneath the tree. With broader strokes, he lays in the base color and soft shadows that give the tree weight and place it firmly on the page. Using the same round brush for foliage and ground keeps the marks visually consistent. Shadows at the base of the trunk and under parts of the canopy suggest light direction and add depth to the scene. Step 6: Scratch Grass and Highlights To finish the painting, Lauri uses simple tools to add extra detail and contrast. With the sharpened end of the brush handle, he scratches into the paint to create lines that resemble blades of grass below the tree. Finally, he uses an X‑Acto knife to carefully scrape away small areas of paint, revealing lighter paper underneath and creating sharp highlights on the trunk or within the foliage. These scratched highlights add sparkle and texture without needing additional pigment. Final Thoughts Lauri Haario’s approach demonstrates that expressive watercolor paintings are often built through a combination of simple techniques rather than intricate detail. Wet on wet washes, splattering, salt textures, and scratching all allow water and pigment to create effects that feel lively and spontaneous. Whether you are painting cherry blossoms, forests, or other landscapes, these techniques can help you create watercolor paintings filled with depth, movement, and atmosphere. Combined with the versatility of Trekell Protégé Series brushes, you will have everything you need to experiment confidently and develop your own watercolor style.

How to Turn Trekell Gothic Panels into Custom Framed Painting Surfaces

A beautiful painting deserves a surface that is just as unique. Instead of adding a traditional frame after the artwork is complete, Trekell Pro Team Artist Mab Graves incorporates the frame into the creative process from the very beginning. In this tutorial, Mab shows how to transform a Trekell Gothic Floater Panel into a one of a kind framed painting surface using decorative trim, molding paste, and a few simple finishing techniques. The result is a custom Gothic panel that is ready to be painted, gilded, or finished in whatever style inspires you. Why Start with a Trekell Gothic Floater Panel? A quality foundation makes every project easier, and Trekell Gothic Floater Panels are ideal for creating custom framed artwork. Their cathedral-inspired silhouette already feels dramatic, and the built in float cap adds a natural architectural step around the painting area. The recessed floating edge naturally creates a clean separation between the painting and the decorative frame, giving the finished piece a polished, storybook appearance. Combined with Trekell’s unique Gothic shape, these panels offer endless possibilities for artists looking to create something truly original. Materials You’ll Need Trekell Gothic Floater Panel Decorative wood or resin trim and molding Sandable wood glue Clamps Molding paste Sandpaper Gesso Paint or gilding materials Step 1: Select Your Decorative Trim Mab begins by choosing decorative trim to build up the frame on her Gothic panel. In her video, she mentions purchasing molded trim from an Etsy shop, but there are plenty of options. Decorative molding can be found at woodworking suppliers, home improvement stores, antique shops, or even made from leftover trim you already have in your studio. Choose a profile that complements the Gothic silhouette and fits comfortably around the edges of your panel. You can keep it simple and classic or go ornate and highly detailed depending on the look you want. Step 2: Attach the Trim to Your Gothic Panel Apply a quality sandable wood glue to the back of each trim piece and carefully position it around the Trekell Gothic Floater Panel. Mab notes that she glues down any trim first and makes sure it is clamped for a secure bond. Once everything is aligned, clamp the trim securely while the glue dries. Taking the time to create a strong bond now will make the rest of the project much easier and ensures the decorative frame feels firmly integrated with the panel. Step 3: Refine the Frame After the glue has cured, inspect each corner and seam. Because Gothic Panels have curves and angles, you might need to do a little carving or sanding at this step so each joint fits together naturally and sits flush against the panel. These small adjustments create a cleaner finished frame once it has been primed and painted or gilded. Mab mentions that you may need to carve and sand at this stage to get everything looking just right. Step 4: Fill Seams and Gaps with Molding Paste Next, apply molding paste to fill any gaps or visible seams where the trim pieces meet the panel. Mab uses molding paste to smooth seam lines and unify all of the separate elements. You can also use molding paste creatively by piping additional decorative details directly onto the frame. This helps blend the trim together and creates a cohesive, finished appearance that feels like a single sculpted object rather than separate pieces. Step 5: Let Everything Dry Patience is one of the most important parts of the process. Mab notes that waiting for the piece to dry between each step is the hardest part. Allow the molding paste to dry completely before moving on. Depending on the thickness of the application, this usually takes about a day. Although waiting can be difficult, allowing each layer to fully cure helps produce a stronger and cleaner final result. Step 6: Prime the Entire Gothic Panel with Gesso Once the frame and molded details have completely dried, apply multiple coats of gesso over the entire surface of the Trekell Gothic Panel, including the trim and molding. Mab recommends at least four coats, sanding between each layer. Lightly sanding between coats removes imperfections and helps unify the texture. Multiple layers of gesso ensure the panel is properly sealed and ready for paint, gilding, or other decorative finishes. Step 7: Paint or Gild Your Custom Gothic Frame After the final coat of gesso has dried, your custom Gothic panel is ready for its finishing touches. Paint the frame to complement your artwork, apply metallic leaf for an elegant, cathedral-like finish, or experiment with glazes and patina effects to make the piece uniquely your own. The built in float cap on the Trekell Gothic Panel creates a crisp boundary between the central painting and the ornate frame, so both elements can shine. Why Artists Love Custom Framed Gothic Panels Creating your own framed panel allows the presentation to become part of the artwork itself. With Trekell Gothic Panels, the shape and floating architecture already set a mood before you even begin painting. Instead of searching for the perfect frame after the painting is complete, you can design one that matches your creative vision from the start. Starting with a Trekell Gothic Floater Panel makes the process easier by providing a sturdy foundation and a built in floating edge that naturally separates the artwork from the frame. Final Thoughts Mab Graves’ process shows that creating a custom framed painting panel does not require advanced woodworking skills or expensive specialty tools. With decorative trim, molding paste, patience, and a Trekell Gothic Floater Panel, you can build a one of a kind surface that becomes part of the artwork itself. Whether your style is whimsical, darkly romantic, or traditional, turning Trekell Gothic Panels into custom framed painting surfaces is a rewarding way to elevate both your artwork and its presentation before you ever pick up a paintbrush.

How to Use the Trekell Legion Long Filbert for Gouache, Oil, and Acrylic Landscapes with Justin Donaldson

Today, Trekell Pro Team Artist Justin Donaldson is painting mountains in Montana and sharing why the Trekell Legion Long Filbert has become one of his favorite brushes for working with thick, expressive gouache. Even though this demonstration uses gouache, the brush shape and handling translate beautifully to oil and acrylic as well. Classically, many artists reach for a flat brush when they want to carry a generous amount of paint and cover large areas quickly. Justin has found himself drawn to the Trekell Legion Long Filbert because it gives him that same bold application while creating softer, more natural edges in any of the three mediums. Why Choose a Legion Long Filbert Instead of a Flat Brush? A traditional flat brush is excellent for creating broad strokes and crisp edges, but those edges can sometimes feel too sharp or geometric for organic landscape forms. The slightly rounded edges of a filbert allow Justin to carry plenty of paint while creating a more natural edge quality. This makes it easier to soften transitions between brushstrokes without sacrificing the thick, chunky gouache look he wants. The same rounded profile also helps oil and acrylic strokes feel less rigid and more atmospheric. “A filbert has these slightly rounded edges that enable me to both carry a lot of paint, but at the same time allow me a much more natural edge quality.” Big, Thick Paint Without Harsh Edges One of the most appealing qualities of gouache, oil, and acrylic is the ability to create bold, opaque passages of color. Justin wants to preserve that thick, painterly appearance while still having control over the softness of his transitions. The Trekell Legion Long Filbert gives him both. The broad body of the brush can carry a generous amount of paint, making it useful for blocking in mountains, skies, fields, and other large areas of a landscape. The rounded tip keeps those shapes from feeling overly rigid and helps strokes sit more naturally in the scene. This allows Justin to create strong brushstrokes while still introducing softer transitions where the painting calls for them, whether the paint on his palette is gouache, oil, or acrylic. One Brush That Creates Many Effects Justin prefers brushes that let him stay focused on the painting instead of constantly stopping to switch tools. When he is not using a quill brush, he often reaches for a Trekell Legion Long Filbert because it can create a wide variety of marks. Using the broad face of the brush allows him to cover large areas quickly. Turning the brush creates narrower strokes. The rounded tip can be used for smaller accents and fine details. Adjusting pressure gives him control over both hard and soft edges. “I like really getting stuck into the groove of a painting and not having to change my paintbrush just to get different effects.” That versatility helps preserve the rhythm of the painting process. Instead of breaking concentration to search for a different brush, Justin can adjust the angle, pressure, or amount of paint and continue working. Staying in the Creative Flow Creative momentum matters. Once an artist settles into the rhythm of a painting, repeatedly changing brushes can interrupt that flow. Justin looks for tools that can move naturally between different stages of the painting without forcing him to stop. The Trekell Legion Long Filbert allows him to move from broad areas of color into smaller forms, refined edges, and controlled details with the same brush, regardless of medium. That means less time thinking about equipment and more time responding to the painting. How the Legion Long Filbert Creates Hard and Soft Edges Landscape painting often requires a balance between hard and soft edges. Hard edges can define a focal point, separate one form from another, or create contrast. Soft edges can suggest distance, atmosphere, changing light, or gradual transitions between natural forms. The shape of the Trekell Legion Long Filbert makes it possible to create both. Justin can use the side or tip of the brush for a more controlled, sharper edge. He can then reduce the pressure or use the rounded face to create a softer transition. This makes the brush especially useful for mountains, clouds, trees, hills, and other landscape elements that rarely have perfectly straight edges, whether painted in gouache, oil, or acrylic. Why the Trekell Legion Long Filbert Works for Gouache Trekell Legion Brushes are made with synthetic mongoose filament designed to offer a balance of softness, spring, and control. The filament has enough resistance to move thicker gouache while still allowing the brush to respond to changes in pressure. This gives artists control over the width, shape, and edge quality of each stroke. For gouache painters, the Legion Long Filbert can be used to: Carry generous amounts of thick, opaque paint Block in large areas of color Create bold, expressive brushstrokes Soften transitions between shapes Paint natural landscape forms like mountains and clouds Add smaller details using the rounded tip Create both hard and soft edges with one brush Using the Trekell Legion Long Filbert for Oil Landscapes Although Justin is working in gouache in this demonstration, the same qualities that make the Trekell Legion Long Filbert effective also translate well to oil painting. Oil landscape painters can use the brush to establish skies, mountains, fields, trees, clouds, and other major shapes. The synthetic mongoose filament has enough spring to move oil paint while offering a softer response than a firm hog bristle brush. The rounded filbert shape is useful when an artist wants a controlled edge that does not feel overly sharp. It can create broad strokes while naturally softening the ends and corners of each mark. With thinner oil paint, the Long Filbert can create smooth, flowing applications. With thicker paint, it can leave visible, expressive strokes that show the movement of the brush. Oil painters can also use the tip and corners for grasses, branches, reflections, and smaller accents without immediately reaching for another brush. Using the Trekell Legion Long Filbert for Acrylic Landscapes The Trekell Legion Long Filbert is also a versatile option for acrylic landscape painting. Acrylic dries quickly, so a brush that can perform several jobs can help an artist work more efficiently. The Long Filbert can move from blocking in broad areas to adding texture and smaller details without requiring frequent brush changes. With heavier acrylic paint, the brush can create bold, textured strokes. With fluid or thinned acrylic, it can produce longer, smoother marks and softer transitions. Acrylic painters can use it for: Blocking in skies and landforms Creating clouds and distant mountains Building foliage and tree shapes Painting fields and grasses Adding expressive texture Creating highlights and smaller accents One Brush Shape for Gouache, Oil, and Acrylic Gouache, oil, and acrylic each behave differently, but landscape painters working in all three mediums need many of the same things from their brushes. They need coverage, control, edge variety, and the ability to create both large shapes and small details. The Trekell Legion Long Filbert can adapt to each medium through changes in pressure, angle, paint consistency, and brush size. With gouache, it can carry thick, opaque paint while preserving a softer, natural edge. With oil, it can move heavier color, shape forms, and create expressive transitions. With acrylic, it can help artists work quickly while moving between broad coverage and refined texture. Tips for Painting with a Trekell Legion Long Filbert Use the broad face of the brush for large areas of color. Rotate the brush to create narrower strokes. Use the rounded tip for small accents and details. Adjust pressure to change the width and character of the stroke. Use lighter pressure when creating softer edges. Experiment with different paint consistencies in gouache, oil, or acrylic. Allow some brushstrokes to remain visible instead of blending everything smooth. Practice moving from broad strokes to fine marks without changing brushes. Final Thoughts Justin Donaldson’s demonstration shows that the best brush is not always the tool that is most traditionally associated with a technique. While a flat brush may be the classic choice for carrying thick paint, the Trekell Legion Long Filbert gives Justin the coverage he needs with the softer, more organic edge quality he prefers for landscape painting. It also allows him to stay in the flow of the painting by moving between large spaces, fine details, hard edges, and soft edges without constantly switching brushes. Whether you paint landscapes in gouache, oil, or acrylic, the Trekell Legion Long Filbert offers the versatility to create bold marks, natural transitions, and expressive details from the beginning of the painting through the final brushstroke.

Different Ways I Use My Trekell Golden Taklon Flat Brush with Stefani Rabideaux

A flat brush might look simple, but it can do a lot more than just block in shapes. With the right angle and pressure, one Golden Taklon flat brush can handle clean edges, soft shading, fine lines, and delicate details. In this post, Trekell Pro Team Artist Stefani Rabideaux walks through how she uses a single Golden Taklon flat brush to create one of her detailed illustrations from start to finish. You will see how the same brush changes roles just by how she holds it and how much paint she uses. Stefani’s artwork: one brush, many jobs The piece below was painted using a Golden Taklon flat brush for most of the work. Notice the clean edges, soft gradients, and hair details that all came from the same brush. Instead of constantly changing brushes, Stefani leans on positioning, pressure, and paint load to get different kinds of strokes from the same flat. How Stefani uses the flat brush for clean edges One of Stefani’s favorite ways to use a flat brush is for crisp, clean edges. The squared tip lets her “cut in” sharp shapes against dark or light backgrounds. Here, she uses the broad side of the Golden Taklon flat along the edge of the figure to paint the dark background. By keeping the brush steady and working right up to the drawing, she gets a sharp separation between the character and the surrounding color. To try Stefani’s approach: Load the flat brush with enough paint for a solid, opaque stroke. Line up the flat edge with the edge you are painting. Pull the brush in smooth, confident strokes instead of short, sketchy ones. Same brush, different volume and shading Stefani also uses the same flat brush to switch between light, loose coverage and richer, more focused strokes. It all comes down to pressure and paint load. In this stage of the piece, she uses the brush two different ways: Light and loose strokes for soft shading on the figure and in the hair. Richer, more focused strokes for deeper shadows and defining the waves of the hair. With light pressure and more water or medium, the brush lays down transparent layers. With firmer pressure and more pigment, it carves in stronger shapes and darker values. Stefani moves between those two modes constantly to build depth. Turning the flat for thin, precise strokes Stefani does not always reach for a liner when she needs a thin stroke. Often, she simply turns her flat brush on its edge. Here, she rotates the Golden Taklon flat so she is painting with the narrow side, not the full width. That lets her place thin, precise marks on small details like fingertips and nails while still using the same brush she used for larger areas. If you want to copy this technique: Load just the tip and edge of the brush with paint. Turn the brush so the edge is what touches the paper or panel. Use a light touch and let the edge glide along your line. Lightly layering reflections and small details Once the main shapes and shadows are in, Stefani goes back in with very light, controlled strokes to add reflections and extra movement. For the hair reflections in the water, she uses the flat brush with very little paint and gentle pressure. Short, light strokes suggest movement and shine without overpowering the drawing or flattening the subtle pencil work underneath. Think of this step as whispering with the brush instead of speaking loudly. You are nudging the values and shapes, not repainting them. Why Stefani likes Golden Taklon flats for this kind of work Golden Taklon is a smooth, synthetic filament that holds a clean edge, keeps a good point at the corners, and releases paint evenly. For Stefani’s illustration‑heavy style, that means: Crisp edges when she uses the full flat for blocking in. Soft, even layers when she lightens pressure for shading. Consistent thin lines when she turns the brush on its edge. In this piece, she shows how one Golden Taklon flat can handle clean fills, gradients, tiny details, and subtle reflections. It is a minimal setup that still gives her a lot of control. Try Stefani’s flat‑brush approach in your own work If you want to experiment with using a single flat brush the way Stefani does, try this in your next piece: Use the broad side of the flat for background fills and clean edges. Use lighter pressure and more medium for soft shading and gradients. Turn the brush on its edge for thin, precise strokes and small accents. Finish with very light strokes to add reflections and highlights. Instead of switching brushes every few minutes, challenge yourself to see how many jobs one Golden Taklon flat can handle. Stefani’s process is a great example of how far a single brush can go when you learn its full range. To see the Golden Taklon flat brushes Stefani uses and find a size that fits your work, you can explore our Golden Taklon flats here: Golden Taklon Flat Brushes

How to Paint a Cupcake on a Trekell Round Floater Panel

Cupcakes and paint are a pretty perfect combo. One feeds your soul, the other feeds your sweet tooth. In this tutorial, Trekell Pro Team Artist Sandra Sanchez shows you how to paint a small framed cupcake study on a Trekell 6" Round Floater Panel using Trekell Opal and Crimson Taklon brushes. This project works with oils, acrylics, gouache, and watercolor. You simply prep your Trekell panel to match the medium you love, then follow Sandra’s steps to build a delicious cupcake from sketch to final highlights. Trekell Supplies You’ll Need Trekell 6" Round Floater Panel Trekell Opal Flat brushes Trekell Opal Round brushes Trekell Crimson Taklon Small Round brushes Additional Trekell Crimson Taklon detail brushes (optional for very fine details) Your preferred paint: oils, acrylics, gouache, or watercolor A cupcake reference that you can enjoy eating at the end How to Prep Your Trekell Panel for Different Mediums Before you start painting, make sure your Trekell Round Floater Panel is prepped for the specific medium you are using. Proper prep helps your paint adhere, balances absorbency, and gives your colors the best chance to shine. For oil paint Seal the wood if needed, then apply at least one layer of an oil‑compatible primer such as an oil‑primed or universal gesso. Let it dry fully before drawing or painting so the surface is even and ready for oils. For acrylic paint Apply acrylic gesso over the panel and let it dry. Use one or two coats depending on how smooth or absorbent you like your painting surface. Lightly sand between coats if you want a softer, more refined feel. For gouache Prep the panel much like you would for acrylic. Use acrylic gesso to create a slightly absorbent, matte ground. Avoid very slick surfaces so that gouache can grip and layer cleanly. For watercolor Either apply watercolor ground to the panel according to the manufacturer’s instructions, or securely adhere watercolor paper to the panel with an archival adhesive. Make sure edges are sealed flat so washes do not pool or lift unexpectedly. Once your Trekell panel is prepped for your chosen medium, you are ready to follow Sandra’s cupcake painting steps. Step One: Prep Your Trekell Round Floater Panel and Draw Great dessert paintings start with a properly prepared surface. Sandra uses a Trekell 6" Round Floater Panel, which creates a built‑in frame that feels perfect for small, collectible studies. When the surface is ready for your medium, lightly sketch your cupcake directly on the panel. Focus on the overall shape of the cake, the wrapper, and the swirl of frosting on top. Keep the drawing simple and clear so your paint can do the rest of the work. Having a real cupcake or a clear photo reference nearby helps you place highlights, shadows, and the tilt of the wrapper so your drawing sets up a convincing final painting. Step Two: Create Your First Paint Layer Next, Sandra builds a foundation layer of paint on the cupcake and background. Using Trekell Opal Flat and Opal Round brushes, apply a thin, controlled layer of your chosen medium across the panel. In this stage, think about value and big shapes rather than details. Place your darkest values in the background and deep shadows. Block in the mid tones of the cake and wrapper. Keep the frosting lighter so it already begins to stand out as the focal point. This first layer on the Trekell panel acts as your roadmap. No matter which paint you use, it helps you judge value and color relationships before you commit to more opaque, detailed strokes. Step Three: Build Cupcake Details with Trekell Crimson Taklon Brushes When the first layer is dry or stable enough to work over, Sandra moves into detail work. She reaches for Trekell Crimson Taklon Small Round brushes to refine the cupcake. Now focus on volume and texture. Use slightly warmer, darker colors in the folds of the wrapper to create depth. Add lighter strokes where the cake catches the light at the top edges and ridges. Shape the frosting by following its natural spiral with confident curved strokes and pay attention to where the light hits the ridges of the icing. Crimson Taklon brushes give you crisp edges and excellent control on the Trekell panel surface. This is the stage where the cupcake begins to look truly edible. Step Four: Paint the Floater Frame and Add Finishing Touches With the cupcake established, Sandra turns her attention to the frame and final details. Using Trekell Opal Flat brushes for the frame and Crimson Taklon brushes for small refinements, she brings the 6" Round Floater Panel to life as a finished object. Choose frame colors that complement your cupcake. You might keep it neutral and classic or choose a rich warm tone that echoes the dessert. As you work, sharpen important edges that you want the viewer to notice. Soften less critical areas so the eye naturally goes to the frosting. Add tiny highlights where the icing and wrapper catch the light to give a fresh, glossy feel. At this point, you have a complete cupcake painting that feels like a tiny framed treasure right on your Trekell Round Floater Panel. Enjoy Your Cupcake and Your Trekell Panel Once you have finished painting and cleaned your Trekell brushes, reward yourself by eating the cupcake you used as reference. It is a small celebration of the time you invested in your art and a reminder that painting can stay playful and enjoyable. Studies like this are perfect for practicing brush control, values, edges, and texture without committing to a huge piece. The combination of Trekell Round Floater Panels and Trekell Opal and Crimson Taklon brushes gives you a professional surface and tools that make every stroke more confident. Try Your Own Dessert Study on Trekell Panels Cupcakes are just one option. You can use the same approach to paint donuts, slices of cake, fruit tarts, or even scoops of ice cream. The key is choosing a Trekell panel, prepping it carefully for the paint you want to use, and reaching for brushes that give you both soft blends and precise details. If you try Sandra Sanchez’s cupcake tutorial on a Trekell Round Floater Panel, share your results and tag Trekell so we can see your dessert paintings. We love seeing how artists use Trekell panels and brushes to turn everyday treats into tiny works of art.

How to Use Script/Rigger Brushes for Confident Line Work

Script/rigger brushes look delicate, but they are some of the most powerful tools you can add to your studio. They are built for long, continuous lines, fine details, and expressive marks that other shapes struggle to make. In this post, we will break down what script/rigger brushes are, what makes them different from regular rounds, how Trekell’s different synthetic lines feel in this shape, and practical ways to use them in your own work. We will also share how Trekell Pro Team artist Stefani Rabideaux uses her script/rigger brushes, with a video you can watch right inside this page. What is a script/rigger brush? You will hear artists say “script brush” or “rigger brush” for the same basic shape, which is why we call them script/rigger brushes. A script/rigger brush is a long, slender round with bristles that come to a fine point. The hair length is noticeably longer than a standard round of the same size, and that extra length is what gives you those elegant, flowing lines. Script/rigger brushes are designed to: Hold more fluid paint than a tiny spotter or short round. Pull long, uninterrupted lines without constantly reloading. Create smooth curves and tapered strokes with very light pressure changes. Historically, riggers were used for painting the rigging on ships in maritime paintings, which is where the name comes from. Today, artists use script/rigger brushes for everything from eyelashes and hair to lettering, vines, whiskers, and decorative details. Why Trekell’s script/rigger brushes feel different All of Trekell’s script/rigger brushes share the same basic shape: long, slender hairs that come to a fine point for smooth, flowing lines. The main difference is the filament and handle, which change how the brush feels in your hand and how it responds on the surface. We offer script/rigger brushes in several synthetic lines, each with its own personality: Golden Taklon – A versatile, medium-firm synthetic that keeps a sharp point and works across acrylic, watercolor, oil, gouache, ink, and more. It offers a good balance of snap and softness, making it a great all-around choice for clean, controlled line work. Crimson Taklon – A stiffer synthetic with more snap than Golden Taklon. It is designed for artists who like a firmer feel, especially when working with heavier body acrylics and oils, while still performing well in other media. Spectrum – A soft, natural-hair-like synthetic that mimics the look and feel of deluxe sable-type brushes while keeping the durability of synthetic bristles. Spectrum script/riggers are ideal if you want a smoother, silkier touch with high snap and shape retention. Sienna Synthetic Red Sable – A synthetic red sable line engineered to mimic natural sable with excellent snap, shape retention, and a refined feel. Sienna script/riggers are a strong choice if you want that “fine art” red sable vibe in an all-media, vegan-friendly brush that works for oil, acrylic, gouache, watercolor, and ink. Protégé – A watercolor-focused synthetic line that holds a generous amount of water and pigment while still coming back to a fine point. Protégé script/riggers are a solid option for watercolor and fluid ink work where flow and softness matter most. All of these lines are synthetic and vegan-friendly, so you can choose based on feel and medium rather than worrying about natural hair care or sourcing. Which script/rigger line should you choose? If you are not sure where to start, here is a simple way to think about it: If you want one script/rigger that can do a bit of everything, start with Golden Taklon. It is a balanced, reliable choice for most media and styles. If you work thick and love firm, snappy lines in oil or acrylic, try Crimson Taklon. The extra stiffness helps the brush spring back quickly and control heavier paint. If you want a softer, natural-hair-like feel with high snap, choose Spectrum. It is ideal when you want the precision of a detail brush with a smoother, more luxurious touch. If you want a red-sable-style detail brush without natural hair, reach for Sienna Synthetic Red Sable. It gives you that classic sable feel in a synthetic brush that works across oil, acrylic, gouache, watercolor, and ink. If you are mainly a watercolor or fluid media artist, Protégé script/riggers are designed to hold more liquid and release it smoothly, making long, continuous lines easier. You can always mix and match. Many artists keep one firmer script/rigger for heavier paint and one softer, more flowing option for watercolor, ink, or very delicate details. How to load a script/rigger brush for clean lines Script/rigger brushes perform best when your paint is at the right consistency. Too thick, and the brush will drag or skip. Too thin, and the line can lose opacity or start to bead up. To get the best performance: Thin your paint slightly with water or medium until it feels like ink or heavy cream, depending on your medium. Swirl the tip of the script/rigger brush in the paint, then gently roll it on your palette to bring it back to a point. Test a few lines on a scrap surface. You should be able to pull a smooth, continuous line without pressing hard. If the brush is leaving broken, dry lines, your paint is probably too thick or you do not have enough loaded into the bristles. If the line is flooding or hard to control, your paint may be too thin. Basic techniques to try with a script/rigger brush Once your brush is loaded, small changes in pressure and speed will give you a surprising variety of marks. Even lines – Hold the brush at a slight angle and maintain steady pressure as you pull, keeping your wrist relaxed. This is great for outlines, lettering, and structural lines. Tapered strokes – Start with a bit more pressure and gradually lighten as you pull away to create a line that fades from thick to thin. Perfect for hair, whiskers, lashes, and vines. Curves and flourishes – Use your whole arm instead of just your wrist for longer, sweeping curves. The long hairs help your line stay smooth even over small bumps in the surface. Broken, textural lines – On a slightly drier surface, move more quickly or lift gently as you go to create textured calligraphic marks. It can help to practice these on a test panel or scrap first, just to get a feel for how far a single load of paint will carry and how pressure changes the line. How Stefani Rabideaux uses script/rigger brushes Trekell Pro Team artist Stefani Rabideaux uses script/rigger brushes for precise, expressive details in her work. In the video below, she demonstrates how she loads the brush, the way she holds it for control, and the kinds of lines and accents she likes to create. Pay attention to how she: Adjusts paint consistency so the brush glides instead of skipping. Uses pressure changes to shift from hair‑thin lines to slightly bolder strokes. Works with the length of the bristles instead of fighting them, letting the brush do some of the work. Watching her process can give you a clearer sense of what “good” flow looks like before you try it yourself. [insert Stefani Rabideaux script/rigger brush video embed here] Practical ways to use script/rigger brushes in your own paintings Once you get comfortable with the feel of a script/rigger brush, it quickly becomes a go‑to tool for specific jobs that other brushes do not handle as well. Hair and fur – Use long, tapered strokes to build strands of hair, fur edges, or whiskers over an existing base layer. Eyelashes, brows, and fine facial details – Light, controlled lines can suggest lashes and tiny hairs without overpowering the rest of the painting. Branches, vines, and stems – Script/rigger brushes are perfect for delicate plant forms and climbing lines that need to feel alive and continuous. Lettering and decorative line work – For hand‑lettered titles, halos, borders, or pattern details, a script/rigger brush behaves like a flexible pen. Highlights and finishing touches – Use the very tip with a lighter color to place small sparkles, edge highlights, and final accents. You do not have to use your script/rigger brush everywhere. Think of it as your “finishing details” tool that you reach for in the later stages of a piece. Care tips to keep script/rigger brushes in good shape Because script/rigger brushes have long, fine hairs, a few simple care habits will help them last much longer: Clean them thoroughly after each session, especially near the ferrule, so dried paint does not stiffen the base of the hairs. Reshape the tip gently while the brush is still damp. Dry them flat or with the bristles pointing down, rather than upright in a jar. Avoid scrubbing or heavy pressure on rough surfaces with your script/rigger brush. Save it for line work and detail and use stiffer brushes for scrubbing or dry brushing. A well‑cared‑for script/rigger brush will hold its point and spring much longer, which is exactly what you want for clean, confident line work. Adding a script/rigger brush to your minimal set If you already have a minimal set of rounds and flats, adding a script/rigger brush is one of the easiest ways to expand what you can do without buying a large collection. With just one or two script/rigger brushes in sizes that match the scale of your work, you can handle: Loose, gestural painting with your existing rounds, filberts, and brights. Clean structure and blocks of color with your flats. Fine, expressive lines and finishing details with your script/rigger brush. It is a small addition that can make your brush kit feel much more complete, especially if you love detail work, illustration, character art, or decorative finishes. To see the different script/rigger options in Golden Taklon, Crimson Taklon, Spectrum, Sienna Synthetic Red Sable, and Protégé, you can explore our script/rigger brushes here: SCRIPT BRUSHES HERE.

How to Draw on a Trekell Wood Panel (Using Golden Drawing Ground)

If you usually draw on paper, a wood panel can feel intimidating. Will charcoal even stick? Will the surface be too smooth or too slick? The good news is that you can keep the control you love from paper and still get the strength and presentation of a Trekell Baltic birch panel. In this guide, Trekell Pro Team Artist Kate Zambrano shows one way to do it: by adding a drawing ground to a Trekell panel so charcoal has tooth to grab onto. The process is simple, and you can follow along using only visuals and step‑by‑step photos. Why draw on a wood panel? Wood panels offer a few advantages over loose paper or sketchbooks: A rigid, stable surface that will not buckle or warp. A ready‑to‑hang support that makes framing and display easier. Unique shapes and edges that you cannot get from standard paper sizes. By adding a drawing ground, you can keep the feel of a drawing surface while gaining all the benefits of working on a Trekell Baltic birch panel. What you will need To follow the method shown in Kate’s video, you will need: A Trekell Baltic birch panel. Golden Artist Colors Drawing Ground. A brush for applying the ground. Your usual charcoal. Trekell hog bristle brushes for blending and softening charcoal. A clean, flat workspace where the panel can dry. Step 1: Start with a clean Trekell panel Begin with a raw Trekell Baltic birch panel. Make sure the surface is dry and free of dust. If there are any visible particles, gently wipe the panel with a clean, dry cloth. You want a smooth, dust‑free surface before applying anything. Step 2: Apply a thin, even layer of Drawing Ground Next, brush Golden Drawing Ground onto the surface of the panel. This creates a thin, matte layer with tooth so charcoal behaves more like it does on a good drawing paper. As you apply it: Use smooth, overlapping strokes with your brush. Cover the entire face of the panel all the way to the edges. Aim for an even layer without puddles or thick ridges. From the side, you should see a subtle, uniform sheen while it is wet. When it dries, it will turn into a matte surface with fine tooth. Step 3: Let the surface dry completely Set the panel on a flat, dust‑free surface and let the Drawing Ground dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This step is important. If you start drawing while the ground is still soft, you can damage the surface or clog your charcoal. Once dry, the panel should feel smooth but slightly “grippy” to the touch, similar to a fine‑toothed paper. Step 4: Make your first marks When the ground is fully dry, you are ready to draw. In the video, Kate begins with soft charcoal lines to test how the surface responds. You will notice: Charcoal catches the surface more easily than on raw wood. Lines stay where you put them instead of sliding around. Light pressure gives you faint, controllable marks you can build on. This is where drawing on a panel starts to feel familiar if you come from paper. Step 5: Build up shading and detail From there, work as you normally would on paper. Kate gradually builds up her pet portrait using layers of charcoal, blending, and refining shapes. On the grounded panel, you can: Lay in light midtones and dark values without the charcoal sliding. Blend and adjust while still keeping control. Erase or lift gently to adjust shapes, just as you would on a good drawing sheet. For blending, Kate reaches for her Trekell hog bristle brushes. The stiffer bristles let her push and soften the charcoal without over‑smoothing the texture of the drawing ground, so she can keep subtle transitions while still seeing her marks. She uses them with a light touch, almost like a dry brush, to soften edges, unify tones, and create smoother gradients where needed. Step 6: Finish and admire the result Once the drawing is complete, you have a finished charcoal piece on a Trekell panel, ready for sealing (if you choose to fix it) and display. The drawing ground gives the surface a paper‑like behavior, while the panel gives it weight, presence, and durability. Why this method is great if you usually draw on paper If you have always worked on paper and are curious about wood, this approach is a gentle way to transition: You keep the feel of a drawing surface made for charcoal. You gain the stability and presentation of a Trekell Baltic birch panel. You can experiment with new panel shapes and sizes without changing your drawing tools. You do not need to change your entire process. One extra step—adding Drawing Ground—turns your panel into something your charcoal already understands, and blending with hog bristle brushes helps you refine it just the way you like. Try drawing on Trekell panels with your own style To try this yourself, start with: A Trekell Baltic birch panel. Golden Artist Colors Drawing Ground. Your favorite charcoal. Trekell hog bristle brushes for blending. Apply a thin, even layer of Drawing Ground, let it dry, and then draw the way you normally do. Use Kate Zambrano’s example as inspiration, but let your own style take over once the surface is ready. When you are ready to explore, you can find Trekell Baltic birch panels in a range of sizes and shapes here: Trekell Panels!, Golden Drawing Ground here: Drawing Ground!, and Trekell hog bristle brushes here: Hog Bristle!.

How to Mount Watercolor Paper on a Trekell Baltic Birch Panel

If you love working on watercolor paper but also love the look and stability of Trekell’s Baltic birch panels, you do not have to choose between them. You can combine both by mounting your favorite paper onto a panel and turning it into a ready‑to‑hang, frame‑friendly surface. Trekell Pro Team Artist Mallory Hart uses this approach to get the best of both worlds: the familiar feel of watercolor paper and the strength and cool shapes of Trekell panels. Here is how you can do the same thing step by step. Why mount watercolor paper to a panel? Watercolor and drawing papers are beautiful to work on, but they can buckle, wrinkle, or feel fragile, especially at larger sizes. Mounting paper onto a panel solves several problems at once. You get a rigid, stable surface that will not warp or buckle when wet. Your finished piece is already on a panel, ready for framing or hanging. You can use unique panel shapes (like shields and icons) while still painting on the paper you trust. If you already like Trekell’s Baltic birch panels for acrylics and oils, this method lets you bring watercolor, ink, colored pencil, and mixed media into the mix without giving up that solid support. What you will need Here is the basic setup Mallory uses when mounting watercolor paper to a Trekell panel: A Trekell Baltic birch panel in your chosen size and shape. Your watercolor paper of choice, cut slightly larger than the panel (you can trim flush after mounting). Golden Gel Matte Medium as the adhesive. A brush for spreading the gel medium. Clean pencils or similar smooth round objects to help roll out bubbles and press the paper down. Something to add weight (books, extra panels, or a flat board with weights) while the piece dries. A sharp razor knife or craft knife and a straight edge for trimming excess paper once everything is dry. Before you begin, make sure your hands, tools, and work surface are clean to avoid transferring dust or oils onto the paper or panel. Step 1: Prepare the panel and paper Start with a clean, dry Trekell Baltic birch panel. If the surface has dust or loose fibers, lightly wipe it with a clean, dry cloth. If needed, you can very lightly sand and wipe off the dust, but avoid leaving any residue on the surface. Cut your watercolor paper so it is slightly larger than the panel on all sides. This gives you a bit of extra margin in case the paper shifts during mounting. You can trim it flush with the panel once everything is fully dry. Lay both the panel and the paper flat in front of you so you can move quickly once the gel medium is applied. Step 2: Apply Golden Gel Matte Medium Using your brush, apply an even layer of Golden Gel Matte Medium onto the face of the panel. You want full coverage all the way to the edges, but not so thick that it pools or leaves ridges. Work the gel medium across the entire surface in smooth strokes. Make sure there are no dry spots or obvious thick blobs. Pay extra attention to the corners and edges so the paper will adhere well there. You want a consistent, wet layer that will stay workable long enough to position your paper, but not so heavy that it soaks through or creates lumps. Step 3: Lay down the watercolor paper With the gel still wet, carefully place your watercolor paper onto the panel. You can: Start by aligning one edge or corner and then gently roll the rest of the paper down. Or, hover the paper over the panel, line up your position, and lower it from the center outward. Take your time to avoid trapping large air pockets. Once the paper is down, do not pull it up and reset, as this can stretch or damage it. Instead, work from the center out to adjust and smooth. Step 4: Smooth out bubbles and secure the bond Using your hands first, gently press from the center of the paper outward toward the edges to start pushing out any trapped air and excess medium. Then, take your pencils (or other smooth round tools) and use them as a gentle roller: Place a pencil on the paper and roll it lightly from the center toward the edges. Repeat in different directions, overlapping your passes so you cover the entire surface. Be careful not to press so hard that you crease or scratch the paper. This step helps ensure even contact between the paper and the panel, reduces bubbles, and spreads the gel into a uniform layer underneath. Step 5: Add weight and let it dry Once the paper is smoothed and you are happy with the placement, it is time to let the adhesive do its work. Lay a clean sheet of paper or plastic over your watercolor paper to protect it. Place a flat board, additional panels, or books on top to add even weight. Make sure the weight covers the entire mounted area so the paper dries flat. Leave the panel under weight for the full drying time recommended for Golden Gel Matte Medium. This usually means overnight or longer, depending on your environment. Patience here pays off with a smooth, secure bond. Step 6: Trim and finish the edges When everything is completely dry, carefully remove the weights and protective sheet. Use your razor knife or craft knife and a straight edge to trim the excess watercolor paper flush with the edges of the panel. Work slowly and make several light passes rather than trying to cut through in one go. Support the panel as you work so you do not tear the paper or chip the edges. At this point, you have a clean, mounted watercolor surface on a Trekell Baltic birch panel, ready for painting, drawing, or further prep if you like. Now you can use Trekell panels for your paper work If you usually work only on loose watercolor paper or drawing pads, this method opens up a lot of new options. You can turn your favorite paper into a rigid, gallery-ready piece. You can take advantage of Trekell’s unique panel shapes while still working on paper. You can make framing and hanging easier, since the piece already has a solid backing. Whether you are painting in watercolor, working in ink, or drawing in colored pencil and mixed media, mounting your paper onto a Trekell panel lets you combine the surface you love with the structure you trust. To try this process yourself, you can grab: Your favorite Trekell Baltic birch panel in any shape you like. Golden Gel Matte Medium. Your preferred watercolor or drawing paper. A sharp razor knife or craft knife for clean trimming. Then follow Mallory’s steps above and turn your paper pieces into finished, ready‑to‑hang artworks that sit proudly on a Trekell panel.

Brush Care Habits That Actually Make a Difference

You can buy the best brushes in the world and still ruin them fast if your habits are working against you. The good news is that a few small changes in how you use and clean your brushes can dramatically extend their life. This guide focuses on real, everyday habits that matter the most for all Trekell brushes, from synthetics to natural hair. Think of it as the practical side of brush care that most people are never taught. Habit 1: Do a real end of session clean, not a quick rinse Most damage starts when brushes are put away with paint still hiding in the bristles. A quick swirl in water or solvent and a dab on a rag is not enough, especially near the ferrule where paint loves to collect. At the end of a painting session, take an extra couple of minutes to properly clean your brushes based on the medium you used and the Trekell cleaner made for it. For oils: use Trekell Linseed Oil Soap Wipe off as much paint as possible with a rag or paper towel. Clean the brush with Trekell Linseed Oil Soap, which is formulated to cleanse oil paint without harsh chemicals and extend brush life. Work the soap into the bristles, especially near the ferrule, then rinse and repeat until the lather runs clear. Reshape the tip and lay the brush flat or with the bristles pointing down to dry. For acrylics, gouache, watercolor, and other water based paints: use Trekell Coconut Oil Soap Rinse out most of the paint in clean water right away. Clean the brush with Trekell Coconut Oil Soap for Water Based Media, which uses gentle, natural coconut ingredients instead of harsh cleaners. Work the soap through the hairs, paying extra attention to the area near the ferrule, then rinse until the water runs clear. Reshape and let the brush dry flat or bristles down. The key is consistency. A small but thorough cleaning with the right Trekell soap after every painting session is much kinder to your brushes than an occasional intense scrub after paint has had time to dry inside them. Habit 2: Get the paint out of the ferrule The ferrule is where the bristles are crimped to the handle, and it is the number one place people accidentally destroy their brushes. If paint dries inside the ferrule, it forces the hairs apart and locks them into a splayed shape. Once that happens, there is usually no way to fully bring the brush back. You might be able to turn it into a texture brush, but it will not behave like it did when it was new. To prevent this, make it a habit to focus on the ferrule area every time you clean your brushes, while the paint is still wet. A ferrule cleaning maneuver from William Whitaker Artist William Whitaker shared a simple technique that helps pull wet paint out of the ferrule, and it works on both natural hair and synthetic brushes. Wet the brush and work in your Trekell brush soap so the lather reaches up toward the ferrule. With your non dominant hand, gently hold and support the bristles near the ferrule. With your other hand, hold the handle and move it back and forth from side to side, as if you are gently wagging the brush. This motion helps work the wet paint and soap mixture out from inside the ferrule and down toward the tip of the bristles, where you can rinse it away. You are essentially massaging the paint out instead of just hoping a quick swirl in water will reach it. Use this maneuver regularly with all of your brushes and you will greatly reduce the chance of paint drying up inside the ferrule and causing permanent splaying. Habit 3: Do not dry brush with soft synthetics Synthetic brushes are fantastic for smooth, controlled strokes, but they do not like being used completely dry on rough or semi rough surfaces. When you drag a soft synthetic across a surface without enough paint or medium acting as a lubricant, you create a lot of friction at the tips of the fibers. Over time, that friction and heat at the very ends of the filaments can cause them to curl, hook, or bend out of alignment, even if you never touch harsh solvents. Strong solvents can also damage synthetic fibers by softening or melting the plastic, but constant dry brushing with a soft synthetic will wear out the tips all on its own. If you want to dry brush or scumble, switch to a stiffer, more durable brush, such as a hog bristle or a brush you have already retired from precise work. Save your softer synthetic brushes for strokes that have at least a little paint or medium in them so there is always some lubrication between the bristles and the surface. A simple rule of thumb: Use stiffer brushes for dry brushing, scrubbing, and heavy texture. Use softer synthetic brushes when there is enough paint or medium on the brush to let it glide instead of scrape. Just changing this habit can dramatically cut down on curling and hooked tips in synthetic brushes. Habit 4: Use heat in a controlled way, not by accident Heat can be a tool or a problem, depending on how you use it. Very hot environments, like leaving brushes in a hot car or putting them in near boiling water without guidance, can soften synthetic fibers in a way that deforms them. That kind of uncontrolled heat is hard on brushes. However, controlled heat, such as a gentle simmering method specifically designed for synthetic restoration, can help synthetic bristles relax back toward their original shape when they start to flare or hook. The difference is temperature, depth, and time. When you are cleaning and restoring Trekell synthetic brushes: Follow a clear, step by step guide for the simmering process, including recommended temperature and how deep to submerge the bristles. Keep the ferrule and handle out of the hot water so you do not soften glue or damage the handle. Combine controlled heat with Trekell Brush Restorer when appropriate, so the fibers are encouraged to set back into a better shape as they cool. Think of heat as something to use intentionally, not accidentally. A controlled, brief simmer can help. Prolonged exposure to very hot conditions usually hurts. Habit 5: Watch how long brushes sit loaded Leaving a brush loaded with paint for “just a few minutes” often turns into much longer, especially with fast drying mediums like acrylic. For acrylics and gouache, if paint starts to dry in the bristles, it becomes harder to remove completely, especially near the ferrule. For oils, leaving thick paint packed near the ferrule between sessions encourages buildup that eventually causes splaying. Try to build this habit into your painting routine: If you are stepping away for more than a couple of minutes, either rinse the brush and set it aside clean, or fully load it and wrap the bristles in plastic or keep them in a stay wet environment. Do not leave brushes sitting upright in a water or solvent jar for long periods. That bends bristles, encourages paint and pigment to settle in the ferrule, and can swell or crack wooden handles over time. Short breaks are fine. Long breaks with loaded brushes are where the hidden damage happens. Habit 6: Park your brushes the right way while you work What you do with a brush while you are painting, not just when you are cleaning, also matters. Instead of leaving brushes standing in a rinse jar or tossed on the table: Keep a small towel or rag handy and lay brushes flat when they are not in your hand. If you use a brush holder, make sure the bristles are supported and not pressed into a hard edge. When you rinse, swish gently. Avoid grinding the tip into the bottom of the jar, which can bend or flare the hairs. These small physical habits keep the bristles in better alignment and prevent unnecessary bending or chipping of the tips. Habit 7: Use Trekell Brush Restorer on a schedule, not only in emergencies Trekell Brush Restorer is great for saving a brush that already looks rough, but it can also be used more lightly and regularly to keep brushes from reaching that point. Instead of waiting until a brush is completely flared or rock hard, try this: Choose a realistic interval, such as every few weeks or after a particularly heavy painting project. Give your most used brushes a gentle Restorer treatment according to the product directions, then rinse and reshape. Combine this with your normal cleaning using Trekell Linseed Oil Soap or Coconut Oil Soap so you are clearing out residue before it becomes permanent buildup. This is helpful for both synthetic and natural hair brushes that you reach for constantly. A light, regular reset keeps them behaving closer to how they did when they were new. Habit 8: Know when to retire a brush No brush lasts forever. Even with perfect habits, every tool has a lifespan. At some point, you will have brushes that: Will not hold a point, even after careful cleaning and reshaping. Have permanent splaying from dried paint in the ferrule. Have fibers that are worn, curled, or broken from years of honest use. Instead of fighting those brushes for precision work, give them a new job. Retire them into a “texture only” jar for scumbling, splattering, rough edges, or experimental marks. Then, bring new brushes into your main rotation so you always have tools that can do what you are asking of them. A few small changes, a big difference Brush care is not about perfection. It is about a handful of small, repeatable habits that work with your tools instead of against them. If you clean your brushes properly at the end of each session with Trekell Linseed Oil Soap or Coconut Oil Soap, clear paint out of the ferrule, avoid dry brushing with soft synthetics, use heat in a controlled way, and retire brushes at the right time, you will get much more life out of all of your Trekell brushes. For detailed step by step cleaning instructions, long term lifespan tips, and a full synthetic restoration guide, you can explore our other brush care blogs here: How to Clean and Care for Paint Brushes Why Do My Brushes Not Last a Lifetime? The Ultimate Guide to Extending the Lifespan of Your Trekell Brushes Reviving Your Trekell Synthetic Brushes: A Step by Step Guide

How to Prep Baltic Birch Panels for Different Painting Mediums

Baltic birch panels give you a strong, stable foundation for your artwork. To make the most of that wood and support your paintings over time, every panel needs one thing first, no matter what you plan to paint with. It needs to be sealed. Once the panel is sealed, you can customize the surface for oil, acrylic, gouache, watercolor, and mixed media with the right ground or primer. This guide walks you through that process step by step. Step 1: Seal the Baltic birch panel Raw wood is naturally absorbent and acidic. If you paint straight onto unsealed wood, it can pull oil and binder out of your paint, cause uneven absorption, and create long term stability issues. Sealing the panel creates a barrier that: Helps block acids and tannins from the wood. Controls how much paint and medium soak in. Provides a better base for whatever primer or ground you use next. At Trekell, we seal our Baltic birch panels with Golden GAC 100. It is a versatile acrylic polymer used to block support induced discoloration and to create a more stable, less absorbent surface underneath your primer or ground. There are many good sealing options on the market. If you already have a favorite clear sealer or isolation coat that is compatible with your medium and primer, you can use what works best for your process. The important thing is that the wood is sealed before you start priming. How to seal your panel Always follow the instructions for the specific sealer you choose. As a general guideline, you can treat Golden GAC 100 or a similar sealer this way: Lightly sand the panel surface and edges to remove any dust or raised fibers. Wipe away sanding dust with a clean, dry cloth. Apply a thin, even coat of sealer with a brush or suitable applicator, working it into the surface. Allow it to dry fully according to the product directions. If the grain has raised or the surface feels rough, lightly sand and wipe clean. Apply a second thin coat if you want extra insurance against absorption and discoloration. One coat of sealer is often enough for smaller works or when you plan to build up several layers of primer or ground on top. A second coat can be helpful if you want more control over absorbency, are working on larger panels, or simply prefer extra protection. Once the panel is sealed and dry, you have a more controlled, stable surface to build on. From here, the steps change depending on your painting medium. After sealing: choose your path by medium With a sealed Baltic birch panel, you are ready to decide how you want the surface to feel and how absorbent you want it to be. The next steps will be different for each medium and can be tailored using the primers and grounds we carry. Oil Ground pictured below: For Oil Painting Oil paint needs a ground that is compatible, protective, and not overly absorbent. After sealing your panel, you can choose from several options we offer for oil painters: Gamblin Oil Painting Ground for a traditional, bright white oil ground that lets your paint sit beautifully on the surface. Michael Harding Non-Absorbent Acrylic Primer for an acrylic primer that does not leech oil from your paints and keeps colors looking rich. Golden Gesso for an acrylic gesso ground that is suitable for oil painting when applied over a properly sealed panel. General application approach: Apply your chosen oil ground or primer in thin, even coats according to the manufacturer’s directions. Let each coat dry completely before adding the next. Lightly sand between coats if you want a smoother surface. Allow the final layer to cure fully before painting. The choice comes down to how absorbent or slick you like your oil painting surface to be. An oil ground will feel a bit different from a non-absorbent acrylic primer, even though both are designed with oil painters in mind. For Acrylic Painting Acrylics are more flexible and can tolerate a range of surfaces, but you still want a consistent, sealed panel and a reliable acrylic ground. After sealing, you can use: Golden Gesso for an opaque white, toothy ground that feels familiar to most acrylic painters. Golden Matte Medium as a translucent or clear gesso to let the wood or underlying layers show through while still providing tooth for acrylic paint. General application approach: Apply Golden Gesso or Golden Matte Medium in thin layers with a brush or roller. Let each layer dry completely before adding another. Sand between coats if you prefer a smoother, less textured surface. Use Golden Gesso when you want a more traditional, opaque ground. Use Golden Matte Medium when you want to keep the look of the wood, line work, or underpainting visible under your acrylic layers. For Gouache and Mixed Media Gouache and mixed media often do well on a slightly more absorbent, matte surface that still has the sealed wood underneath. After sealing the panel, many artists will: Use an acrylic gesso, such as Golden Gesso, to create a matte, toothy surface that accepts gouache and other water-based media. Keep the ground relatively thin so the surface does not become too slick for gouache’s rewettability. Because gouache can be used in many ways and every artist has different preferences, it is a good idea to test your favorite combination of sealer and ground on a small panel first to see how it feels for your particular approach. Golden’s pastel and drawing grounds are designed for dry media and drawing applications, but they can also play a role in mixed media work. They are best used when you want a textured, toothy surface for pastel, charcoal, pencil, or similar media over your sealed panel. If you are primarily painting with gouache, you will usually reach for gesso or a similar paint-focused ground first, and bring pastel or drawing grounds in where you specifically want that extra texture for dry marks. For Watercolor Watercolor is traditionally used on paper, but sealed Baltic birch panels can become a great base when you add the right layer on top. After sealing the panel, you have two main options: Daniel Smith Watercolor Ground to turn the sealed panel into a watercolor-friendly surface. It creates a texture similar to cold-press watercolor paper so you can paint directly on the panel. Mount your favorite watercolor paper onto the sealed panel using an appropriate adhesive, then paint on the paper as you normally would. As always, it is worth doing a small test first to see how your specific paints behave on Daniel Smith Watercolor Ground or on mounted paper over a sealed panel. Step 3: Test your surface before you commit Before you start a finished piece, it is worth doing a quick test on the prepared panel. Make a few strokes and washes with your chosen medium. Check how quickly paint is absorbed. See how easy it is to lift or adjust areas if your medium allows it. Notice whether edges stay crisp or soften more than you like. If the surface feels too absorbent, you can add another coat of ground or gesso. If it feels too slick, a light sanding or a different ground can increase tooth and control. A flexible system built on one foundation Every Trekell panel starts with the same Baltic birch foundation, but your prep choices are what make it perfect for oil, acrylic, gouache, watercolor, or mixed media. The simple formula is: Seal the wood. Choose the right ground or primer for your medium. Adjust texture and absorbency with multiple coats and sanding. Test the surface before you start a major piece. Once you have a sealing and priming routine you like, you will have panels that feel familiar and reliable every time you paint, no matter which medium you reach for. If you are ready to explore different shapes and sizes, you can see all of our Baltic birch panels here: Baltic Birch Panels, and you can find the grounds and primers mentioned above in our Grounds and Primers.

How to Choose the Right Brush for What You Actually Paint

Choosing brushes can feel overwhelming. You do not need a giant set to make great work, you just need a few well chosen tools that match your medium and your style. This guide walks you through what actually matters so you can stop guessing and start painting. Start with your medium Before you think about shapes and sizes, match your brush to the kind of paint you use most. The same paint can behave very differently depending on how thick or thin you use it, and that affects which bristles feel best in your hand. Oils Oil paint out of the tube is usually thicker and slower drying, which is why many artists like brushes with enough spring to move and sculpt that paint. When you are working with heavier paint, a slightly firmer brush helps you push color around without the hairs folding over on you. Try Trekell's Opal or Hog Bristle brushes for this. However, if you use a medium to thin your oils and you are chasing very smooth, almost brushless strokes, a softer brush can actually be the better choice. Softer synthetics glide over the surface and leave a more even mark, especially for glazing, blending, or finer work on top of dried layers. Trekell's Spectrum or Sienna brushes are great for this. The key is to match bristle feel to how you personally like to handle oil paint, not just to the label on the tube. Acrylics Acrylics dry fast and can be used in many ways, from thin layers to thick, textured passages. Versatile synthetic brushes shine here, because they can handle those shifts in consistency over a single painting session. If you love crisp edges and graphic shapes, you might prefer synthetics with a bit more spring, like Crimson Taklon. If you are working with thinner acrylic layers, a slightly softer synthetic can feel smoother and less scratchy on the surface, like Golden Taklon. Watercolor and inks Water media brushes need to hold a lot of liquid and release it smoothly. You are looking for a belly that can carry water and pigment, plus a point that snaps back when you lift pressure. A good watercolor round should be able to make a fine point, a mid size stroke, and a wider stroke with nothing more than a change in pressure. That is what makes it so versatile for lines, washes, and details. Check our our Protege brush line that offers everything you need. If you move between mediums, it is worth having separate main brushes for each so you are not fighting dried acrylic in a watercolor brush or scrubbing oil color with a delicate wash brush. Brush shapes explained simply Once your medium is clear, shape is what really changes the way your strokes look and feel. Here is the plain language version of the most useful shapes, including some specialty options Trekell artists love. Round A round brush tapers to a point with a full belly in the middle. It is great for drawing like lines, details, curves, and small shapes. Press harder for wider marks and lighten up for very fine lines. This is the shape most people cannot live without, no matter what they paint. Flat A flat has bristles cut straight across with a wide, flat profile. It is ideal for bold strokes, blocking in shapes, and filling larger areas. Turn it on its edge and it can still make sharp, narrow lines. If you like strong graphic shapes, a flat tends to feel natural very quickly. Bright A bright is similar to a flat, but with shorter bristles. Shorter hair means more control and less wobble when you are working with thicker paint. Many oil and acrylic painters like brights for punchy, square strokes and for layering paint on top of paint without losing control. Filbert A filbert is a flat with a rounded tip. It softens edges and is excellent for organic shapes like faces, petals, and clouds. Think of it as a middle ground between a flat and a round. You get the coverage of a flat with the softer edge of a round. Angle An angle brush has bristles cut at a slant. This shape excels at cutting in edges, reaching tight corners, and painting along curves. It is especially helpful for painting around shapes, working into corners of panels, and creating tapered strokes in one motion. Script / rigger A script or rigger brush is a long, very slender round with bristles that come to a fine point. It is designed for long, continuous lines. This shape is ideal for fine line work like branches, whiskers, eyelashes, lettering, and fluid, calligraphic strokes. Because the hairs are longer, it holds more paint than a tiny spotter, which helps you pull a line without stopping every inch. Liner A liner brush is similar to a script but usually a bit shorter in hair length. It still offers precision lines, but with slightly more control and less flex than a full length rigger. Use a liner when you want clean outlines, small decorative details, and tiny highlights. It is a key shape for detailed work in both fluid acrylics and inks. Cat’s tongue A cat’s tongue brush is a hybrid shape with a pointed tip and a broader base, often somewhere between a round and a filbert. This shape is very versatile. You can: Use the point for fine lines and detail Lay the belly down for broader strokes and fills Shift pressure to move smoothly from thin to thick in one stroke Many artists like cat’s tongue brushes for expressive, calligraphic marks, petals, leaves, and anywhere they want both control and flow in the same tool. Fan A fan has bristles spread out in a fan shape. Artists often use it for blending, softening edges, or creating effects like foliage, hair, or texture. This is more of a specialty effect brush than a first purchase, but it becomes useful once you know what kind of marks you love. You do not need every shape on day one. For most people, a mix of a round, a flat or bright, one softer edge brush like a filbert or cat’s tongue, and a liner or script for fine lines covers almost everything. How many brushes do you really need? Seeing huge brush racks can make it feel like you are under equipped, but a small, intentional set goes a long way. Trekell three piece minimal set If you want pure simplicity, you can start with a three piece minimal set and still get a lot done. Trekell offers a three piece minimal set that is built around this idea. You can view it here: 3 Pcs Brush Set. A simple three brush structure looks like this: One medium round or cat’s tongue for drawing, details, and general use One medium flat or bright for blocking in and edges One small liner or script for fine lines and signatures With just these three, you can sketch your composition, block in your major shapes, and add details and highlights at the end. Trekell five piece minimal set Once you know what you like, a few extras unlock more options. Trekell also offers a five piece minimal set that gives you added flexibility without overwhelming you with choices. You can view it here: 5pc Brush set. A five brush structure might look like this: Round, small, for fine details Round, medium, for general work Flat or bright, medium, for blocking in and edges Filbert or cat’s tongue, medium, for softer shapes and transitions Liner or script, small, for long lines and accents This gives you coverage, detail, and special strokes without needing a large number of brushes. An all media minimal set with Golden Taklon If you want one simple set that can handle oils, acrylics, and water based mediums, a short handle Golden Taklon line is a strong place to start. Golden Taklon is a soft synthetic that plays nicely across mediums and feels smooth on panels and paper. Even for oils, if you are using medium to thin your paint and aiming for smooth, controlled strokes, these softer synthetics work very well. They are not the stiff, bristle style brush that people associate with heavy impasto, but for many artists that softer feel is actually easier to handle. An all media minimal Golden Taklon set might include: Round, small Round, medium Flat, medium Filbert or cat’s tongue, medium Liner or script, small That handful of brushes can carry a painter through studies, finished pieces, and experiments in oil, acrylic, gouache, and watercolor, as long as they clean them properly between uses. You can adjust sizes to match your most common panel sizes. If most of your customers use smaller panels, lean a bit smaller in brush sizes so they do not feel clumsy or oversized. Match your brushes to how you like to paint Technique and personality matter just as much as medium. Two people can use the same paint and want completely different things from their brushes. If you like loose, expressive strokes Try slightly larger brushes than feels comfortable at first. They prevent you from overworking a painting with tiny marks. Flats, filberts, cat’s tongue shapes, and larger rounds with a bit of spring can help you cover areas quickly while still feeling responsive. If you like tight, detailed work Choose smaller rounds, liners, and script brushes that keep a sharp point. A good detail brush should feel a bit like a pen. A short handle Golden Taklon round or liner with a fine tip is often enough to handle most detail work when you are starting out. If you love soft blends and smooth transitions Softer synthetics and filberts, along with cat’s tongue shapes, will be your best friends here. On panels, a Golden Taklon filbert or cat’s tongue can help you achieve very smooth strokes without visible scratch marks. For oil, pairing thinned paint with a soft synthetic makes glazing and subtle blends much easier. If you want visible brush marks and texture Once you are ready to lean into texture, you can add some firmer brushes that leave more pronounced strokes. Brights and flats with more stiffness will help your marks stand out on the surface. You can keep your Golden Taklon set for smoother work and bring in a few firmer options just for those textured passages. Pay attention to what frustrates you. If your edges are always fuzzy, you may need a brush with more snap or a sharper point. If your strokes feel scratchy, you may be using a brush that is too firm for your surface or for how thin you like your paint. A simple next step If you want an easy starting point, explore Trekell’s three and five piece minimal sets and then build around them with a short handle Golden Taklon brush or two that fits your main medium and style. From there, you can add, remove, or swap shapes as you notice which brushes you reach for constantly and which ones stay clean in the jar. That way, every new brush you buy has a clear job in your painting process.

Meet the Filbert: The Most Versatile Brush in Your Toolkit

When it comes to brushes that can do it all, the filbert quietly earns its place as a studio staple. With a shape that balances precision and softness, it’s the go-to for many artists who want smooth edges, graceful curves, and ultimate control. But what exactly makes this brush so special? Let’s dive into the story, structure, and strengths of the filbert brush. What Is a Filbert Brush? The filbert brush features a flat ferrule and bristles that taper into a rounded, oval shape at the tip. It’s essentially a hybrid between a flat and a round brush, offering the best of both worlds: broad strokes with a soft edge and the ability to work in tight spaces without harsh lines. Its unique shape allows for both fluid blending and detailed work, depending on how it’s held. Use it flat for broader coverage or turn it on its edge for finer lines and more control. Why Is It Called a "Filbert"? The filbert brush gets its name from the filbert nut—more commonly known as the hazelnut. The rounded tip of the brush resembles the shape of the nut, and the name has roots in European tradition. Some sources trace it to Saint Philibert, whose feast day coincided with the ripening of hazelnuts, giving rise to the term "filbert nut." Over time, the name stuck, and artists have been calling this rounded brush a filbert ever since. What Makes the Filbert So Useful? Blending Power: Its soft, rounded edge creates seamless transitions between colors, especially useful in portrait work and backgrounds. Organic Shapes: Ideal for painting petals, leaves, and natural forms, the filbert mimics the curves found in nature. Dynamic Strokes: With a simple twist of the wrist, you can shift from thin lines to broader strokes, making it a favorite for expressive techniques. Edge Control: Unlike square-edged brushes, the filbert leaves no harsh lines, making it easier to soften edges without losing definition. Big vs. Small: Why Size Matters Small Filberts (Sizes 0–4): Best for detail work and great for facial features, fine lines, and tight spaces. Medium Filberts (Sizes 6–10): A solid middle ground. Ideal for most general-purpose painting needs. Large Filberts (Sizes 12 and up): Perfect for covering large areas, blending backgrounds, and creating bold, sweeping strokes. Many artists keep a few different sizes on hand, allowing them to transition fluidly from broad strokes to detail work without switching brush types. Choosing the Right Filbert for Your Medium Oil and Acrylic Artists: The filbert shines in both mediums thanks to its ability to blend without streaks. Synthetic and natural options both perform well, and Trekell offers both to match your preferences. Watercolorists: While not as common in watercolor, filberts can offer soft, petal-like shapes that are perfect for florals or textured washes. Trekell Filberts by Brush Line Golden Taklon: A vegan-friendly synthetic line that offers smooth, consistent strokes. Great for oil, acrylic, and watercolor. The filbert shape in this line is a versatile option for beginners and professionals alike. Hog Bristle: Made from natural bristles, this line is perfect for oil painters looking for stiffness and texture. The filbert in this line excels at bold, textured strokes and heavy paint application. Legion: This synthetic line is designed to mimic the feel of natural mongoose hair, offering durability, precision, and responsiveness. Excellent for acrylic and oil painters who like a firm yet flexible brush with great control. Opal: A synthetic line that replicates the characteristics of hog bristle. It offers a balance of stiffness and blendability, ideal for artists who want the traditional feel of hog hair with the benefits of synthetic. The filbert here is great for bold yet controlled brushwork. Crimson Taklon: A synthetic brush line that is slightly stiffer than Golden Taklon but just as smooth. Great for artists who want a bit more firmness while maintaining soft blending in acrylic and watercolor. Spectrum: Trekell’s smoothest synthetic brush line. Known for its ability to lay down paint without leaving visible brushstrokes, it’s perfect for artists who prioritize flawless finishes. The filbert in the Spectrum line is especially suited for soft blending and refined surfaces. MIDZ: Youthful and fun, MIDZ brushes are made with quality synthetic bristles and are ideal for emerging artists or those wanting a pop of color in their toolkit. The filbert shape here is approachable and easy to use. Onyx: A sleek, professional synthetic line designed to mimic natural squirrel hair. It’s soft with excellent fluid retention, perfect for delicate blending and smooth transitions. The filbert in this line gives great control over both detail and soft washes. Sienna: A refined synthetic line created to mimic red sable. It offers beautiful color-carrying capacity and a smooth stroke, making it ideal for both fine detail and soft transitions. The filbert in this line is perfect for artists who want sable-like performance in a vegan-friendly brush. Pro Tip from the Studio “I love using filberts to block in paintings. They make soft yet organic marks and have the width I need without the hard angles of a flat brush. They're perfect for laying in large areas of flesh tones or building up natural backgrounds in landscapes.” – Natalia Fabia Why Every Artist Needs a Filbert Whether you’re a seasoned painter or just getting started, the filbert deserves a spot in your brush roll. It adapts to your style, medium, and technique, bringing both control and softness in a single stroke. Trekell’s line of handcrafted filberts comes in a variety of sizes and bristle types, made for artists who know the power of the right tool. Ready to see what the filbert can do? Discover your next favorite brush in the Trekell collection.

How to Master Layering Techniques in Acrylic, Oil, and Watercolor

For many artists, their works are expressions of the deepest layers of emotion. Each piece tells a story, sometimes multiple stories. Each story is filled with complexity and development. Poetically layering is one of the most powerful ways to add depth, texture, and emotion to artwork. Together, let's explore different approaches to layering in acrylic, oil, and watercolor. Each medium has its own rhythm, rules, and possibilities that allow artists to convey their unique point of view. But to achieve the results you're after, you need to understand how to build your painting one layer at a time. This approach can transform your work from flat to luminous and layered. As well as best showing off your artistic technique and understanding of the development of your media. ACRYLIC: FAST, FLEXIBLE, AND FULL OF ENERGY In today's world, we're conditioned to complete tasks as quickly as possible. But the pace at which we work, both in daily life and in our creative practice, presents its own challenges, especially when you're trying to maintain clarity between each layer. Acrylics dry quickly, making them ideal for artists who love to work rapidly in bold, expressive layers. But this short drying time comes with its own unique set of layering rules. An acrylic painting can go from marvelous to muddy if we fail to let each layer dry and tell its part of the story. Let's discuss how to layer effectively when working with acrylic paints. Acrylic Layering Tips: 1. Start with a Toned Ground A warm or neutral ground sets the tone and helps unify your piece from the first stroke. You may have seen viral videos showing artists underpainting their entire canvas in shades of orange or red. This establishes a foundation for the painting and enhances contrast, value, and warmth, regardless of the final color palette. Trekell Suggests: Use Trekell wood panels as a durable, warp-free surface for layered acrylic work. 2. Thin to Thick Build from watery washes to thicker, textured strokes to maintain structure and avoid cracking. Although acrylic is flexible, it still needs time to cure properly. Creating a gradual transition from thin to thick helps maintain structural integrity between layers. 3. Let Each Layer Dry Fully If you haven't caught on yet, sometimes you need to sit and watch paint dry. Sure, with fast-drying acrylics, you can build layers quickly, but don't rush. A semi-wet layer can cause color lifting or muddy transitions. 4. Use Mediums for Control The addition of a matte or gloss medium can control texture, transparency, and sheen between layers. 5. Don’t Forget the Detail Often, the finer points of a story arise from the tiniest details, which together have a significant impact. Save crisp lines and highlights for the top layers. Trekell’s Golden Taklon series is a favorite for acrylic painters who want smooth, precise application. OIL: DISTINGUISHED, SLOW-DRYING, AND LAYER-FRIENDLY Oils are a beloved medium for many creators for their rich color and long open time. This makes them ideal for careful layering and blending; however, they also require more patience and planning—emphasis on the patience part. Key Oil Layering Tips: 1. Fat Over Lean Each new layer should contain more oil than the previous layer to prevent cracking. Start with lean (less oil, more solvent) underpaintings, and finish with oil-rich top layers. Your oil painting is on a high-fat diet, so embrace it. 2. Embrace Glazing Thin, transparent glazes can alter the temperature or value of a layer without obscuring it. Perfect for glowing skin tones, moody skies, or shadowy depths. Trekell Suggests: Try Sienna or Hog Bristle brushes, ideal for either smooth glazes or textured scumbles. 3. Give It Time With oil painting, you are playing the long game. This medium requires longer drying times, so be mindful of when you can safely add the next layer. Think of the time spent letting your medium dry as a part of a meditation or self-reflection practice. A period of time that will benefit both your work and your mind. 4. Blend and Push Oils allow subtle blending across layers. Use dry brushing or feathering for smooth transitions and texture. 5. Finish with Bold Accents Add crisp highlights, edges, or palette knife strokes to bring your piece to life. WATERCOLOR: LIGHT, LUXURIOUS, AND INTENTIONALLY TRANSPARENT The act of watercolor layering is often referred to as glazing. This is the gentle process of building color without burying light. Unlike acrylic or oil, watercolor is less forgiving of opaque mistakes. This behavior of the medium makes planning and working patiently essential. Watercolor's transparency is both its greatest strength and its biggest challenge. Each layer you add doesn't cover what's beneath; instead, it interacts with it. Key Watercolor Layering Tips: 1. Start Light and Work Dark You can't go back to white in watercolor, so preserve your lightest areas from the beginning, either with masking fluid or intentional blank space. The white of your paper becomes your brightest value, which means you're essentially painting in reverse, preserving highlights rather than adding them later. When thin, transparent washes are layered one over another, light penetrates each layer, reflects off the white paper beneath, and travels back through those veils of color. This creates a glow that simply can't be achieved by mixing colors directly on your palette. It's the difference between looking at a stained glass window and looking at a painted wall. 2. Let Each Layer Dry Completely Even a slightly damp base layer can lead to blooms, muddying, or canvas pilling or degeneration. If you can't wait, you can always use a hairdryer on low to speed up the drying process, but patience often yields the best results. 3. Glaze with Transparency Use thin, transparent washes to build value and create subtle color shifts. This is how you achieve depth and atmosphere without losing luminosity. Trekell Suggests: Our Onyx and Protege Plus watercolor brushes offer soft, consistent strokes with just the right amount of spring, perfect for controlled layering. 4. Avoid Overworking Too many layers can dull vibrancy and muddy your colors. Use glazing with restraint to maintain freshness. Sometimes, the most powerful watercolor paintings are those in which the artist knows when to stop. 5. Combine Wet-on-Wet and Wet-on-Dry Use wet-on-wet for soft backgrounds or atmospheric shadows, then layer sharper details over dry sections for clarity and definition. No matter what medium you choose, layering is a language that helps you tell your story while also telling its own. Whether you're glazing subtle tones in watercolor, building bold acrylic strokes, or weaving deep textures in oil, every layer is a chance to reveal more of your vision. Explore the full range of Trekell brushes and surfaces designed to support you—layer by layer—on your creative journey.

How to Travel with Art Supplies Without Damaging Them

Whether you’re heading to a workshop, a convention, or simply want to paint while on vacation, traveling with art supplies can feel like packing for a high-stakes mission. Brushes bend, panels dent, paints leak, and suddenly half your kit is compromised before you even arrive. But with a little preparation and the right tools, you can keep your supplies safe and ready for wherever inspiration strikes. Protecting Your Brushes Brushes are some of the easiest tools to damage in transit. Toss them in a bag, and you’ll arrive with bent bristles and broken handles. To keep them safe: Use a brush case or roll: A rigid case is best for flights, while a brush roll works well for short trips. Trekell’s brush wraps keep bristles flat and organized. Clean before you pack: Residual paint hardens during travel, making bristles brittle. Wash with brush soap first. Optional pro tip: If you don’t have a case, slide straws over brush heads to protect the bristles. Panels, Canvases, and Paper Rigid supports are ideal for travel because they resist bending, but they can still scratch or dent. Floater Panels travel well: They double as a built-in frame, which adds durability and makes them easier to pack than traditional stretched canvas. Stack and wrap: Place a sheet of glassine or parchment between panels to avoid scuffing. Stack face-to-face and secure with painter’s tape. Paper: Use a hard-backed sketchbook or travel-sized watercolor block to prevent creasing. Paints and Mediums The last thing you want is paint leaking in your luggage. Acrylics and oils: Tape around the lid seam or transfer into travel-size containers. Watercolors: Half-pan or travel palettes are lightweight and mess-free. Liquids and solvents: Follow TSA rules — 3.4 oz max for carry-on. Seal bottles in resealable plastic bags for extra protection. Tools and Accessories Palettes: Disposable paper palettes are perfect for travel; no cleanup required. Easels: Compact or collapsible easels are designed with plein-air painters in mind. Miscellaneous: Don’t forget tape, clips, or travel-size jars for water or medium. Final Tips Plan for the destination: If you’re flying internationally, research whether certain mediums or solvents are allowed. Pack smart: Place fragile supplies in the middle of your bag, cushioned by clothing. Ship ahead: For longer trips, consider shipping panels or bulkier items directly to your destination. Traveling with art supplies doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, you’ll arrive ready to create — without the heartbreak of damaged brushes or dented panels. 👉 Ready to stock up on travel-friendly supplies? Explore Trekell panels, brushes, and brush cases!

2025 Pet Portrait Winners!

Introducing our 2025 Pet Portrait Winners! Kids, Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced categories judged by Alai Ganuza! Our heartfelt thanks go out to everyone who participated! "Who can decide what is “good” or “bad” in art? Judging this contest has been an honor and a true challenge at the same time. So many beautiful entries, faces and amazing techniques that inspired me but just a few that win the prize. I have chosen these winners based on originality, uniqueness and potential. I hope you love them as much as I did and I hope they also inspire you to creating and celebrate creativity." - Alai Ganuza Advanced Winners: 1st - $1,000 Cash Alexandra Leonetti - Oil Why: Loose, fresh but real! This painting talked to me in so many ways. The texture in the background, the simplicity on the shapes but delicacy on the details. It says a lot with so little and that’s why I loved it. Plus, hearts! 2nd - $750 Cash Ginko Bergel - Watercolor Why: This painting made me smile as soon as I saw it. I love the technique, the details, each one of the faces (not just one pet but four!) and I loved the smart usage of the canvas shape! 3rd - $500 Cash Leah Patel - Oil Why: Subtle but powerful, that glow was perfectly captured. I love the light on this painting contrasting with the bold dark background. And I loved the subtle gradient from fire to purple that we see in the perfectly brushed fur. Intermediate Winners: 1st - $500 Cash Sean Gilbert - Oil Why: It is not easy to explain volume with that short range of values and this painting makes it perfect. It is a powerful image with a striking pose that I would never imagine with this color range and I loved it. 2nd - $250 Cash Joanna Comstock - Acrylic Why: This one surprised me with the beautiful style that fills up perfectly the panel shape making it a complete and unique piece. Each little hair block has its own smooth gradient that captures the depth so well. And the palette is also perfect for the subject. 3rd - $150 Cash Clara Flynn - Acrylic Why: The brush marks (almost like pencil marks), the shape and combined background with the leaves greens popping out and the complementary but pastel color palette made this painting an easy choice! Beginner Winners: 1st - $250 Cash Maya Dong - Oil Why: It is quite difficult to paint back light and it is even more difficult to do that in skin and earthy tones. However, I think this painting describes the scene greatly. It has depth, the lights are on point, and it has a bird! 2nd - $150 Cash Zenobia Shariff - Acrylic Why: When I saw this painting i just smiled. I wouldn’t imagine combining The Starry Night with a pup but here it is and the result is so cute! Those yellows on the head, ears and nose, make the painting complete while the pink adds some spice! 3rd - $100 Cash Jen Ramirez - Acrylic Why: This painting gets the most out of the limited palette and materials. I loved how it captures the cute face and expression with just a few colors right on the place. Changing the mark direction it also achieves volume and depth sensation and the background is busy enough to fit the subject but subtle enough not to draw attention from it! Plus the name’s Oreo! Kids Winners: 1st - Mystery Prize Pack Maddie Mullen Why: When I saw this painting I could imagine the little artist doing it. It is so joyful for the colors but the expression is so…nostalgic. It’s staring at my soul! But not in a bad way? I don’t know… just loved it. 2nd - Mystery Prize Pack Frankie Farrar Why: This one I loved the palette, the details and texture achieved with the marks and the cozy scene captured. But one detail stood out: they’re doing transparent white layering on top of the top pattern, they’re glazing?! Deserved to win! 3rd - Mystery Prize Pack Sophia Hodek Why: I was so hesitant to select this one because some others “captured the likeness more” or were more “academically correct”. However when I saw this I thought: potential. This shows a lot of work on those clouds. Not blending and keeping the texture to capture the fluffiness. The shape is also framed and with that dotted line showed attention to detail. In general this painting made me so happy and I can’t wait to see what this little artist creates in the future! FAVORITE DOG $100 Trekell Gift Certificate Kelly Foss - Oil chosen by Trekell Pro Team Artist Sean Cheetham FAVORITE CAT$100 Trekell Gift Certificate Jocelyn Long - Oil chosen by Trekell Pro Team Artist Nick Eisele FAVORITE "OTHER ANIMAL"$100 Trekell Gift Certificate Lydia Broc chosen by Trekell Pro Team Artist Eric Johnson PRO TEAM PICKSCurated Brush Set Meaghan Bonzer - Acrylic chosen by Trekell Pro Team Artist Allison Bamcat Stephanie Taylor - Oil chosen by Trekell Pro Team artist Todd Casey Elizabeth Moreland Kern - Other Media chosen by Trekell Pro Team artist Kai Lun Qu Trekell Staff Picks$25 Trekell Gift Certificate Courtney - Trekell Owner Veronika Gorchkova - Mixed Media Nathan Loda - Oil Mia Rivera - Acrylic Trekell Staff Picks$25 Trekell Gift Certificate Nikki - Woodshop Liz Gupta - Oil Mary Wells - Acrylic Jaci Tormala - Acrylic Trekell Staff Picks$25 Trekell Gift Certificate Andrew - Marketing Misty Wyant - Oil Kaylin Schafer - Mixed Media Alysia Harris - Acrylic Trekell Staff Picks$25 Trekell Gift Certificate Maria - Production Coordinator Danni Williams - Acrylic Haley Swedowski - Acrylic Katt Franich - Oil Trekell Staff Picks$25 Trekell Gift Certificate Katrina - Shipping Dept. Rafael Guerra - Oil Nita Tan - Oil Alex Tabet - Oil Trekell Staff Picks$25 Trekell Gift Certificate Myca - Customer Service Leah Thomason - Oil Liz Staley - Acrylic Teri Cadman - Acrylic Congratulations to all the winners! And thank you to everyone who participated. We had such a great time watching all the entries come in and viewing all the amazing artwork. We look forward to doing it again in 2026!

Why Quality Artist Brushes Cost What They Do

If you’ve ever stood in an art supply aisle wondering why one brush costs a few dollars while another is ten times that price, you’re not alone. To the untrained eye, they might look the same — a handle, some bristles, a metal ferrule holding it all together. But to an artist, a brush isn’t just a tool. It’s an extension of the hand, and the difference in quality shows up every time bristles meet the surface. So what makes one brush more expensive than another? Let’s take a closer look. The Anatomy of a Brush A well-made brush is more than just hair on a stick. Every part matters: Handle: Quality brushes often use hardwood that’s been properly dried and sealed, which helps prevent warping when exposed to water or solvents. The lacquer finish isn’t just about looks — it protects the wood and provides balance in the hand. Ferrule: This small metal sleeve is more important than it seems. Seamless nickel or brass ferrules are durable and resist corrosion, while cheaper, crimped versions can loosen and split over time. Hair or Filament: This is where costs can rise significantly. Natural options like kolinsky sable or hog bristle are rare and require careful processing, while high-end synthetics are engineered to mimic those natural properties — snap, spring, absorbency — without the ethical or sourcing challenges. Each element adds to the overall feel, longevity, and performance of the brush. Handmade vs. Mass-Produced Many inexpensive brushes are cut by machine. That means the tips of the hairs are blunt, which can make them feel scratchy and unpredictable on the surface. Higher-quality brushes are shaped by hand so that the natural taper of the hairs is preserved, giving the brush a smoother stroke and more precise control. That shaping process takes time, skill, and care — and it’s part of why professional-grade brushes carry a higher price tag. The Cost of Materials High-grade natural hairs are increasingly rare. Kolinsky sable, for example, has long been considered the gold standard for watercolor because of its water retention and spring. But it’s also one of the most expensive materials in the art world. On the synthetic side, companies (including Trekell) invest heavily in developing fibers that behave like natural hair. The result is filaments that snap back like kolinsky, hold paint well, and last longer — but that kind of innovation doesn’t come cheap. Longevity = Value A cheap brush might save money at checkout, but it often frays, sheds, or loses its shape after just a few sessions. A well-made brush, on the other hand, can last years with proper care. Over time, investing in better brushes actually saves money — and it saves frustration in the studio. The Trekell Standard At Trekell, we take brushmaking seriously. Every brush is tested for balance, snap, and durability, whether it’s a classic Golden Taklon or an innovative Protege Plus. We know artists are putting their trust in us when they pick up a Trekell brush, and we don’t take that lightly. The next time you find yourself weighing the price difference between brushes, remember: you’re not just buying wood and bristles. You’re investing in control, consistency, and longevity — the things that let your creativity shine without distraction. 👉 Ready to feel the difference for yourself? Explore Trekell’s full line of brushes [here].

Fan, Filbert, or Dagger? How to Choose the Right Brush Shape for Your Art

If you’ve ever stood in front of your collection of brushes and felt overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Even the great artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and O’Keeffe likely stood before their brushes. They obsessed over choosing the right tool for their creative visions. Selecting a brush isn’t about rules; it’s about the kind of mark you want to leave, and we at Trekell are ready to assist you. Think of this as your personal guide to artist brush shapes!Brush shape isn’t cosmetic, and it doesn’t dictate style—but it can free it. When choosing a brush shape, the options are endless. With some creativity, one shape can achieve different results. Let’s explore which shapes work best for specific outcomes. The Classics Round: The Swiss Army Knife of BrushesBest for: fine detail, outlines, and controlled washes.Artists who love it: Watercolorists like J.M.W. Turner utilized round brushes for their ability to produce fluid details. Flat: The BlockbusterBest for: bold, clean, strong, architectural-like strokes.Artists who love it: Abstract painter Mark Rothko relied on flat brushes to achieve those famous floating color fields.Trekell Tip: Use flats in acrylic for clean-edged blocking. Bright: The Punchy and Precise PowerhouseBest for: shorter and more textured markings.Historical note: Favored in oil painting for scumbling techniques since the Baroque era. The Shape-Shifters—Brushes That Adapt to Every Stroke Filbert: The Secret WeaponBest for: blending skin tones, petals, and natural edges. Think of it as the love child of a flat + round brush.Artists who love it: O’Keeffe used filberts to capture the soft gradations in her iconicflowers.**Historical Note:** Filbert brushes gained popularity during the Impressionist period. Artists liked them for softening edges and making natural transitions in foliage and skies. Fan: The Texture MasterBest for: adding texture and drama**Historical Note:** Early 20th-century landscape painters used fans to create atmosphere. They focused on foliage, fur, texture, and blended clouds. For When You Need a Trick Up Your Sleeve Liner / Script: For the Finer ThingsBest for: whiskers, branches, lettering. **Historical note:** Calligraphers adapted liners for sign painting in the 19th century.Trekell Tip: Use fluid paint, not stiff pigments, to prevent dragging. Dagger: One Stroke, Infinite PossibilitiesBest for: petals, long, flowing curves, and expressive strokes. Why artists love it: It can go from hairline thin to bold sweep without changing brushes. Botanical illustrators love daggers. They use them to capture organic line variation in one stroke. Angle: The Sharp Edge of PrecisionBest for: corners, sharp edges, controlled blends.Trekell Tip: Excellent for acrylic underpaintings or filling tight geometric spaces. The Ultimate Cheat Sheet for Every Shape Round = detail and versatilityFilbert = soft edges and portraitsFlat = bold strokes and blocking inBright = texture and layeringFan = blending and texturesLiner = fine detail and flowDagger = expressive curvesAngle = corners and precisionMatch the Brush to the Muse. Portraits → Filbert, Round, AngleLandscapes → Fan, Dagger, RoundAbstracts → Flat, Bright, Fan As an artist, you know that the brush is an extension of the hand. With Trekell, it is about finding the brushes that match your movements. Explore our complete line of brushes crafted for precision, texture, and experimentation. We can’t wait to see what you create!

How To Prime A Wood Panel For Watercolor

Early on, many artists are taught that watercolor is to be done on paper. Butthat’s not the only place where watercolor is bound to. With preparation, you can turn a wood panel into a stable surface for watercolor. Dating back to 15th-century Italy, painters would use poplar and oak panels. Even then, artists valued panels for their stability and fine details. These are still qualities that watercolor artists can enjoy today. Select the Right Panel Watercolorist Charles Reid saw the surface of art as an active part of the finalpiece, not a passive one. When shopping for panels, consider the smoothness and grain of the wood, as well as its grading quality. Avoid surfaces with knots or outward imperfections on the painting face. We offer artists a collection of high-quality panels. You can choose from classic rectangles and squares, plus unique limited-edition shapes. Many Renaissance artists, like Leonardo da Vinci, were fond of well-prepared wood panels. This is a result of the strong desire for precision. If that doesn’t convince you, think about da Vinci’s panel paintings. Many of them have lasted over 500 years. This shows the durability of the surface when it is prepared correctly. Seal the Wood While wood provides a dependable foundation for your work, it is also porous. This porosity can lead to unwanted staining, uneven absorption, or warping if left unsealed. Sealing creates a barrier that protects your ground and paint from unwanted interaction with the wood fibers. Did you know that early icon painters in Byzantium sealed panels with layers of animal glue to prevent the wood from reacting to humidity? This is a method that preserved colors and details for centuries. To seal the wood in modern times, follow these steps:● Apply a thin coat of Golden GAC100 or a similar transparent acrylic polymer with a broad, soft brush.● Once this application is complete, allow at least 24 hours for the sealant to completely dry.An optional step, though recommended, is to sand the surface gently with fine-grit sandpaper once dry to achieve a smoother finish. Applying Watercolor Ground Watercolor ground is a modern innovation. This is a medium that became commercially available in the early 2000s. Now, watercolorists can use it on various surfaces, like metal, canvas, and ceramics. The oldest known watercolor painting is from ancient Egypt. Back then, artists painted on papyrus and stone, which provided long-lasting results. When you prep a panel well, your artwork gains stability and can last for decades on gallery walls. So, how do you apply watercolor ground? Follow these steps:● After sealing, spread Daniel Smith Watercolor Ground with a brush or paletteknife until the surface is smooth and uniform.● Allow it to dry for 24–72 hours, based on your desired absorbency.● Also, sand between coats for a smoother, paper-like feel, like watercolor paper. Mounting Watercolor Paper Mounting paper to rigid supports has been popular since the 19th century. Botanical illustrators usually attach delicate papers to cardboard or wood for support. Then, they create detailed ink and watercolor designs.To mount watercolor paper, you must:● Seal the panel with GAC100 and sand it lightly.● Apply a pH-neutral, archival adhesive (BEVA film, Lineco Neutral pH, or archival PVA) to both the panel and the paper.● Smooth with a brayer or press, and dry under weight for 24 hours.● Trim or sand the paper edges to make them flush with the panel. Check out Trekell's complete collection of panels, watercolor grounds, and panel prep materials. See how far your watercolor creations can thrive on a stable foundation!

5 Mistakes Artists Make When Prepping a Wood Panel (and How to Avoid Them)

While painting on wood panels that have been properly prepped, you can expect a surface that offers structure, durability, and a beautifully smooth surface. But, without this preparation, you run the risk of uneven absorption, cracking, warping, or discoloration. Yikes! Today, we’re going to highlight five common mistakes and how you can avoid them! Don’t Skip the Sealant Step Imagine you’re working through your sketchbook when suddenly inspiration for your next piece hits. You may be tempted to begin applying gesso directly to the raw wood of your panel. But by skipping the sealing process entirely, wood can absorb moisture, oils, or pigments from your ground and paints. Because of wood's naturally porous nature, if you don't seal your surface, you may have a finished project with dulled colors and an unstable foundation that can deteriorate over time. Renaissance painter Giovanni Bellini was one of the first to make an effort to seal wood panels before applying his medium. The result? His works have lasted centuries with minimal degradation and well-preserved pigments. You want your work to have the same opportunity to be preserved for future generations, and that is precisely why it is essential not to skip the sealant step. Sealing wood panels could mean the difference between being forgotten and being remembered in art history! How to Build a Solid Foundation When starting a new project or layering your masterpiece, the importance of the “foundation” is often emphasized. In both scenarios, you want to make the most reliable choice. The same goes for creating the foundation of your artwork. For instance, you can utilize a clear, flexible sealant like Golden’s GAC100 (a favorite of Trekell customers). With the application of one to two thin coats with a soft brush or foam applicator, and time to dry before priming, you will be on your way to creating your next masterpiece. Take the guesswork out of gesso, and keep in mind that not all Gesso (or Ground) is created equally. Using the wrong ground could result in poor adhesion and bubbles on your surface. Media such as watercolor, encaustic, or charcoal practically require a specific type of ground. While acrylic gesso is a go-to for acrylic and oil, it’s unsuitable for absorbent media like watercolor or encaustic without the right base. Check out the links below to discover the perfect primer, gesso, and sealant for your desired medium. ● Acrylic ● Oil ● Watercolor For predictable results, make sure to test your ground on a scrap panel before committing. This will provide you with an idea of the expected texture, absorption, and compatibility! Don’t Rush Past the Refinement When working on a wooden panel, skipping the sanding process between coats of sealant or gesso leads to uneven surfaces, unwanted texture, and inconsistent paint flow. Not only that, but a gritty base can soak up paint unpredictably, dulling your colors and causing cracks over time. Thankfully, there is an easy solution, and by using fine-grit sandpaper (220–320) between each layer of sealant and ground, you will be able to create a smooth and professional surface. Did you know? Artist John Singer Sargent was known for sanding down layers of gesso and oil to achieve a refined, glassy surface, ideal for his fluid brushwork. Using the Wrong Adhesive for Paper or Linen When mounting paper or linen to a panel, leave the school glue to the kids, and stick to archival, pH-neutral adhesives. Classic, school glue, and other non-archival adhesives are intentionally low quality. This lack in quality can cause a plethora of issues, such as wrinkling, yellowing, or peeling. Additionally, these mediocre adhesives will not stand a chance when it comes to wet media. We recommend options like Lineco Neutral pH Adhesive or archival PVA glues. Don’t Ignore Storage and Environmental Conditions Without proper storage, sealed panels can swell or warp. This puts your finished work at risk of significant damage. Sure, it may be convenient to store your panels in garages, basements, or attics, but all of these places are often subjected to constantly changing temperatures. To keep your panels pristine, store them flat or upright with airflow, avoid high humidity, direct sunlight, or damp conditions. Trekell Pro Tip: Our panels are made from high-quality Baltic birch and CNC-cut for consistency. Their thicker builds help resist warping in varied climates. Don’t let your foundation fail your art. A reliable surface starts long before the first brushstroke. As a dedicated artist, you want the best panels for painting and to know how to prepare them well. This preparation is not a tedious chore; it prevents mistakes and ensures a surface your creativity deserves. Panel prep may feel like a tedious and time-consuming activity, but when you remember that by doing this prep work, you are giving your art a chance to survive for generations. Sealing to sanding, each step gives your work the solid, archival foundation it deserves, and when done right, a well-prepped wood panel enhances your skills and finished product. Need supplies? Explore Trekell’s range of panels, gessos, grounds, and professional brushes to create with confidence!

Why Baltic Birch Panels Might Be Your New Favorite Surface

Rethink Raw: Why Baltic Birch Panels Might Be Your New Favorite Surface Wood panels are often pigeonholed as “just for oil painters.” But the truth? With the right prep, Trekell’s raw Baltic Birch panels can be transformed into the perfect canvas for almost any medium—even ones that usually live on paper. Let’s break that boundary. What Makes Trekell’s Baltic Birch Special? B/BB-grade Baltic Birch — flawless on the front side Light in tone and grain — a clean, neutral base Classic and custom shapes — round, ovals, gothic arches, and limited-edition drops Warp-resistant thickness — especially our ½" panels They're smooth, sturdy, and strong enough to carry your vision—whatever that looks like. Before You Begin: Always Seal It No matter your medium, sealing is step one. We recommend Golden’s GAC100, but other artist-grade sealants work too. This clear barrier: Prevents oil, ground, or moisture from seeping into the wood Enhances longevity Creates a stable surface for priming Sealing the sides is optional—some artists love a clean, polished look; others let the edge stay raw. Prep for Anything: A Medium-by-Medium Breakdown 🎨 Oil Painting After sealing: Apply oil ground (like Gamblin’s) or acrylic gesso Or adhere linen with your preferred archival adhesive 🖌️ Acrylic Painting After sealing: Prime with white, black, clear, or tinted gesso Or adhere gesso-primed linen for a fabric texture with your preferred archival adhesive 💧 Watercolor After sealing: Apply Daniel Smith Watercolor Ground Or rough-sand the surface and adhere your favorite watercolor paper with a pH-neutral adhesive ✏️ Drawing (Pencil, Graphite, etc.) After sealing: Sand lightly for a smooth surface Apply Golden Drawing Ground, then sand again if desired Or adhere drawing paper directly to the panel 🌸 Pastel After sealing: Apply a Golden Pastel Ground Or adhere pastel paper with a pH-neutral adhesive 🔥 Pyrography No sealing needed. The raw Baltic Birch surface is clean and smooth—perfect for burning detailed designs with precision. 🕯️ Encaustic After sealing: Lightly sand the surface to add tooth Apply a dedicated encaustic gesso (like R&F) Note: Do not use standard acrylic gesso. It’s not porous enough for proper wax adhesion. Storage Tips for Long-Term Use Store panels flat or upright with good airflow Avoid environments with extreme heat or moisture Sealing helps—but our ½" thick panels are extra sturdy Final Thoughts: It’s Time to Get Experimental Your surface shouldn’t limit your creativity—it should support it. Trekell’s Baltic Birch panels are built to adapt. Whether you’re layering translucent watercolor, burning designs, or building up thick encaustic textures, these boards give you the strength and flexibility to create with confidence. 👉 Shop Trekell Panels and find your new favorite surface today.

How to Break a Creative Block with The One Brush Challenge

One Brush, a blank surface, and an opportunity for creative discovery It happens to all of us at least once: the moment when it feels like your creativity has hit a wall. Ideas feel uninspired and lack momentum, sketching feels like a chore, and motivation seems nonexistent. In the past, you may have felt tempted to take a trip to your local art store, hoping that you would find your muse in a new tool, medium, or canvas as you explored the aisles. Instead of adding to your collection, we at Trekell have a challenge proposition for you. The One Brush Challenge is about sparking a new way of thinking with a ‘less is more’ approach. By using one, yes one, singular brush of your choice, you become less focused on perfection, but instead on the movement and fluidity of creating something with what is right in front of you. This isn’t about limiting yourself or creating a masterpiece. It is a challenge focused on removing yourself from a creative rut, loosening up, and finding your rhythm again. Like Picasso said, “Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working.” First, you need to pick your brush. If you want to challenge yourself, choose a brush that is one of the least used in your collection. Because you are only selecting one brush, the shape you choose will dictate your entire experience, so be mindful of the personality of your choice. Did You Know? Monet was known to often paint with worn-down flat brushes. The fraying let him create unexpected textures and markings. Perhaps you will consider using one of your seemingly retired brushes? What would we pick? Well, there are no wrong answers to this question. Part of the beauty of this challenge is the countless options you could uncover. But here are some of our initial thoughts. ● A Filbert Brush for its ability to beautifully render figurative works, or a Long Filbert for more spontaneity and looseness in creation. ● With its unique knife-like shape, the Dagger Brush renders precise lines ideal for detailed shapes and forms. It is undoubtedly a brush choice that may not get as much attention as it deserves. ● Last but certainly not least, the Round Brush. Fine lines, detail work, curves, fluidity, and pressure influence outcomes. This is an excellent brush option to experiment with for this one-brush challenge. The second tool you will need for this challenge is a timer. Setting a timer for 30 to 60 minutes will enable you to stay loose as the time ticks by, you will be less distracted with worrying about potential outcomes, and instead paint by using your intuitive artistic instincts. (Artist: Greg Simkins) Our tip for this leg of the challenge? Start small on a sketchbook page, scrap paper, panel, or a small canvas. The objective here is no pressure, just pure expression and play. If you require more of a plan or structure when participating in a challenge, consider painting something new every day of the week. You could use the same brush daily or swap it out for a different one in your collection for each session. Try as many techniques, positions, angles, or apply more or less pressure on your brush to unlock its full potential. ● Day 1: Abstract marks and shapes ● Day 2: Still life (something from your desk or kitchen) ● Day 3: A quick landscape ● Day 4: An animal form (real or imagined) ● Day 5: A self-portrait or human figure ● Day 6–7: Free choice or redo your favorite (Artist: Eric Johnson) Want to add another bonus level to this challenge? Try limiting your color palette. Keep your color selections tight or within a theme. Working within a focused palette puts you into a mindset that is focused more on composition, value, and brushwork, not just color choice. A restricted color palette in art history that you may recall is Picasso’s Blue Period. During this time, his nearly monochrome works captured raw emotion using the few materials he had. Color pallets you may consider are: ● One color plus black or white for shading. ● A triad (3 harmonizing colors) ● Grayscale After participating in this challenge, take a step back and observe (without criticism). What has your subconscious been trying to tell you during the progression of this challenge? ● What surprised you? ● What felt good to paint? ● Did a new idea or technique show up when you weren’t trying? Sometimes, the best way to get through a creative block is not by adding more options but limiting them. One brush, palette, a block of time, and space away from overthinking. Remember that our artwork isn't about control but rediscovery. Let the brush do what it was made to do, let the work be raw and emotional, and let yourself be surprised. Start with one brush. Start with Trekell.

How to Choose the Right Brush for Your Medium -and Why It Matters.

Every brushstroke tells a story, so choosing the right brush for your medium is crucial. Vincent van Gogh's oil paint brushwork is that of a swirling storm with emotion sculpted in paint. David Hockney's acrylic brushstrokes are flat and graphic. In contrast, J.M.W. Turner's watercolors feature gentle, cloud-like sweeps across the canvas. The right paintbrush isn't about size, but also about control, texture, and getting the most out of your medium of choice. Your brush is your top tool. It helps you turn your ideas into reality. You can use it with thick oils, fast-drying acrylics, or flowing watercolors. Let’s take a closer look at the best brushes for each medium. For Oil Painting: Go Bold, Go Durable Rembrandt created texture and depth within the shadows of his oil paintings. This type of brushwork requires brushes capable of handling thick paint and maintaining their shape. Treckell offers brushes with natural and synthetic options. These are perfect for handling the weight of your medium, with softer, springier options for detail work and glazing. Ideal Brush Types: ● Filbert – Our Filbert and Long Filbert brushes provide the control desired when blending edges with smooth curves. These may be the preferred brushes for figurative rendering. ● Flat—If you are looking for a strong brush that can handle the weight of oil and produce confident blocks of color, try our Flat or Long Flat brushes. Your typical length brushes are great for up-close work, while long brushes are best for working at a distance. ● Round—For detailed work and drawing-like control, try our Round Brush. Create stunning fine lines and curved strokes. Apply various levels of pressure to help you create different effects. Trekell Tip: Oils are slow-drying, so use durable brushes to push and sculpt paint. For Acrylic Painting: Versatility Is Key People know Bridget Riley for her precise acrylics. They move like hypnotic waves. The clean, sharp edges seem anti-brushstroke. Even invisible marks can leave a strong impression. Amy Sherald's portraits have a matte finish. They feature smooth, even layers of acrylic paint. You can hardly see any brushstrokes. Her restraint makes the color do the talking, with calm and deliberate visual power. You may consider the following to achieve this effect while using acrylic paints. Stiff synthetic bristles can handle acrylic’s fast-drying nature without becoming misshapen, and nylon or taklon are smooth, resilient, and easy to clean. Ideal Brush Types: ● Angle—If you want to create clean lines, Angle Brushes are the best tool for the job. Trekell offers a variety of brush sizes that are perfect for edges and those hard-to-reach, tight corners. ● Bright—The efficiency of the flat ferrule and short bristles makes the Bright Brush excellent for your creative endeavors in creating bold, textured marks. The ability to precisely apply paint is beneficial when a medium such as acrylic allows quick, controlled strokes. ● Fan—The perks of using a Fan Brush come from its ability to create delicate textures, soft blend styles, and add dimensions to your work. Trekell's selection of various Fan Brush ferrule sizes creates endless opportunities for your artwork's potential. Trekell Tip: Acrylics dry fast, so look for brushes that won’t fray or clog with paint. Make sure to exclusively use our line of brushes created explicitly for acrylic painting. For Watercolor Painting: Soft Touch, Smooth Flow John Singer Sargent's watercolor brushwork is bold and exhibits an effortless quality. His mastery lies in making complex subjects appear simple at first glance. Meanwhile, Georgia O'Keeffe's watercolors have soft edges where brushstrokes feel composed. Watercolor and gouache are great choices because they are fluid and forgiving. Using the right brushes makes a big difference when working with these media. Ideal Brush Types: ● Round—The Round Brush is the watercolor MVP for washes and fine detail. The round tip holds water and pigment, ideal for maximum coverage on the page. This allows you to build up the layers of your medium as you see fit. ● Oval– The rounded bristles and flat ferrules combine to produce a stunning soft edge. These features of the Oval Brush can be handy for laying in pigment or water and absorbing excess media. ● Rigger – The tiny tip of the Rigger Brush is crucial for creating long, continuous lines and calligraphic details. When used to enhance finishing details, the results produced by this brush add a new level of sophistication to your work. Trekell Tip: Watercolor requires fluid motion and pigment control. Look for brushes that hold their shape when wet. Try our collection of watercolor brushes for beginner-to-pro-level results. Clean your brushes with attention to detail, regardless of the medium. Oil brushes need solvent or oil-based cleaners, while acrylic and watercolor brushes only need water and mild soap. Store your brushes upright to prevent the bristles from bending and to maintain their shape. Also, organize your brushes by medium to avoid mixing, which can cause residue and harm your paint or surface. Invest in your brush collection and allow your brush to reflect your vision. Your art deserves the right tools. Use Trekell's brushes to layer glazes in oils, create texture with acrylics, or apply washes in watercolor—mix and match Trekell’s brushes to complement your medium and style best.

The 7th Annual 2025 Pet Portrait Juried Competition

Want to win a $1,000 CASH? Join us for our 7th Annual Trekell Juried Pet Portrait Competition! Our furry, feathery, and scaly friends are always there to lend a paw, nuzzle, or cuddle when we need it. Now, it’s their turn to shine in the spotlight they deserve during our 7th Annual Trekell Juried Pet Portrait Competition! Join this paw-some event to celebrate your cherished pet through art. Your muse could be a tail-wagging pup, a purring kitty, or even a reptilian rockstar! Share your pet's unique personality with the world through your art. From their soulful eyes to their silly and playful poses, we want to see portraits of your most loyal companions. Let your brush tell their story—one that makes tails wag and hearts melt. This is more than a competition—it’s a chance to immortalize the unsung heroes who’ve brought light into our lives. Show us your pet-tential and create a masterpiece worthy of your four-legged (or no-legged) muse. Submissions are open now—don’t paws for too long! How to Enter: ● Purchase one of our official 2025 Pet Portrait Panels to create your entry! ● All traditional mediums are welcome. ● Entries must be submitted by August 31st, 2025 ● Multiple entries are allowed. Meet This Year's Judge: Alai Ganuza We’re thrilled to welcome Alai Ganuza as the judge for our 7th Annual Art Competition! A rising force in contemporary oil painting, Alai’s work celebrates color, emotion, and everyday beauty. Alai moved beyond photorealism and found a unique style. Her art features bold brushwork and celebrates everyday life. Working primarily with oil on wood, paper, and canvas, their expressive pieces convey joy, warmth, and authenticity. Alai has over 630,000 followers on social media and in the art community. They use this platform to educate, inspire, and uplift other creatives. Their artistic journey is a testament to persistence, experimentation, and the power of showing up, even through life’s challenges. “I think there's no 'only one possible or right way' to do this. The important thing is to paint. Experiment, test things. But always be kind to the community because Art is not a one-person thing!”- Alai Ganuza. Prizes by Category (Artist: Yuki Pan, 2023 Advanced category winner) Advanced: This category is for artists with 5+ years of experience mastering medium, design, and technique. First Place: $1,000 Second Place: $750 Third Place: $500 (Artist: Kaitlin Daly, 2024 Intermediate category winner) Intermediate: For artists with 2–4 years of painting experience and solid control of value and form. First Place: $500 Second Place: $250 Third Place: $150 (Artist: Jessa Clements, Beginner category winner) Beginner: For artists who have been painting for 2 years or less, exploring foundational skills. First Place: $250 Second Place: $150 Third Place: $100 (Artist: Keira Mumford, Kids category winner) Kids (12 & Under): Celebrate and encourage young creativity! First, second, and third place winners receive mystery prizes full of fun surprises. (Artist: David Vegt, Top Animal category winner) Top Animal Category: Pro Team artists will choose their favorite dog, cat, and other pet portraits. Each winner receives a $100 Trekell Gift Card. (Artist: Jamie Morris, 2023 Pro Team pick winner) Pro Team Picks: Selected by Trekell Pro Team members, these winners receive an exclusive brush set curated by the artist who picked them. (Artist: Marina Zellers, 2024 Trekell Staff picks) Trekell Staff Picks: Eighteen standout entries selected by the Trekell team will each receive a $25 Gift Certificate. Rules and Guidelines: Eligibility and Winning Limitation: ● Each individual can win only once in the competition. ● No limit on the number of panels that can be purchased and entered. Nature of the Competition: ● A juried competition, with prizes awarded based on skill and creativity. ● It is not a random lottery; winners are chosen based on merit. Entry Requirement: ● Your entry is confirmed upon purchasing an official 2025 Trekell Pet Portrait Panel. ● Entries must be created on the official 2025 panel to be eligible. ● Submissions must be JPEG. Please keep submissions under 2 megabytes in size. Submission Deadline: ● All entries must be received by August 31st, 2025, 11:59 PM PST. ● Late entries will not be considered. Please review the rules and guidelines to ensure compliance and maintain the competition's integrity and fairness. Join us at Trekell, let your creativity shine, and become part of an inspiring tradition. Grab your 2025 Pet Portrait Competition Panel today and embark on a creative adventure! Click here to see last year's winners! Click Here to Purchase Your 2025 Competition Panel! Click Here To Submit Your 2025 Entry!

From Hobbyist to Pro: Passion to Profession

6 Tips for Becoming a Full-Time Artist (with Tools That Help You Get There) Henri Matisse once said, "Creativity takes courage." Do you know what also takes courage? Turning your passion for art into a full-blown profession. This is a dream for many, and it relies on factors beyond your talent. Shifting from hobbyist to professional artist requires structure, consistency, and the right tools. This decision takes an entire mindshift change, exploration, and development of your in-person and online artistic identity. You’ve now got to create art, build a business, track expenses, network, and so much more. Whether selling your first painting or preparing your portfolio for a gallery, Trekell is here to help you improve at every step. 1 - Shift Your Mindset: Art Is a Business Now The shift from painting on the weekends to setting up daily work hours can be difficult at first. It takes self-discipline that you may not have experienced up until now. You are not only going from hobbyist artist to professional artist, but you are also now an entrepreneur and have to start thinking as such. Your art is now a business. Brainstorming and setting some SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Related, and Time-bound) goals around your monthly sales targets, social media growth, gallery placements, and beyond is essential. Additionally, you will need to build a routine that works best for your work-life balance. Treat your art with the same dedication as any 9-to-5. Trekell Tip: Use a daily planner or app to structure your creative and marketing hours. Pair it with high-quality Trekell brushes to make every minute count! 2 - Find Your Artistic Identity & Niche If you’re reading this, you're likely ready to move from hobbyist to professional. You likely have a well-defined artistic identity or niche in mind for this journey. Developing a distinct style is your golden ticket to standing out in a saturated art world. Are you a surrealist watercolorist or a bold abstract acrylic painter? Who buys your art—designers, collectors, or casual shoppers? This identity and niche help you in the art world. They also set you apart as you build your online and social media presence. This is key in today's digital society. 3 - Build Your Brand & Digital Presence Consumer Affairs says people use their phones for about 4 hours and 30 minutes daily. You want your content to be what they focus on! Remember, you are an entrepreneur now and must show your work regularly. To do this, you will (most likely) need the following: ● A professional website (Squarespace, Wix, Shopify, or WordPress) ● A strong Meta (Facebook and Instagram), TikTok, or Pinterest presence. ● Videos of your process, time lapses, and studio tours help you connect with your audience and engage viewers in your creativity. ● Email newsletters or Substack. Trekell Tip: Capture your creative process using Trekell tools in action—tag @TrekellArtSupplies for a chance to be featured! 4 - Network Like It's Your Job If you want to grow as a professional artist, networking isn't optional—it's essential. Think of it as an extension of your job. From online artist communities to local gallery shows, the more people who know your name (and your art), the more doors open. List five regional events and five online groups to join this month. Set a goal to introduce yourself and comment or contribute at least once weekly. Connections compound, and your future collectors could be one conversation away. Online Networking Tips: ● Join active Facebook groups for artists, illustrators, and muralists. ● Dive into Discord servers dedicated to visual art critique, collaboration, or professional growth. ● Take part in Instagram collabs or TikTok duets with other creators. In-Person Opportunities: ● Visit local gallery openings and art walks—even showing up can lead to connections. ● Apply to local art fairs and pop-ups. These are great for visibility and direct sales. Attend artist workshops or residency programs to meet like-minded professionals. ● Ask about being a guest speaker for local colleges and high schools' art classes. Collab & Connect: ● Reach out to art influencers, bloggers, or even interior designers who may showcase your work. ● Offer to do guest blog posts, co-host Instagram Lives, or partner on limited-edition drops. Trekell Tip: Create a branded artist package for digital sharing with collaborators and potential contacts. 5 - Price Smart & Track Your Finances Monetizing your masterpieces is the primary way to earn an income as a professional artist. The avenues for selling may include: ● Originals and prints on platforms like Etsy or Shopify ● Commissions & Custom Art with transparent pricing and timelines. Many artists find it best to scale their businesses with custom commissions. ● Teaching on platforms like Patreon or YouTube. Choose top-notch materials, like Trekell panels, for items you want to sell or scan for prints. Remember, quality beats quantity every time. Learning how to price your work and manage your finances will be crucial for you as a professional artist. Consider the following details: materials, the value of your time and skills, the current market, and remember to include tax! Trekell Tip: Keep receipts for all your supplies. Trekell invoices make tax season easier when you're tracking deductible business expenses. 6 - Stay Consistent & Keep Growing People often tell you "no" as an artist and now as an entrepreneur. Instead of thinking of these "no's" as reasons you should stop, use them as motivation to level up. For every time you're told "no," use that time to refine your style, watch tutorials, and invest in better tools like Treckell brushes. Set monthly goals, like selling one original piece or posting weekly. Explore new mediums, improve your skills, and find inspiration in the community and creative challenges. This way, you stay consistent and allow yourself to grow as an artist and entrepreneur. You could book out a year from when you start. Remember that growth takes time, but the right tools + mindset = success. We started with the quote by Henri Matisse, "Creativity takes courage." Once again, I remind you that leaping from passion to profession also takes immense courage, self-discipline, and belief. You'll stumble, fall, and even fail at some things. But all these "no's" are opportunities for you to dig deeper into the untouched levels of your creativity and abilities as an artist. Finding your niche or starting an online shop? Remember: the journey from hobbyist to pro begins with a bold step and your favorite brush.

How to Maintain a Healthy Work-Life Balance as an Artist

Artists tend to have a reputation for being starving and sleep-deprived. We understand the struggle. How can artists keep a healthy work-life balance? They face challenges like commissions, social media, and their creative passion, which can lead to burnout. Not only are artists expected to be masters of their craft, but they are also expected to master the art of balance. Work-life balance is essential for creative longevity. Finding this balance helps you create a clear schedule and routine. It also lets you plan projects, manage the business side of art, and gives you time to care for yourself outside of being an artist. Trekell Tip: Remember, caring for yourself means caring for your tools. So, invest in durable brushes that won’t wear out. Your Art Deserves Office Hours! Monet treated his studio practice like a 9-to-5 job, maintaining strict work hours. Setting clear boundaries within your schedule allows you to separate creative work from personal life. A well-known American author and productivity consultant, David Allen, once said, "You can do anything, but not everything.” We must focus on tasks during a set amount of time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Maintaining a clear work schedule will benefit your career and personal life. Allowing the people who want to spend their time with you a concept of your availability to connect and spend time together. If you are an artist without a studio separate from your home, try creating a unique space. Even a small corner can help you switch from work to relaxation. You Don’t Have to Be a Starving, Sleep-Deprived Artist! Artist self-care includes a focus on avoiding burnout. In any industry, especially creative ones, the continuous act of creating without rest leads to exhaustion. A lack of energy will only lead to a decrease in inspiration. Vincent van Gogh said, “The only time I feel alive is when I'm painting,” but even he needed breaks. People call a popular productivity hack the Pomodoro Technique, where you work for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. In this 5-minute break, you can drink water (staying hydrated is essential), have a snack, walk, stretch, dance, or get some cuddles with your pets. Even briefly stepping away from the tasks can help you maintain a clear headspace and avoid burning out. Remember, focus on physical and mental health- your body is your best art tool! Long hours of sitting and painting can lead to strain and stress. Many famous artists, including Frida Kahlo, battled chronic pain; self-care is essential. Kahlo understood how precious the physical and mental well-being of an artist is. Take stretch breaks, eat nutritious meals, and prioritize sleep. It is also important to Make Time for Non-Art Activities (Yes, Artists Can Have Hobbies Too!) Taking time away from your craft can refresh creativity. Try an unrelated hobby like hiking, cooking, or even gardening to spark fresh ideas. Trekell Tip: Give your brushes and mind a break by properly cleaning and storing your tools with Trekell’s brush cleaning kits. Plan and Prioritize- Not Every Idea Needs to Be a Masterpiece! Having masterpiece-level ideas is always incredible, but we can not expect every idea we have always to be that way. Even ‘bad’ ideas are good if they are helping you to further your craft. Taking the time to plan and focus on your ideas helps to prevent overwhelm and ensures that you're working toward your goals. Leonardo da Vinci used notebooks to capture his ideas. He blended art with science in his creative process. Using your sketchbook, journal, and planner can help you manage your time. Schedule your creative projects, deadlines, and personal time. This way, you can focus on the ideas that will become masterpieces. Setting short- and long-term career and personal goals can help you envision ambitious aspirations and create effective plans. Clear goals give artists direction and motivation. Salvador Dalí wrote detailed goals for his art and personal life, helping him build an enduring legacy. Write down three short-term and three long-term goals—and revisit them often. Analyzing what small steps you can take daily towards accomplishing said goals. Learn to Say No- Not Every Commission is Worth Your Sanity! The temptation to say “Yes” to every opportunity that comes your way can be very strong. But overcommitting leads to stress and often low-quality work. This stress can also feed into exhaustion, burnout, and a lack of inspiration. When opportunities knock, ask yourself: Does this fit my artistic and financial goals? If not, decline with courtesy. As an artist, you must know your worth and add tax! Your creativity, perspective, and skills need protection. If that means learning to say “no” to safeguard your peace, then it’s worth it. Separate Finances (Keep Business and Personal Expenses Apart!) Michelangelo was a master sculptor, painter, and a savvy businessman. Michelangelo managed his own money, unlike many artists who depended on patrons. He negotiated contracts and ensured that he received fair payment for his work. He left detailed financial records. They show how he managed his commissions, paid assistants, and reinvested in his craft. If one of history’s greatest artists could be strategic with money, so can you! Money management isn’t the glamorous part of being an artist, but it’s one of the most crucial. If you’ve ever struggled to find receipts or wondered if that last art supply was for work or personal use, it’s time to change how you manage your finances. Mixing personal and business finances can quickly result in a nightmare. Without a clear separation, you may struggle with: ● Tax issues – Tracking tax deductions gets harder when personal and business transactions mix. ● Budgeting issues – Knowing how much you make (and spend) as an artist is key to financial stability. ● Professionalism – Clear financial records help when applying for grants, artist residencies, or business loans. Actionable Tips for Financial Organizations: ● Open a dedicated bank account for art income and expenses. ● Use accounting software or spreadsheets to track finances. ● Keep digital or physical copies of receipts. This helps with tax deductions on art supplies, studio rent, and travel expenses. Taking control of your finances like Michelangelo did will reduce stress and set you up for long-term artistic success. Being an artist isn’t about creating beautiful work but building a sustainable creative life. Keeping a healthy work-life balance helps you create art. It protects your well-being, finances, and personal relationships. Balance is key to a fulfilling artistic journey. You need to set boundaries, practice self-care, and plan your career. Also, learn when to say no. The greats—Monet, Michelangelo, Frida Kahlo, and Leonardo da Vinci—knew that art is more than inspiration. It requires discipline, strategy, and self-care, too. By implementing these habits, you’re investing in your art and yourself. Your creativity is a gift—protect, nurture, and let it thrive for years. Trekell Tip: Like your creative spirit, your tools also need care. Invest in high-quality materials, clean your brushes, and give yourself the space to rest and recharge.

6 Habits of a Successful Artist

Throughout time, artists have built unique habits and rituals that have helped them succeed. These routines also help them remain productive and inspired daily while working to improve their craft and avoiding creative burnout. The habits and daily routines of successful artists range from quirky to strict. This freedom to design your ideal creative routine is a significant benefit of being an artist. Let’s look at many successful artists' daily habits and rituals. Practices that have helped them succeed in their creative endeavors. Of course, using and taking care of your tools is crucial for any artist. Trekell brushes, tools, and care products are essential for any artist to have as a part of their routine. Waking Up Early In many fields, joining the early risers club is a key to success. Gustav Klimt, N.C. Wyeth and Francis Bacon began their mornings with the first rays of sunshine between 4 AM and 6 AM. They took full advantage of the peaceful early hours, serene inspiration, and environment for optimal productivity. Sunrise is often a quiet time with fewer distractions, perfect for letting your ideas—and coffee—brew. It is reported that the mind is fresher in the morning, allowing for better creativity, problem-solving, and mental and emotional clarity. This set wakeup time also lends itself to establishing a consistent routine and a healthier lifestyle. Create a Routine That Fuels Creativity Whether 20 minutes or 18 hours, dedicating time to be in the studio is crucial. Having this time daily is a key practice in the dedication required for success and how we, as artists, make time for mastery. Many of us are responsible for making time for our art before or after our day jobs and caring for our families. Time dedicated to the studio is precious and requires a certain level of dedication and personal willpower. Life often becomes busy with little warning. A set routine can help manage your individual and art-focused goals. While many successful artists choose to follow a routine and spend time in the studio, they also allow themselves time for sudden bursts of inspiration. Flexibility in your routine also provides time for reflection. Many great artists reflect on their inspirations and ideas. They review sketches and past work. This regular reflection helps you connect to your creativity, desires, and goals. Creative Warm-ups British painter Chris Ofili is an example of someone who sticks to a strict studio schedule. He reportedly starts his work at 9 AM. Ofili begins his day with abstract marks on paper and then transitions to his medium of choice. New techniques can help you relax as you dive into your creative work. Try starting with simple doodles or quick sketches. You never know; you could be like Ofili and develop this practice into a collection, as he did with his Afro Muses. Other fun warm-ups are blind contours and sketching from new perspectives- look up, down, upside down, underneath, or on top. There’s so much to explore! Warm-ups also include learning and experimenting. It is so important to stay curious in many areas of life. An open mind helps you push boundaries. It can reveal parts of your creativity you didn’t know existed. Goal-Setting There’s no one “right” way for artists to set goals. Still, setting them up can boost your motivation. It also helps you reflect on what you’ve achieved. Goals can include finishing a delayed project, completing smaller tasks, learning a new skill, or trying a new medium. Breaking big goals into smaller, manageable tasks is one way for artists to set goals. But what if you don’t achieve a goal you’ve worked so hard on? Successful artists embrace failure. It’s a key part of the creative process. In a letter, Vincent Van Gogh once wrote, "Success is sometimes the outcome of a whole string of failures.” Van Gogh knew something about failing as an artist, as most of his success came after he died in 1890. Instead of fearing failure, we, as artists, can see these moments as key parts of our journey. Much of what doesn't work is practice, which helps us to hone and perfect our craft. Physical Movement Often, successful artists include physical movement in their routines. They might walk, garden, or swim outdoors. Exercise can help us gain fresh perspectives, sometimes without realizing it. Many do not know the grueling physical strain that comes with hours of creating and, admittedly, not the best posture when hunched over the easel. Incorporating stretching, running, tai chi, and chopping wood can help maintain flexibility and mobility. Spanish painter and sculptor Joan Miró thought physical activity was tied to well-being. After hours spent intensely working in the studio, Miró followed it up with intense exercise. The well-known saying, "A body in motion stays in motion, a mind at work stays at work," fits perfectly here. Exercising both body and mind can boost your creativity. Self-care and well-being are often overlooked but crucial elements of being an artist. Prioritizing Your Wellbeing Successful artists use various habits and rituals for self-care and mental wellness. Self-care includes things like exercise, meditation, naps, and healthy meals. These activities help prevent creative burnout. It can also mean enjoying art and culture in person or online. In a world that is both physical and digital, you can easily dive into art and culture. It can be inspiring. You'll meet new people, discover new places, and find many sources of creativity. However, constantly seeing others can lead to a habit of harmful comparisons. We might feel like we aren’t doing enough or that our ideas aren’t fresh or impactful. Finding what self-care and mental wellness practices work best for you will be crucial to the longevity of your creative journey. You can prepare to connect with your artistic community once you set and develop these habits and boundaries. This will help you engage more with the broader art community. Engaging with the art community fosters collaboration, feedback, and support. By prioritizing your well-being, you will be better able to connect with other artists and share your art with others. Waking up early to work in the studio, taking a long walk, doodling, or going to a workout class are all habits that create balance. Successful artists understand that inspiration isn’t on demand— we often have to seek it out. At the same time, our creativity thrives in an environment where both structure and spontaneity coexist. You may find solace in morning rituals that set the tone for a productive day, while others are more keen on late-night bursts of inspiration. Cultivating intentional habits helps artists keep their momentum. It also helps them avoid burnout and grow in their craft. Artists can thrive by balancing discipline and self-care. This way, their passion lasts longer. Creativity should be a joy, not a burden. Each artist's journey is as unique as the brush strokes on a canvas.

The Science Behind High Quality Art Materials

As artists, visiting museums and galleries is often one of our favorite activities. Being surrounded by so much creativity and history can evoke profound inspiration. I often notice the bright colors and glow of the Renaissance paintings. I wondered how works from so long ago still have such vibrant colors, while some modern works fade in a few years. Great Renaissance artists had a secret: they chose the best art materials, like those offered by Trekell Art Supplies. Renaissance artists used pigments from earth to paint their works. This is why they last so long. Mineral-based pigments and oil painting methods made colors brighter. Techniques like fresco and tempera also helped colors last longer. Let’s explore how chemistry, craftsmanship, and history influenced everything from how long colors last to brush strokes and what paper is made of. Color That Stands the Test of Time: The Chemistry of Pigments The ancient Egyptians used ground lapis lazuli to create the legendary Ultramarine Blue. These pigments are still regarded as some of the most expensive in history! Lapis lazuli's natural pigment is an excellent example of a timeless color. The Egyptians received a worthwhile return on their investment in these gems. But why do natural vs. synthetic pigments matter? Natural pigments, like Ultramarine Blue, come from minerals. Other natural pigments are plants, animal fat and bones, ochres, and earth materials. Natural pigments often have subtle, complex undertones because of impurities in the raw materials. They might face limited availability and color differences between batches, and some pigments can fade over time unless they are preserved correctly. Synthetic pigments, on the other hand, have been chemically engineered for consistency, vibrancy, and stability. They form from chemical reactions. These reactions create strong materials for paints, plastics, and more. Thus, they do not naturally occur like their counterparts. Synthetic pigments are designed for consistency. This makes them more stable and uniform in color across batches. They are also more affordable and provide a broader range of colors. Plus, they last longer. Brush Anatomy 101: The Science of Bristles & Strokes Before synthetic brushes, artists used squirrel hair for delicate watercolor washes and hog bristles for thick oil paint. Rembrandt was one of the most famous users of hog bristle brushes. He made dramatic, textured portraits with stiff, natural brushes that could hold a lot of paint and create bold impasto effects. Japanese and Chinese calligraphers often choose brushes made from wolf and goat hair. Artists love these brushes for their smooth strokes and sharp lines in ink painting! Each brush type has unique qualities that affect how paint is handled. Kolinsky Sable (Weasel Tail Hair) is both soft and springy. This gives you precise control and smooth paint release. Hog Bristle (Boar Hair) is tough and long-lasting. It holds plenty of paint and keeps its shape. This makes it great for bold impasto strokes. Some artists use soft and absorbent squirrel, goat, and camel hair. These brushes don't have the spring of sable. Yet, they provide a lovely flow for loose, expressive strokes. Synthetic bristles are certainly a modern innovation. They are made from nylon or polyester and engineered to mimic the qualities of natural hair. They are also more affordable and cruelty-free while still offering outstanding performance. Synthetic bristles are more durable and resistant to fraying or damage from solvents. Depending on the brush type, they work well with acrylics, oils, and watercolors. They are usually less absorbent than natural fibers. However, they provide reliable paint release with modern coatings. They offer reliable performance and avoid the ethical issues of using animal hair. Trekell Tip: Use a stiff bristle brush with thick-bodied acrylics or oils. Paper vs. Canvas: The Surface Science Behind Every Masterpiece Leonardo da Vinci's notebooks are a true sight for an artist. After 500+ years, his musings are still legible. Sketches on handmade, acid-free paper prove that quality materials can last forever. Paper weight and its material are essential. Different paper types absorb paint in unique ways! Think of paper weight like the thickness of a napkin vs. a cardboard box. Thin paper is excellent for light sketches, but warps if you use too much water. Medium paper is more substantial and suitable for watercolor and layering. Thick paper is super sturdy and won’t bend even with lots of water. artwork by Kate Zambrano Another element to consider is a paper's texture—how rough or smooth it feels. Smooth Paper (Hot Press) is excellent for fine details and bright colors. Textured with a subtle finish, Cold Press is the best all-around choice for watercolor. Super Textured (Rough Paper) adds cool, grainy effects to your painting. Artists have used textured paper for centuries. The earliest watercolor paintings date back to the 1400s. Artists created them on rough, handmade paper! This leads to our next paper element: What is your paper made of? Manufacturers make paper from either cotton, wood pulp, or a mix. 100% Cotton Paper is the best choice because it absorbs paint uniformly and is durable. Wood pulp paper is less expensive but can yellow and degrade over time. Mixed paper combines both types, striking a balance between quality and cost. Trekell Tip: If you want your paintings to stay bright and last for years, choose 100% cotton paper! Canvas is excellent for painting. But your colors might look dull or even crack later if you don't prepare them! What happens if you don't prime canvas? Paint soaks in too much, leading to faded colors. Your canvas can get damaged, and paint can eat away at the fabric. Your layers may also not stick well, making blending and building up color harder. But how can you prevent this and preserve your canvas? Enter Gesso. Gesso is like a protective coat for your canvas. It stops the paint from sinking in and helps your colors pop! Acrylic Gesso dries fast and works for both acrylic and oil paint. Oil-based Gesso takes a long time to dry. It gives a smooth, buttery surface. Famous artists like Rembrandt use it. Trekell Tip: Always apply 2–3 coats of gesso to your canvas before painting—it’ll make your work look better! Fade-Proof Your Art: The Science of Lightfastness and Permanence Have you ever noticed how old paintings, posters, or decals left in the sun start to look faded? UV light from the sun breaks down paint pigments. This causes colors to fade and lose their brightness. How does this happen? UV rays shine onto the paint, and the pigment molecules break apart. Over time, colors fade, especially reds and blues, which are more light-sensitive. Some of Van Gogh's bright reds have faded because they weren't lightfast. Don't let that happen to your art! Trekell Tip: Keep your paintings away from direct sunlight to make them last. You can also use lightfast paints that won’t fade! How do you pick a paint that won't fade? Paints come with ASTM lightfastness ratings, which tell you how well they hold up over time. When picking a paint, look for these ratings: ● ASTM I (Excellent Lightfastness) ● ASTM II (Very Good Lightfastness) ● ASTM III (Poor Lightfastness) Always check the ASTM rating and the archival labels on your paint tubes. If you want your artwork to last a lifetime, use ASTM I or II paints! The Legacy of Quality: Why Your Materials Matter Artists have always used science and innovation to improve their craft. Their passion helps them create timeless works. Colors have changed from the bright hues of the Egyptians and the Renaissance to today's synthetic choices. Each option is essential. The brush you use and the surface you paint on affect how long your work lasts and how vibrant it looks. Investing in quality materials is not only about looks. It's also about keeping your vision and history alive for future generations. Choosing lightfast pigments, sturdy brushes, or well-primed surfaces matters. Knowing how your tools work helps you make lasting art. Trekell Tip: The proper materials don’t improve art—they make it memorable. Ready to boost your art? Check out Trekell’s top-quality brushes, pigments, and surfaces. They’re made for artists who seek the best because their creativity deserves it.

Smooth vs. Textured Surfaces: The Great Canvas Debate

Every artist has their favorite surface. Some swear by a smooth, sleek base where every brushstroke glides effortlessly, while others live for the textured grip of the toothy canvas, where paint clings and builds dimension. So which is better: smooth or textured canvases? Whether you’re a seasoned painter or just beginning your creative journey, understanding the differences between these two canvas types can take your work to the next level, saving you frustration and helping you choose the right surface for your unique style. In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of smooth versus textured surfaces, explore how different mediums (like oils and watercolors) interact with each type, and introduce popular options such as wood canvas, oil canvas, watercolor board, and floater panels to help you decide which surface will best support your vision. What Makes a Canvas Smooth or Textured? At its core, a canvas’s texture is determined by its material and preparation. Typically made from cotton or linen, canvas is woven to various degrees of tightness. The primer applied on top also impacts the final feel. Smooth canvases: Achieved by tightly woven fibers, multiple layers of primer, and sanding between coats. These surfaces almost feel like paper or wood, ideal for artists who value precision. Textured canvases: Feature a rougher weave and fewer layers of primer, allowing more of the canvas’s natural tooth to show. The result? Visible texture that interacts dynamically with paint. Wood panels, like wood canvases or floater panels, naturally provide an ultra-smooth surface, whereas traditional stretched canvases and some watercolor boards might have more texture. (Pictured: Watercolor Hot press) Smooth Canvases: The Precision Lover’s Dream Smooth canvases and panels are preferred by artists who want complete control over their detailed work. These surfaces provide a flat, even foundation that allows for precise brushstrokes and clear lines that wouldn't be possible on textured surfaces. Artists choose smooth surfaces because they highlight technique and accuracy, making them ideal for work that requires fine detail and clean edges. Advantages of Smooth Surfaces: Crisp, clean lines: Fine brushes glide effortlessly without interruption. Controlled blending: Especially with mediums like oils, where subtle gradients are key. Easier for glazing: Thin layers of paint won’t catch on rough textures. Versatility across media: Works well for both oils and acrylics, and some even prep smooth wood panels for watercolor or ink. (Pictured: Quadruple Primed Linen) Wood canvas panels, in particular, provide an ultra-stable, smooth surface. Artists working in oil often gravitate toward canvas panels or boards that offer a sleek finish, primed to handle the heavy body of oil paint without losing detail. Popular Smooth Surface Options: Lead Linen Panels Quadruple Oil Primed Linen Panels Raw Wood Panels (Pictured: Lead Primed Linen) Textured Canvases: For the Expressive, Bold, and Spontaneous On the flip side, textured canvases are for artists who love energy, spontaneity, and dimensionality in their work. The natural grain and tooth of these surfaces become active participants in the creative process, catching pigment in unexpected ways and adding a built-in sense of depth that flat surfaces cannot provide. Artists who embrace textured canvases often find that the surface itself contributes to their artistic voice, encouraging a more dynamic relationship between medium and support that can lead to exciting, unplanned elements in the finished piece. (Pictured: Gesso Primed) Advantages of Textured Surfaces: Enhanced paint grip: Acrylics and oils adhere well to the tooth of textured canvas, allowing thicker applications and impasto techniques. Visible brushstrokes: Texture emphasizes gesture, ideal for expressive and abstract styles. Unique layering effects: Builds visual interest through varied thicknesses and paint interactions. More forgiving: Mistakes blend in more easily, making it perfect for beginners or loose styles. (Pictured: Oil Ground) Common Textured Surface Options: Gesso Panels Acrylic Primed Linen Panels Oil Primed Linen Panels Oil Ground Panels Medium Matters: Matching Surface to Paint Choosing between smooth and textured isn’t just about style—it also depends on the medium you’re using. Oil Paints (Oil Canvas, Wood Canvas, Floater Panel) Oil paints thrive on a variety of surfaces, but the texture influences the outcome: Smooth surfaces (like a sanded wood canvas or floater panel) are perfect for realism and portrait work. Paint sits evenly and blends smoothly. Textured surfaces grip thicker oil applications, perfect for impasto and more gestural work. Oil canvas boards are pre-primed specifically for oil painting, providing a stable base while offering either a smooth or moderately textured option. (Pictured: Oil Primed Linen) Acrylic Paints Acrylic paints are highly versatile. They adhere well to both smooth and textured surfaces. However: On smooth surfaces, acrylics dry faster, encouraging layering and glazing. On textured canvases, they can be applied thickly, adding dimension as they catch on the tooth. (Pictured: Acrylic Primed Linen) Watercolors (Watercolor Board) Watercolors behave differently depending on texture: Smooth watercolor boards (hot-press): Ideal for detailed linework, controlled washes, and botanical art. Textured watercolor boards (cold-press or rough): Enhance pigment pooling, granulation, and expressive techniques. (Pictured: Watercolor Cold Press) For artists who hate paper warping, watercolor boards provide extra stability while offering varying textures. Artist Preferences: Style, Medium & Mood Ultimately, the choice between smooth and textured canvases comes down to personal preference, creative goals, and the feel you want in your finished piece. Ask yourself: Do I want fine detail or bold brushstrokes? Am I layering glazes or applying thick paint? What mood or atmosphere am I trying to convey? Why Not Both? Here’s the secret most seasoned artists know: you don’t have to pick sides. Many artists switch between smooth and textured surfaces depending on the project. A detailed oil portrait? You might opt for a sanded wood canvas. An expressive, abstract acrylic piece? A toothy, textured stretched canvas might be calling your name. Working on a sleek, gallery-ready piece? A floater panel offers both aesthetics and functionality. Planning a watercolor illustration with vibrant, controlled washes? A smooth watercolor board could be your best friend. (Pictured: "Mini Panels" - Gesso Primed) Experimentation is key. Try different surfaces and pay attention to how they affect not just the look of your work, but the feel of your creative process. In the great canvas debate—smooth vs. textured—there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Both offer distinct advantages, and your choice depends on your artistic style, medium, and desired outcome. If you’re looking to level up your materials, consider adding a mix of wood canvases, oil canvases, floater panels, and watercolor boards to your studio. Having a variety of surfaces at your fingertips empowers you to adapt, explore, and push your creative limits. So, next time you’re staring down the art supply aisle or clicking “add to cart,” ask yourself: smooth, textured—or maybe a little of both?Ready to Put Your Surface Knowledge to Work? Trekell's Limited Edition Spring Panels offer the perfect canvas for your next masterpiece – whether you prefer buttery-smooth detail work or expressive textured techniques. Grab yours while supplies last!

5 Mistakes Ruining Your Art (And How the Right Tools Can Fix Them!)

We've all been there — those frustrating moments when our artwork just doesn't seem to come together. Whether it's a rogue brush hair or a stubborn canvas, these common painting pitfalls can seriously dampen our creativity. In this article, we'll break down the five biggest mistakes artists often make and offer practical solutions to help you avoid them. Get ready to level up your artist’s toolbox and have your creative juices flowing. 1. Using Cheap Brushes That Shed Like Crazy Every artist has experienced the frustration of a stray bristle ruining their work. While budget-friendly brushes might seem like a good option, their lower quality can lead to shedding and breakage. This not only affects the appearance of your art but also disrupts your creative flow. To avoid this issue, invest in professional-grade brushes like Trekell's Golden Taklon Brushes. These brushes are made from high-quality, sustainable materials and are designed to withstand hours of use without shedding. The Trekell Golden Taklon Series is a popular choice among artists for its smooth application and durability. 2. Ignoring Brush Care—Trust Us, It’s Important! Many artists have made the mistake of leaving their brushes soaking in water for extended periods. While it may seem harmless, this improper care can have detrimental effects. Water can warp the handles and damage the bristles, rendering your brushes unusable. Poor cleaning habits can lead to paint buildup, which affects the brush's performance. To ensure your brushes remain in optimal condition, treat them with the same care you give your artwork. Check out The Ultimate Guide to Expanding the Lifespan of Your Trekell Brushes trust us, it’s important. 3. Choosing the Wrong Brush for the Job Different brushes are designed for specific painting techniques. Using the wrong brush can hinder your ability to achieve desired effects. For example, a flat brush is ideal for bold strokes, while a round brush is better suited for fine details. To ensure you're using the right tool for the job, familiarize yourself with the various brush types available. Trekell offers a wide selection of brushes designed for different techniques, from blending and detailing to creating texture. Don’t skip The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Artist Brushes, it’s a great way to find the perfect brush to enhance your painting skills and achieve exceptional results. 4. Painting on Low-Quality Panels That Just Don’t Hold Paint Well Many artists have encountered the frustration of paint sliding off a canvas or panel, resulting in uneven finishes and a lack of vibrancy in their artwork. This often occurs when using low-quality panels made from materials that don't absorb paint well. While these panels may be budget-friendly, they can significantly hinder your creative process. To achieve a professional-looking finish and better control over texture and color application, invest in high-quality panels like Trekell's. Trekell's Raw Wood Panels are known for their smooth surface, durability, and eco-friendly nature, providing an ideal foundation for your artwork. 5. Not Replacing Old Brushes (Even When They’ve Seen Better Days) While it can be sentimental to hold onto old brushes, using worn-out tools can negatively impact your artwork. Over time, brushes lose their shape and flexibility, leading to sloppy lines, lack of control, and uneven paint application. To maintain the quality of your work, it's essential to regularly inspect your brushes for signs of wear and replace them when necessary. This small investment will ensure you always have fresh, reliable tools. By avoiding these common mistakes and investing in high-quality brushes and panels, you can elevate your artwork to new heights. Remember, the right tools can make a world of difference in your creative process. So, ditch the cheap brushes, take care of your tools, and invest in quality materials. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to creating stunning masterpieces that truly reflect your artistic vision.

5 Must-Have Tools in 2025 for Your Most Daring Art Yet

As we step into 2025, it’s time to elevate your artistic journey. Whether you’re sketching, painting, or exploring mixed media, having the right art supplies can transform your creative process and results. For artists like you, balancing affordability with professional quality is key. That’s why we’ve curated a list of must-have artist tools to help you create your most daring art yet. These tools combine versatility, quality, and inspiration, making them perfect additions to your artist starter kit. Let’s dive into the five essentials every aspiring artist should have in 2025. Why Trekell Tools Are Perfect for You As an emerging artist, you need tools that help you grow without breaking your budget. Trekell’s artist starter kits and professional-quality supplies offer everything you need to experiment, refine, and level up your craft. Eco-Friendly Options: Many products are sustainably crafted, aligning with your values. Community Support: Trekell’s artist community is always sharing inspiration and tips. Quality You Can Trust: Designed to last, giving you confidence in every stroke. Five Must-Have Artist Tools 1. Trekell’s Kate Zambrano Essential Charcoal Kit: Redefining Drawing Essentials If you love sketching and shading, the Kate Zambrano Essential Charcoal Kit is a game-changer. This thoughtfully designed kit includes everything you need to create striking, high-contrast works of art. Why It’s a Must-Have: Professional-Grade Quality: The kit features charcoal pencils and tools that glide smoothly on your medium, allowing you to create rich, dynamic textures. Versatility: Ideal for portraits, figure studies, or detailed illustrations. Compact and Convenient: Perfect for at-home use or taking to classes and workshops. How to Use It: Start with light strokes to outline your composition, then build depth with the variety of charcoal pencils included. Use the blending tools to achieve smooth gradients or dramatic contrasts that captivate your audience. Pro Tip: Pair this kit with Trekell’s textured panels to create pieces that command attention. The added grit of the panel surface enhances the effect of the charcoal, making your work even more dynamic. 2. Simkins’ Swords - Trekell Starter Artist Brush Set: Your Gateway to Mastery For painters, finding the right paintbrushes is critical. Enter Simkins’ Swords, a brush set curated by professional artist Greg “Craola” Simkins, designed for those ready to explore their boldest ideas. Why It’s a Must-Have: All-Inclusive Starter Set: Includes brushes for fine detailing, broad strokes, and everything in between. High-Quality Bristles: Designed to hold paint well and deliver precise strokes. Durability: Built to last, even with frequent use. How to Use It: Use the round brush for intricate details and fine lines and the filbert brush for blending and soft strokes. The variety in this artist starter kit ensures you have the tools to bring any vision to life. Pro Tip: Experiment with different mediums—these brushes work beautifully with acrylics, oils, and even gouache. Take time to clean and condition them after each session to keep them in pristine condition. 3. Trekell Smooth and Textured Canvases: The Right Foundation for Every Vision The canvas you choose can make or break your artwork. Trekell’s smooth and textured canvases offer the perfect foundation for different artistic styles. Why It’s a Must-Have: Smooth Canvases: Ideal for fine details and intricate designs. Textured Canvases: Perfect for bold, gritty strokes and adding depth to your work. Premium Quality: Durable surfaces that stand up to multiple layers of paint and experimentation. How to Use It: Pair smooth canvases with fine-tip brushes for detailed work or textured canvases with bold strokes to create striking contrasts. Pro Tip: Keep both types of canvases on hand to experiment with how your style evolves across different surfaces. 4. Trekell Altar Panels: For Artists Who Dare to Be Different Stand out with Trekell’s Altar Panels, designed to inspire creative exploration. These unique panels feature distinctive shapes that bring your art to life in ways traditional canvases can’t. Why It’s a Must-Have: Unique Shapes: Pushes the boundaries of conventional art presentation. Durable Build: High-quality wood panels that can handle various mediums. Perfect for Display: These panels turn your work into a conversation piece. How to Use It: Can be used with any media! Be sure to properly prep to maximize the impact of the Altar Panel’s unconventional shape. Pro Tip: Use these panels for series or collections, making your work instantly recognizable at galleries or art fairs. 5. Trekell Palette Knives: Elevate Your Textures For adding texture and depth, a great set of palette knives is essential. Trekell’s palette knives are designed for artists experimenting with layering, scraping, and sculpting. Why It’s a Must-Have: Versatile: Great for mixing colors, creating textures, and even applying paint directly to the canvas. Durable and Ergonomic: Designed for long-lasting use and comfort. Multi-Medium Use: Works well with acrylics, oils, and mixed media. How to Use It: Start with simple strokes to layer colors and build texture. Use the edge of the knife for fine lines or the flat side for broader application. Pro Tip: Combine palette knife techniques with bold brushstrokes from the Simkins’ Swords for a unique blend of precision and spontaneity. How to Get Started with Your 2025 Art Kit Ready to assemble your 2025 artist starter kit? Here’s a simple guide: Stock Up on Essentials: Start with the Kate Zambrano Charcoal Kit and Simkins’ Swords Brush Set. Choose Your Canvas: Experiment with smooth and textured options to discover your preference. Add Specialty Tools: Include Altar Panels and palette knives for creative experimentation. Organize Your Space: Build a DIY studio that inspires your creativity. Create and Share: Take the leap and share your art with the world on social media. Make 2025 Your Most Creative Year Yet With Trekell’s tools, 2025 is the year you can fully embrace your creative potential. The Kate Zambrano Essential Charcoal Kit and Simkins’ Swords Brush Set are just the beginning of your artistic evolution. Equip yourself with the right tools, experiment boldly, and watch your vision come to life. Your artist journey starts here—because your most daring art is yet to come. Ready to start? Explore Trekell’s full range of tools and make 2025 your most creative year yet.

How to Set Up a DIY Art Studio (Without Breaking the Bank)

Setting up your art studio is an exciting step in your creative journey, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re an aspiring oil painter, an acrylic enthusiast, or a watercolor artist, creating a functional and inspiring space at home is possible—even on a budget. With the right setup, affordable tools, and smart storage solutions, you can turn any corner of your home into a personal art sanctuary. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to build a budget-friendly DIY art studio, including how to choose the best workspace, essential supplies for different types of painting, and how to make the most of your setup. Finding the Right Space You don’t need a massive studio to create great art—what matters most is having a dedicated space where you can focus and let your creativity flow. Even a small corner of a room, a foldable desk, or a well-organized cart with your essentials can become the perfect setup for making art. With the right tools, smart storage solutions, and a bit of personalization, any space can be transformed into a functional and inspiring creative haven. Here are some options for setting up an art studio in different home environments: Small Apartment or Shared Space: Look for a quiet corner, a section of your bedroom, or even a closet-turned-studio (a “cloffice”). A foldable table or desk can provide enough workspace. Garage or Basement: Great for oil painters or anyone working with strong-smelling solvents since ventilation is key. Outdoor Setup: If you love painting landscapes, a backyard or patio can double as a workspace—just make sure you have weatherproof storage for your supplies. Spare Room or Unused Nook: An underutilized dining area or guest room can transform into the perfect creative space. Key Features of a Functional Studio Space: Good Lighting: Natural light is best, but daylight-balanced LED lamps work great for nighttime painting. Ventilation: Especially important for oil painters using solvents or spray fixatives. Storage Solutions: Utilize shelves, pegboards, and rolling carts to keep your supplies organized. Essential Art Supplies for Every Budget Your art studio should include all the essential supplies you need to create while staying within your budget. Prioritizing versatile tools, such as a solid set of brushes, quality paint, and a reliable painting surface, allows you to maximize creativity without overspending. You can build a fully functional studio without breaking the bank by choosing budget-friendly alternatives, repurposing household items for storage, and gradually expanding your collection. Surfaces to Paint On: Choosing the Right Panels & Paper Different painting techniques require different surfaces, and Trekell offers a variety of affordable, high-quality panels to suit your needs. For Oil Painters: Opt for Gesso Panels or Linen Panels, which provide a smooth, primed surface for rich, layered paintings. For Acrylic Painters: Wood panels or Trekell’s Altar Panels are great for bold, textured work. Acrylic also adheres well to both traditional canvas and mixed-media boards. For Watercolor Artists: Watercolor blocks or cold-press watercolor paper are best for absorbing water and pigment without warping. For Still Life & Live Model Artists: Floater panels allow for dramatic compositions and create a professional gallery look. Must-Have Budget-Friendly Painting Tools Easel Alternatives: A secondhand easel or DIY tabletop stand can work just as well as a professional one. Even propped-up panels or clipboards can be great for small-scale work. Brushes: Invest in a versatile brush set, like the Stephanie Buscema Brush Set, which is perfect for gouache, acrylic, and mixed media. For oils, opt for high-quality hog bristle brushes for texture. Palette & Mixing Tools: A simple glass plate or a repurposed plastic container lid makes a great budget-friendly palette. Paints & Mediums: Start with primary colors and mix your own shades to save money. Acrylic and gouache are affordable beginner options, while oil paints require a bit more investment. Setting Up for Different Types of Painting Depending on your style and medium, your studio setup may look slightly different to accommodate your creative process. An oil painter might need a well-ventilated space with sturdy easels and ample drying racks, while a watercolor artist benefits from a clean, clutter-free desk with easy access to water and paper towels. Acrylic painters may prefer a setup that allows for quick layering and drying, with a stay-wet palette to keep paints from drying out too fast. No matter your medium, designing a space that supports your workflow will make creating more enjoyable and efficient. Here’s how to optimize your space for different types of painting: Oil Painting on a Budget Oil painting requires a few specialized supplies, but you can keep it affordable with these tips: Use Gesso Panels instead of stretched canvas—they’re durable and provide a professional finish. Thin your paints with linseed oil instead of expensive mediums. Use old jars for cleaning brushes and store leftover paint in airtight containers to extend its life. Ventilation is crucial—work near a window or use a fan to disperse fumes from solvents. Acrylic Painting Setup Acrylic is one of the best budget-friendly mediums since it dries quickly and requires fewer materials. Choose Wood Panels for a sturdy surface. DIY a stay-wet palette by using a shallow plastic container lined with damp paper towels to keep your paints from drying out too quickly. Experiment with layering to create texture without expensive modeling pastes. Watercolor Painting on a Budget Cold-press watercolor paper is essential—buy in bulk to save money. Use a ceramic plate as a palette instead of buying a plastic one. A single good brush can go a long way; a size 10 round brush is versatile enough for most techniques. Mix your colors instead of buying an extensive range of paints. Still Life & Live Model Painting Use Trekell’s Floater Panels for a gallery-ready presentation of your still-life work. DIY your model lighting setup by using desk lamps with daylight bulbs. Get creative with props—household objects make great still-life subjects. Smart Art Supply Storage Hacks for a Small Studio Keeping a small art space organized is key to maintaining a productive and stress-free creative environment. When your tools, paints, and canvases are easily accessible, you can focus on your art rather than wasting time searching for supplies. Simple storage solutions like pegboards, rolling carts, and labeled containers can maximize space and keep everything in order, making your studio feel functional and inspiring rather than cluttered and overwhelming. Here are some budget-friendly ideas: Pegboards for Vertical Storage: Hang brushes, palettes, and reference images on a pegboard to save desk space. Rolling Carts: Store paints, brushes, and other materials in a small rolling cart that can be tucked away when not in use. DIY Drying Racks: Use old cookie cooling racks or dish-drying racks to dry paintings efficiently. Repurpose Household Items: Mason jars for brush storage, shoeboxes for extra paint tubes, and binder clips for hanging paper. Creating the Right Atmosphere for Creativity Your studio should be more than just a workspace—it should be a place that sparks inspiration, fuels creativity, and feels like an extension of your artistic vision. Surround yourself with colors, textures, and objects that motivate you, whether that’s hanging up your favorite artwork, pinning reference images to a mood board, or incorporating natural light to brighten the space. Keep your most-used supplies within reach to encourage spontaneity, and consider adding personal touches like plants, music, or scented candles to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Whether your space is a full studio, a cozy corner, or a mobile setup, it should be a retreat where you can immerse yourself in the creative process without distractions. A well-designed studio doesn’t just support your workflow—it energizes you, helps you stay consistent, and makes creating feel effortless. Here’s how to enhance your space: Mood Lighting: Soft lighting or fairy lights can add warmth without breaking the bank. Inspirational Decor: Hang up reference images, favorite art prints, or a vision board. Playlist or Podcast Setup: A small Bluetooth speaker or headphones can keep you focused while painting. Start Small, Dream Big Building your DIY art studio doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With smart choices, a few essential supplies, and creative use of space, you can design a functional and inspiring workspace no matter your budget. Whether you’re working on oil paintings, acrylic abstracts, delicate watercolor washes, or capturing a live model’s expression, having a dedicated art space will help you stay focused, organized, and motivated to create. Ready to stock up on affordable, high-quality paint supplies? Check out Trekell’s panels and brush sets to elevate your DIY studio without overspending. Your art deserves a space where it can thrive—so start building your dream studio today! Shop Trekell’s High-Quality Yet Affordable Art Supplies 🖌️ Explore Panels & Surfaces 🖌️ Find the Perfect Brush Set

Daring Artists Who Pushed Boundaries: How Having the Right Artist Supplies Changes the World

It’s no secret that Trekell has a soft spot for rebels, renegades, and weirdos—the artists who see the world differently and challenge us to do the same. These are the visionaries who refuse to follow the rules and who create not for approval but because they have to share their creativity. Their daring visions and fearless creativity have reshaped the art world, proving that true artistry isn’t about fitting in—it’s about standing out. Whether through bold brushstrokes, unconventional materials, or defiant subject matter, these artists inspire generations to break free from convention and make their mark in ways that only they can. Five groundbreaking artists—Jean-Michel Basquiat, Stuart Semple, Kara Walker, Keith Haring, and Yayoi Kusama—dared to push boundaries and redefine what art can be. Their fearless creativity, unconventional techniques, and willingness to challenge societal norms have left an undeniable impact on the art world. Read on to learn how to channel their boldness into your work, helping you break free from limitations and create art that truly speaks to who you are. Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Raw Power of Expression Using Acrylic Paints Jean-Michel Basquiat shattered artistic conventions with his raw, graffiti-inspired style that boldly blended text, symbols, and vivid imagery. Emerging from the vibrant streets of New York City in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Basquiat transitioned from tagging cryptic messages as part of the SAMO duo to becoming one of the most celebrated artists of his generation. His work delved deep into themes of race, identity, and power structures, offering unapologetic commentary on social and cultural inequalities. The recurring use of his iconic crown motif elevated Black figures, celebrating their strength, resilience, and humanity while challenging historical narratives that sought to diminish their contributions. Through his chaotic yet deliberate compositions, Basquiat captured the complexities of contemporary life, creating art that was as intellectually stimulating as it was visually striking. His defiant approach not only redefined what art could be but also carved out a space for marginalized voices within the elite art world, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire rebellion and innovation. How to Push Boundaries Like Basquiat Embrace imperfection: Basquiat’s work was intentionally messy and chaotic—proof that perfection isn’t the goal of great art. Let go of the need for polish and embrace your raw, unfiltered voice. Tell your story: Basquiat drew on his personal experiences and cultural heritage to create deeply authentic work. Use your art to explore your narrative. Combine mediums: Experiment with mixing paint, charcoal, and text, just as Basquiat did, to add layers of meaning to your work. Trekell Tip: The Stephanie Buscema Brush Set is ideal for layering bold strokes and intricate details, helping you achieve the textured, layered look that Basquiat championed. Stuart Semple: The Champion of Accessibility in Professional Art Supplies Stuart Semple doesn’t just create art—he champions creativity as a universal right, breaking down barriers that often make art feel exclusive or inaccessible. Renowned for his vibrant, innovative pigments and his spirited feud with Anish Kapoor over Vantablack, Semple has used his platform to challenge elitism in the art world. By developing products like the Pinkest Pink, Black 3.0, and LIT (the glowiest glow-in-the-dark pigment), he has redefined how artists can engage with color, offering these materials to anyone who shares his belief in open access—except Kapoor, of course. Semple’s mission goes beyond pigments; it’s about democratizing creativity and ensuring artists of all backgrounds have the tools they need to express themselves. His brand, Culture Hustle, is built on the philosophy that art supplies should be affordable, high-quality, and ethically produced, empowering creators everywhere. Semple’s work also reflects his playful, thought-provoking perspective, blending activism, humor, and artistic experimentation. Through his bold initiatives and colorful provocations, Stuart Semple has not only created a space for artistic rebellion but has inspired countless others to embrace their creativity without limits. How to Push Boundaries Like Semple Make a statement: Semple uses his work to critique exclusivity and elitism in the art world. Don’t be afraid to use your art as a platform for change. Experiment with color: From glow-in-the-dark pigments to the Pinkest Pink, Semple’s use of vibrant color is unmatched. Play with bold, unexpected palettes to make your work pop. Share your tools: Semple believes art supplies should be for everyone. Share tips, tricks, and even materials with your community to inspire collaboration and creativity. Trekell Tip: Pair the Stephanie Buscema Brush Set with Semple’s bold pigments for a colorful, statement-making masterpiece. Kara Walker: Confronting History with Courage and Fine Detail Brush Sets Kara Walker’s art demands attention, ignites conversation, and challenges deeply ingrained perspectives. Best known for her striking black-and-white silhouettes, she uses stark contrast to depict complex narratives about race, gender, and power dynamics. Through historical imagery and exaggerated stereotypes, Walker exposes the painful realities of oppression, forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable truths that are often glossed over in mainstream history. Her large-scale installations and cut-paper works feel both haunting and poetic, blending beauty with brutality in a way that lingers long after the first glance. Beyond her silhouettes, Walker has expanded her work into painting, sculpture, and film, further pushing boundaries in contemporary art. Her thought-provoking pieces, like A Subtlety, or the Marvelous Sugar Baby—a massive sugar-coated sphinx-like sculpture—serve as bold critiques of systemic racism and exploitation. Walker’s fearless approach to storytelling has made her one of the most influential artists of our time, proving that art isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a powerful tool for change. By challenging history’s sanitized versions, she invites artists and audiences alike to question, reflect, and engage in deeper conversations about identity and justice. How to Push Boundaries Like Walker Address tough topics: Walker’s work invites discussion and reflection. Use your art to explore the issues you care about, even if they’re challenging or controversial. Play with contrast: Walker’s stark black-and-white silhouettes emphasize the tension in her themes. Experiment with high contrast to create striking, thought-provoking visuals. Tell untold stories: Walker amplifies marginalized voices and narratives. Consider whose stories you can tell through your art. Trekell Tip: The fine detail brushes in the Stephanie Buscema Brush Set are perfect for creating intricate silhouettes and high-contrast designs inspired by Walker’s work. Keith Haring: Unique Canvases Means Art for the People Keith Haring’s vibrant, cartoon-like figures weren’t just a stylistic choice—they were a statement. By using bold lines, bright colors, and universally recognizable imagery, he ensured that his art could be understood and appreciated by people of all backgrounds. From the bustling subways of New York to large-scale public murals, Haring transformed everyday spaces into galleries for the people, making art an accessible and interactive experience. His spontaneous subway drawings, often created in chalk on blank advertising panels, turned commuters into an audience and the city itself into a canvas. He believed that art shouldn’t be confined to museums and elite circles but, instead, should be a shared, democratic experience. Beyond his playful aesthetic, Haring’s work carried powerful messages about social justice, human rights, and activism. He used his platform to advocate for AIDS awareness, LGBTQ+ rights, and anti-apartheid efforts, embedding urgent calls for change within his lively compositions. Works like Ignorance = Fear, Silence = Death became iconic rallying cries in the fight against the AIDS crisis, proving that art could be both joyful and deeply political. Even today, Haring’s legacy continues to inspire artists to use their creativity as a force for good, reminding us that art isn’t just about self-expression—it’s about connection, awareness, and action. How to Push Boundaries Like Haring Create for everyone: Haring believed art should be inclusive. Think about how your work can reach and resonate with a broad audience. Simplify your visuals: Haring’s clean lines and bright colors conveyed big messages with minimal elements. Focus on strong, clear designs to make an impact. Infuse activism into your art: Use your creativity to shine a light on causes you’re passionate about, just as Haring did. Trekell Tip: The versatility of the Stephanie Buscema Brush Set makes it easy to create bold, clean lines and vibrant patterns inspired by Haring’s work. Yayoi Kusama: The Queen of Turning Art Boards into Infinity Yayoi Kusama’s mesmerizing installations and obsession with polka dots have made her one of the most recognizable and influential artists of our time. Her signature motifs—dots, mirrors, and repetition—stem from personal experiences and hallucinations she has had since childhood, transforming what could be isolating into something universally captivating. Whether through massive pumpkin sculptures, painted canvases, or immersive installations, Kusama’s work invites viewers to step into an infinite, dreamlike universe where boundaries between self and space dissolve. The repetition of patterns, particularly her signature polka dots, creates a sense of vastness and interconnectedness, reinforcing her belief that everything and everyone is part of a larger cosmic whole. At the heart of Kusama’s work is exploring identity, mental health, and the human desire for connection. Her Infinity Mirror Rooms, some of the most famous immersive art experiences in the world, places viewers inside a seemingly endless field of glowing lights, reflecting their image back at them in an endless loop. These installations blur the lines between fantasy and reality, self and environment, forcing visitors to question their place in the universe. Despite the whimsy of her work, Kusama’s art often grapples with themes of isolation and the search for meaning. Through her boundless creativity and fearless self-expression, she has not only reshaped the contemporary art world but has also shown how personal struggles can be transformed into something extraordinary and deeply resonant. How to Push Boundaries Like Kusama Embrace repetition: Kusama’s use of repeated patterns, like dots and nets, creates a hypnotic effect. Experiment with repetition to give your work a rhythmic, meditative quality. Think big: Kusama’s larger-than-life installations prove that art doesn’t have to fit within a frame. Consider how your work can interact with its environment. Be unapologetically yourself: Kusama’s art reflects her unique perspective and life experiences. Let your individuality shine through in your creations. Trekell Tip: Use the Stephanie Buscema Brush Set to create fine, consistent patterns or build large-scale designs inspired by Kusama’s intricate, otherworldly style. How the Stephanie Buscema Brush Set Empowers Bold Art The Stephanie Buscema Brush Set is a gateway to fearless creativity, designed for artists who embrace bold expression and imaginative storytelling. Inspired by Buscema’s signature style—where vivid color, intricate details, and playful compositions come to life—this set offers the perfect balance of versatility and precision. Whether you’re working with gouache, acrylics, or mixed media, these brushes allow you to experiment freely, layering textures and refining details with confidence. For artists looking to push boundaries and develop a style that’s uniquely their own, this set is more than a collection of tools—it’s an invitation to create without limits. Why It’s a Must-Have: Precision and Versatility: Whether you’re layering color like Basquiat, creating high-contrast silhouettes like Walker, or designing bold patterns like Kusama, this set has the right brush for the job. Durability: Trekell’s commitment to quality ensures these brushes can handle even your most daring projects. Artist-Inspired: Designed with Stephanie Buscema’s unique style in mind, these brushes are perfect for gouache, acrylic, and other mediums. Trekell Tip: Pair them with Trekell’s Puzzle or Alter canvases to give your work an even more distinctive edge. Dare to Create, Dare to Rebel With Trekell Premium Art Supplies The world needs more rebels—artists who push boundaries, challenge norms, and tell stories that matter. Whether you’re inspired by Basquiat’s raw emotion, Semple’s accessible art, Walker’s courage, Haring’s activism, or Kusama’s surreal vision, the most important thing is to stay true to your voice. With tools like the Stephanie Buscema Brush Set and our unique canvases, you can bring your boldest ideas to life. So grab your brushes, embrace your inner renegade, and create something unforgettable. Ready to get started? Shop the Stephanie Buscema Brush Set now and join the ranks of daring artists who refuse to play by the rules.

How to Sell More Art in 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to Social Media

Selling art is no longer just about gallery exhibitions or local markets—it’s about using the power of social media to build a brand, share your creative journey, and connect directly with collectors and admirers. Apps like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are visual playgrounds where artists can showcase their work, engage with fans, and turn followers into buyers. If you’re ready to make 2025 your most profitable year yet, it’s time to up your game on social media. This guide will walk you through creating content that resonates, sharing your story authentically, and turning those double-taps into sales. Why Social Media is a Game-Changer for Artists Selling art without the internet can feel like an uphill battle. Artists often have to rely on galleries, art fairs, or local shops to get their work seen—and those spaces aren’t always easy to get into. Plus, if you’re limited to your local area, you’re missing out on reaching people who might love your art but live miles away. Without digital tools, promotion becomes old-school: handing out business cards, setting up booths, or waiting for word of mouth to spread. It’s exhausting, expensive, and sometimes slow. And since you’re only selling during events or open hours, there’s no way for people to browse or buy your work whenever inspiration strikes. In a world where most people scroll for their next favorite piece of art, relying only on in-person sales can mean your art stays hidden from the collectors who’d connect with it most. Social media breaks down traditional barriers between artists and buyers, allowing you to: Reach a global audience: Your work can be seen by art lovers across the world. Build a personal connection: By sharing your creative process, collectors feel more connected to your work. Control your narrative: You have the power to tell your story in your own words. Sell directly: Instead of relying on middlemen, you can showcase pieces for sale directly to your audience. But building an online presence isn’t just about posting finished pieces—it’s about creating engaging, valuable content that draws people in and builds trust. Step 1: Create Engaging Content That Aspires The first step to selling art on social media is creating content that grabs attention, sparks curiosity, and makes people stop mid-scroll. But you also need to include content that your followers can’t help but share with their friends. Think about it: when someone sends your post to a friend, you’ve just reached a whole new audience organically. To make this happen, focus on posts that tell a story, show something unexpected, or offer a behind-the-scenes look at your creative process. Eye-catching photos, time-lapse videos, and thoughtful captions that invite conversation can take your content from “cool” to “must-see.” And don’t be afraid to add humor, emotion, or a memorable tip that makes someone say, “You’ve got to check this out!” The more your content is shared, the more your art gets discovered—and that’s where real momentum starts. In a crowded feed, standing out isn’t just about being seen—it’s about creating something worth passing on. 1.1 Showcase Your Creative Process People love seeing what happens behind the scenes. Share time-lapses of you sketching, mixing paint, or working on a canvas to give followers a glimpse into your world. Content Ideas: Time-lapse videos of a painting from blank canvas to finished masterpiece. “A day in the studio” photo carousel featuring your workspace, supplies, and works-in-progress. Snapshots of your palette mid-project to show off your color choices. Pro Tip: Use heart-shaped canvases, like Trekell’s Anatomical Heart Panel or Broken Heart Floater Panel, to make your process even more eye-catching and memorable. 1.2 Show the Evolution of Your Art Sharing before-and-after content is a great way to highlight your growth and creativity. Content Ideas: “Before vs. After” posts showing early sketches compared to the final piece. Swipe-through posts showing layers of progress. Add context: What inspired the changes or adjustments? What emotions did you channel into the final work? Bonus Engagement Tip: Ask your followers which version they prefer to spark conversation and increase comments. 1.3 Teach and Inspire Become a valuable resource for your audience by sharing tips and insights about your art process. Examples: “How to Blend Acrylics for a Soft, Gradient Background” “3 Ways to Add Depth and Texture Using Palette Knives” “My Top 5 Tools for Shading with Charcoal” Posts like these position you as an expert and keep your audience coming back for more. Step 2: Share Authentically and Build Your Personal Brand Customers care about more than the finished product these days. They care about values. Your audience wants to know the person behind the work, which means your story is just as important as your art. 2.1 Share Your Why Why do you create? Is it to tell stories, process emotions, or inspire others? Share your purpose and make your audience feel connected to your creative journey. Post Ideas: A personal post explaining what inspired your latest series. A reflective caption about a challenge you’ve overcome as an artist. Pro Tip: Vulnerability builds trust. Don’t be afraid to share your struggles, breakthroughs, and triumphs. 2.2 Let Your Personality Shine People buy from artists they feel connected to. Show your personality by sharing relatable moments—whether it’s messy palettes, coffee-fueled workdays, or quirky studio habits. Ideas for Fun, Relatable Content: A reel showing your art “failures” set to upbeat music. Memes about the ups and downs of being an artist. A “what’s on my desk” post highlighting your tools and favorite snacks. Step 3: Build Engagement and Connect with Your Audience Social media is about conversation, not just broadcasting. To build a loyal following that’s ready to buy, focus on interaction and connection. 3.1 Post Interactive Stories and Polls Instagram and Facebook Stories are perfect for engaging with your audience in real-time. Post Ideas: Polls: “Which heart-shaped panel should I paint on next? ❤️ 🍭 💔 🫀” Q&A sessions: “Ask me anything about my art process!” Story challenges: “Share a photo of your workspace and tag me!” Pro Tip: Use the link feature to drive traffic directly to your shop or latest blog post. 3.2 Respond to Comments and DMs Your followers want to feel seen and valued. Responding to their comments and messages helps build a stronger connection and keeps them coming back. Engagement Tip: Use their names in your replies for a more personal touch, and ask follow-up questions to keep the conversation going. Step 4: Turn Followers into Buyers Once you’ve built a strong presence and engaged your audience, it’s time to convert that engagement into actual sales. While likes, comments, and shares may feel good, they’re just vanity metrics if they don’t lead to action. Your goal is to create a clear path for your audience to support you by purchasing your art. This means being intentional with your posts—showcase available pieces with compelling descriptions, share the stories behind your work to build an emotional connection, and include clear, easy-to-follow calls to action (CTAs). Whether it’s “DM me to claim this piece” or “Click the link in bio to shop,” don’t be afraid to guide your followers toward becoming collectors. After all, they’re following you because they’re interested. Here are easy to follow steps to make it easy for buyers to say “yes”: 4.1 Create Eye-Catching Product Posts Your product posts should be as beautiful as your art. Use natural light, clean backdrops, and close-ups to show the detail and texture of your pieces. Post Example: A stunning flat-lay of your finished artwork alongside the tools you used, like the Greg Simkins Brush Set or the Kate Zambrano Essential Charcoal Kit. Include a compelling Call-to-Action (CTA): “This piece is available—DM me to claim it!” or “Tap the link in bio to browse more.” 4.2 Use Limited-Time Offers Create urgency by offering limited-time promotions or exclusive prints. Examples: “This Valentine’s Day, get free shipping on all heart-shaped canvas pieces! Offer ends [insert date].” “Only 5 prints left—once they’re gone, they’re gone!” 4.3 Tell Stories Behind the Art When sharing a piece for sale, explain its inspiration, creative process, and emotional meaning. Post Idea: “This piece, ‘Resilience,’ was painted on a Broken Heart Floater Panel to symbolize strength after loss. I used a combination of acrylic and metallic paint to highlight the cracks as a reminder that even broken things can shine. Available now—DM for details.” Step 5: Leverage Social Media Features to Boost Visibility 5.1 Hashtags and Keywords Use relevant hashtags to reach new audiences: #ArtForSale #HeartShapedCanvas #TrekellTools #ArtProcess Avoid using only generic tags—mix in niche hashtags specific to your medium, style, and name. 5.2 Cross-Platform Sharing Maximize your reach by repurposing content for different platforms: Turn Instagram reels into TikToks. Share behind-the-scenes photos on Pinterest boards. Use YouTube shorts for quick tutorials. 5.3 Collaborate with Other Creators Partnering with other artists or influencers can expose your work to their audience and build credibility. Bonus Tip: Track What Works Use platform analytics to track which posts get the most engagement and which lead to sales. This will help you refine your strategy and focus on content that performs well. But remember, not every piece of content is meant to get thousands of likes. Some posts are meant for likes, some posts are meant for shares, and others are for sales. Be sure to include a healthy mix of each post type and measure their success accordingly. Your 2025 Social Media Blueprint for Success Selling art in 2025 is about more than showcasing finished pieces—it’s about storytelling, connection, and creativity. By creating engaging content, sharing authentically, and building relationships with your audience, you can turn your social media presence into a thriving art business. Ready to start? Grab your brushes, choose your panel, and share your story—your next collector could be just one post away.

How to Capture Raw Emotion in Your Art (With Heart-Shaped Canvases!)

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner—a time filled with love, loss, nostalgia, and everything in between. But what if your art could be the truest love letter of all? Whether you’re celebrating joy, resilience, or the complexity of love in general, your canvas can become a stage for all that raw emotion. And when that canvas is shaped like a heart? *chef’s kiss* It adds a layer of meaning before the first brushstroke even touches the surface. For thoughtful creators who value eco-friendly products, meaningful designs, and expressive storytelling, Trekell’s heart-shaped wooden canvases are the perfect way to turn feelings into unforgettable works of art. These wood art panels—from the Symbolic Heart Panel to the dramatic Broken Heart Panel—help tell your story in ways a traditional canvas can’t. Let’s explore how to create your most daring, emotion-filled art this Valentine’s season using heart-shaped art panels for painting and the right paint supplies. Why Heart-Shaped Wooden Canvases for Emotional Storytelling? A heart-shaped wooden canvas carries an immediate emotional weight—it’s instantly recognizable as a symbol of love, vulnerability, and everything in between. It invites viewers to feel connected to the story you’re telling. Anatomical Heart Panel: Ideal for storytelling rooted in reality and depth. This raw, realistic shape is perfect for pieces that explore both the beauty and fragility of the human experience. Symbolic Heart Panel: Clean and simple, this classic shape is perfect for creating softer, romantic narratives or minimalist linework. Broken Heart Panel: This split-panel design visually represents resilience, healing, and transformation—making it perfect for abstract or symbolic artwork. A panel creates the effect that your artwork is “floating” within its frame, giving it a modern, gallery-worthy look. For heart-shaped panels, this added depth can make your piece feel like it’s glowing from within—a fitting metaphor for any story about love and hope. Candy Heart Panel: Inspired by the iconic candy hearts we all know and love, the Candy Heart Panel is a great choice for adding fun and whimsy to your Valentine’s Day art. Use personalized messages or colorful pop art to embrace creativity with a lighthearted twist. Pro Tip: Use metallic accents like gold or copper to catch the light and add dimension to the edges of your panel for a polished finish. Choosing the Right Paint Supplies for Valentine’s-Inspired Art The materials you use can heighten your artistic expression. Here’s how to pick the right paint supplies for your heart-shaped masterpiece: 1. Acrylics for Bold Colors and Quick Layers Acrylic paint is an excellent choice for heart-shaped wood art panels because of its flexibility and fast drying time. You can layer vibrant reds and soft pinks to create dreamy effects or bold, graphic shapes. Color Palette Tip: Experiment with romantic hues like blush pink, deep crimson, and peach, or go bold with black and gold for a dramatic statement. 2. Oils for Luxurious Depth and Soft Blends If you want to create smooth blends and glowing highlights, oil paints are your go-to. Their slow drying time gives you the freedom to capture soft transitions between light and shadow. Technique Tip: On the Broken Heart Panel, use glazing techniques to enhance the “cracks” in the design, symbolizing strength in vulnerability. 3. Mixed Media for Unique Personalization For a truly distinctive piece, consider incorporating mixed media. Use ink, pastels, or pressed flowers to add unexpected textures and details. The Kate Zambrano Charcoal Kit is ideal for adding contrast and softness to your work. Mixed Media Tip: Draw delicate illustrations in charcoal over acrylic backgrounds to add intimacy and detail, perfect for symbolic love letters or tribute pieces. How to Create Raw, Emotion-Filled Art for Valentine’s Day Step 1: Set an Emotional Intention Ask yourself, “What emotion do I want to express?” Write down a word or phrase that captures your theme—whether it’s joy, forgiveness, or heartache—and keep it visible as you work. Creative Exercise: Build a small inspiration board with color swatches, poems, and photos that evoke your chosen emotion. Step 2: Choose the Right Panel Select a wooden canvas that aligns with your narrative: Symbolic Heart Panel: Perfect for soft, romantic pieces. Anatomical Heart Panel: Great for realism and emotional portraiture. Broken Heart Panel: Ideal for pieces about resilience and transformation. Candy Heart Panel: Perfect for whimsy and sweet sentiments. Step 3: Sketch Your Composition Use charcoal or pencil to lightly sketch your design. Focus on using shapes and lines that evoke emotion—soft curves for calmness, sharp edges for tension. Pro Tip: On the Broken Heart Panel, use the split sections to emphasize contrast, such as light versus dark or chaos versus serenity. Step 4: Build Layers with Paint Supplies Start with thin, translucent layers of paint to build depth. Add more opaque layers where you want to draw attention, like the focal point of a portrait or the center of an abstract piece. Fine Detail Brushes: Use small brushes for highlights and intricate work. Flat Brushes: Ideal for sweeping background colors. Palette Knives: Perfect for adding rough textures and sculpted layers to your art. Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches Incorporate thoughtful details that align with your story. Whether it’s metallic accents to symbolize warmth or splatters of paint for spontaneity, make your finishing touches count. Pro Tip: Use a panel to frame your heart-shaped art for an elevated, gallery-ready look. Ideas for Valentine’s-Inspired Art on Heart-Shaped Panels Portrait of Resilience Paint a layered portrait on the Anatomical Heart Panel, highlighting the complexities of love—both tender and fierce. Add muted grays or deep reds for emotional weight. Minimalist Love Letter Create a simple yet meaningful design on the Symbolic Heart Panel using delicate linework and a soft pastel color palette. Incorporate a favorite quote or poem to personalize the piece. Abstract Healing Journey Use the Broken Heart Panel to symbolize recovery and growth. Experiment with texture using palette knives to create jagged edges and soft blends, representing the different phases of healing. Celebrate Love in Every Form This Valentine’s Season Art is a reflection of the heart, making heart-shaped wood art panels a natural choice for capturing raw emotion. Whether you’re painting a joyful love story, a tribute to self-love, or a journey of healing, Trekell’s Symbolic Heart, Anatomical Heart, Candy Heart, and Broken Heart Panels offer a unique canvas to bring your vision to life. So grab your paint supplies, set your intention, and let your creativity flow. Your most daring, heartfelt masterpiece is waiting to be created. Ready to start? Explore Trekell’s heart-shaped panels and make this Valentine’s season your most creative yet.

Starting Your Holiday Art with the Right Panel

The holidays are here, and you may be looking for durable and dependable art panels to create holiday magic. It is essential to choose the proper materials, and that importance is emphasized when it comes to developing projects for the holidays. The variety, versatility, and durability of Trekell art panels can take your holiday projects from the naughty to the nice list, whether it be creating personalized painted gifts for family, friends, or colleagues. For home décor, like holiday wall art, festive signs, centerpieces, or even family projects that involve kids or loved ones, these wooden wonders are the best-kept secret for keeping your holiday keepsakes in pristine condition. Like Santa's elves, we value quality and craftsmanship and have 40 years of experience delivering exceptional art supplies. Stronger than Santa’s Reindeer Our art panels are made of baltic birch, hardboard, and aluminum composite, which makes them sturdier than traditional canvas. Whether you choose a wood, hardboard, or ACM art panel, you will enjoy the added benefit of starting your project immediately on a raw or pre-primed surface. The strength of art panels is that they are perfect for various media, whether you use paint, ink, mixed media, or techniques like pouring and collaging. These surfaces' durability and versatility are ideal for creating unique holiday keepsakes this season and all year round! Holiday Aesthetic? Nailed It From a cozy cabin, minimalist, or super glam, we all have our aesthetics when creating our preferred holiday art. Trekell offers many styles of art panels that can elevate your project. Block, floater, plein air, and cradled basic birch styles are all great options for creating various holiday aesthetics. Shape and display sizes are other essential elements in creating holiday art. Festive Shapes and Display Sizes Our selection of different shape options can help you achieve your holiday artistic goals. For example, you may use a round panel for festive wreath designs or an arch panel for storytelling art. An ellipse may be your choice for a portrait or creative landscape. Utilizing the available shapes can help elevate your holiday art even further- which is especially important when making gifts for our loved ones. The overall shape of your project is equally important, as is the thickness. We offer art panels with thicknesses from 1/8" to 1 ¾", all of which suit various display preferences, from framed to floating. Consider the thickness and style for display—thicker panels make bold, standalone pieces, while thinner options are frame-friendly. Substrates that Sleigh What your panel is made of, or the material substrates, plays a vital role in the strength of your holiday project. Canvas can be limiting and not support your holiday art endeavors. However, baltic birch, hardboard, and aluminum composite all offer additional support for your creativity. Baltic birch, for example, can withstand heavy paint application, is impeccably durable, and has a neutral color that allows colors to stand out. Hardboard is also an extremely durable option resistant to cracks and warping. Its compressed wood fibers make a smooth surface that is easy to prime. Then, you have an aluminum composite with a remarkably high strength-to-lightweight ratio. This creative surface is durable, weather and corrosion-resistant! Primed & Ready: Just Add Cheer Our art panels are primed and ready for you to use your artistic talents to spread some holiday cheer. Whether you need a surface prepped for Acrylic Gesso, Acrylic Primed Linen, Lead Primed Linen, Oil Ground, Oil Primed Linen, Quadruple Oil Primed Linen, or Watercolor Paper Panels, we have the finish to suit your project's needs. This holiday season, let your creativity shine brighter than ever. With Trekell art panels, you’re not just creating art—you’re crafting memories. Check out our panels here and find the perfect surface for your holiday art.

When Should You Use Soft Brushes for Painting?

Mastering Sleek, Delicate, and Detailed Techniques You sit down at your easel and have a brilliant idea for your next art piece. Then you realize this project requires soft brushes for a smooth and delicate finish. As many artists know, in the early stages of their creation, the correct brushes can make a difference in their projects' overall process and outcome. Using a different type of brush than a style you may be used to can be uncomfortable, but experimenting and exploring the new techniques that can be accomplished with a soft-bristled brush can lead to inspiring new effects, precision, finesses, and smoothness. But what makes Trekell soft brushes stand out from others on the market? And how do you know what art styles, projects, techniques, and mediums call for soft brushes? We're here today to guide you through selecting the right soft brush to master the sleek, delicate, and detailed results you desire. How Are Soft Brushes Different? Soft brush bristles are made of either natural or synthetic materials. This blog post compares our stunning and sustainable Sienna Synthetic Red Sable Brushes to traditional Red Sable Brushes in more detail. The critical point is that soft brushes hold and release gouache, ink, paint, and watercolor differently than a stiff bristle brush. Soft brushes are ideal for delicate strokes, beautiful blending, and impeccable detail work. With less shedding and better control of your brush's snap and shape retention, the clean brush strokes created by our Sienna Synthetic Red Sable Brushes is something artists of any level can appreciate. What Art Styles and Techniques Favor Soft Brushes? Soft brushes have incredible uses in any art style and its applicable techniques. For example, if you are working on a landscape or smooth gradient piece, our Fan 5630 Series brush is ideal for blending and smoothing background details, creating interesting textures, multiple lines, or spots and dots. Perfect for painting skies, water, and the transition from light into the shadows. You may be more interested in adding glazing and watercolor effects to your work. Our Cats Tounge 5640 Series brush may be what you are looking for. This brush is optimal for rendering brilliant strokes and washes. While the Cat Tounge 5640 Series shines when working with gouache and watercolor, it is an excellent option for any medium. Now, no matter the art style, your piece may benefit from adding fine details, highlights, and precise linework. These techniques are particularly prominent when working within the styles of portraits and realism. Working with soft brushes for these art styles allows artists to portray realistic textures and transitions. Having a brush allows adding these elements without disrupting your existing layers. The Script 5650 Series and Liner 5680 Series are favorable here. While these two brushes have similarities, they also have distinct qualities that make them each individually valuable assets to your brush collection. For instance, the Script 5650 Series is renowned for its unbroken strokes and ability to add long and narrow exquisite details. Meanwhile, the Liner 5680 Series allows work within tight spaces with the required care and control. Qualities are imperative when applying those finishing highlights and outlines to your work. But how do you choose the right brush for your artistic needs? How do You Choose The Right Brush For Your Needs? As we have explored thus far, soft brush bristles are incredibly versatile and can be applied to various art styles. Knowing what brush is suitable for you and your projects, as well as what to look for in the quality of the brush, may be based on a few factors. For instance, if you require a brush that will allow you to apply even and heavy lines, perhaps with a bit of layering to your work, you may be fond of the flat end and round midsection of the Bright 5610 Series brush. If more of a medium line and a preference for perfect blending and flow is something you're looking for, then the Filbert 5620 Series will be a welcomed addition to your collection. However, the iconic and quintessential Round 5600 Series brush is a must-have for any artist's collection. This tool can do it all. Its rounded shape makes it unbelievably versatile, with the ability to apply washes, fills, linework, and beyond. Of course, keeping quality and durability in mind when investing in your brush collection is crucial. The qualities of your brush handle length, ferrule, and bristles are essential. For example, our Trekell Sienna Synthetic Red Sable soft brushes have a 10" handle. This handle length provides the ideal control and balance you want when wielding your paintbrush. Ferrule is another area of your brush that you want to have superior quality. The ferrule is the metal section of your brush that connects the bristle to the handle. When shopping for brushes, look for firmly attached ferrules that do not seem as if they will loosen with use. This durable construction may seem like a small detail, but it is, in fact, a vital feature of any artist's brush. Once again, it is essential to mention the importance of selecting a brush with bristle that can be used when working with a myriad of mediums. Feeling confident in your purchase of your brushes by considering quality is essential. Still, by also practicing proper care of your soft brushes, you can significantly expand your tools' lifespan. How do You Take Proper Care of Soft Brushes? You've just finished a day of painting some of your best work, and your brushes desperately need deep cleaning. Using the proper soap to remove your medium of choice from your bristles is essential in preserving their lifespan. Using our Trekell Coconut Oil Soap is great for removing residue from Water-Based Media. The Trekell Linseed Oil Soap removes oil paint from your brushes. Use Trekell Artist Brush Restorer to rehabilitate your brushes and protect your bristles' overall quality. Once your brushes are properly cleaned, you can use a soft cloth designated for drying them to remove excess moisture and leave them out to finish air drying. Once dry properly, store your brushes for future use or travel in our Trekell Brush Case. We encourage you to explore the versatility of Sienna Synthetic Red Sable soft brushes for your next project. Investing accordingly into quality brushes can improve your painting experience and the outcome of your artwork. Adding soft brushes to your collection may unlock new inspiration, techniques, and textures to your artistic repertoire.

How To Make Your Artwork POP

How To Make Your Artwork Pop Visual illusions are one way to really make your artwork POP! They can make objects appear larger, smaller, closer, or farther away than they actually are. When used effectively, they can add a layer of depth and dimensionality to your artwork that tricks the eyes and deceives the viewer’s perception of reality. Types of Illusions Diminishing Scale You can easily adjust the size and placement of objects in your artwork to create a powerful illusion of depth. As objects recede into the distance, their diminishing size can dramatically enhance the sense of perspective and distance within your artwork. Dutch artist Vermeer expertly used diminishing scale and linear perspective to create the illusion of depth in his paintings, employing these techniques so effectively that scholars debate whether he secretly used a glass lens and mirror to achieve this effect. artwork by Lizzy Gass Negative Space Negative space, the double entendre of the art world, is the areas around and between objects. Negative space plays a crucial role in the composition of your artwork. By strategically utilizing it, you can draw attention to the main subject and create a sense of balance, depth, and perspective. Dutch artist M.C. Escher skillfully used negative space to create complex, interlocking shapes and tessellations. By balancing positive and negative space, he allowed forms to transform seamlessly, exploring themes like infinity, duality, and optical illusions. His innovative use of empty space was central to his exploration of impossible structures. artwork by Kim VanDerHoek Color Contrast By carefully selecting and placing colors in your artwork, you can use color contrast to create powerful illusions of depth and dimension. The simplicity of a floater panel allows your viewer's focus to be drawn directly to the interplay of colors, enhancing the illusionary effect. Italian artist Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio expertly employed striking color contrasts, particularly through his signature chiaroscuro technique—the use of light and shadow—to craft convincing illusions of depth and realism. By placing brightly lit figures against dark, shadow-filled backgrounds, he made his subjects seem as if they were stepping out of the darkness. This approach enhanced the sense of three-dimensionality, drawing the viewer’s eye to essential elements and amplifying the emotional intensity of his scenes, giving them a lifelike and dramatic quality. His skillful use of color contrast became a defining feature of his work and had a lasting impact on Baroque art. artwork by Nicole Gustafsson Trekell's Floater Panels: The Ideal Canvas for Illusions Trekell's floater panels offer a unique canvas that can enhance the impact of your illusions. Their minimalist design and smooth, durable finish provide an ideal surface for a variety of mediums, especially mixed media. A floater panel is a wooden canvas that's designed to look like it has a frame. An illusion in itself, the design of our floater panel will make your artwork appear to hover within the panel. Our floater panels are designed to enhance the presentation of your artwork. With their clean lines and high-quality materials, they provide a modern and sophisticated backdrop for your creations. When combined with the techniques described above, our floater panels can help you create truly captivating pieces. So, don't be afraid to get creative and explore the possibilities of illusionary art.

The Ideal Canvas: Trekell’s Cradled Baltic Birch Panels for Lasting Paintings

A Foundation for Lasting Art When creating a masterpiece, the choice of canvas is just as crucial as the colors on the palette. Here at Trekell, we understand the importance of providing artists with a foundation that enhances their work and stands the test of time. Our Cradled Baltic Birch Panels are designed to do just that and are the best wooden canvases for painting. Why Paint on a Cradled Panel? Painting on a Cradled Wooden Panel offers several advantages for artists. Wooden panels, especially those made from high-quality materials like Baltic birch, are known for their durability and resistance to warping and cracking. The cradled construction provides excellent stability, preventing the canvas from sagging or bowing, which is crucial for maintaining a flat surface for your painting. Cradled Wooden Panels are compatible with various painting mediums, making them versatile for a variety of artistic styles and techniques. Additionally, the natural texture of wood can add depth and interest to your artwork, providing a unique surface for your paint to adhere to. Finally, when constructed properly, wooden panels can be considered archival materials, ensuring that your artwork remains preserved for generations to come. Trekell's Cradled Baltic Birch Panels If you’re looking for the best wooden canvas for painting, look no further. George H. Simkins, father of Trekell artist Greg Simkins, teamed up with Trekell to design our gorgeous wood panels. Available in a 1" Traditional Profile and a 1 3/4" Gallery Profile in a massive array of sizes our Cradled Baltic Birch Panels are a versatile and durable wooden canvas for artists of all levels. Our Cradled Wooden Panels are crafted with high-quality Baltic birch supported by a basswood cradle, ensuring a lightweight yet sturdy frame that complements the birch's robustness. This combination provides a superior foundation for artists who are seeking the best wooden canvas for painting. The Benefits of a Thicker Panel One of the key factors that sets our Cradled Wooden Panels apart is the use of 1/4" Baltic birch, while many other brands opt for a thinner 1/8" material. This thicker birch significantly reduces the likelihood of cracking, a common issue with thinner panels due to natural wood expansion and contraction caused by temperature and humidity changes. The thicker material used in our Cradled Wooden Panels provides enhanced structural integrity, resisting warping and maintaining a flat surface even under various environmental conditions. Additionally, the thicker construction minimizes the risk of cracking, ensuring your artwork remains intact for years to come. For artists who prioritize the preservation of their work, the archival quality of our panels is paramount. The sturdy construction preserves your artwork in its original form, ensuring that it stands the test of time. Amplify Your Artwork By choosing Trekell's Cradled Baltic Birch Panels, you're investing in the best wooden canvas for painting that will not only showcase your art beautifully but also protect it for years to come. Experience the difference of a truly exceptional foundation for your masterpieces.

The Ultimate Guide: 7 Common Mistakes in Preparing Wooden Panels

Sealing your wooden panel before priming — and then using the appropriate primer to prepare the panel for your chosen paint media — is a must for achieving a smooth, pro-looking finish. But even the best of us can make mistakes that could compromise the final result. So sit back, relax and take a few minutes out of your day while we break down the most common pitfalls and give you tips to create a flawless finish that will stand the test of time. Youtube video here Be Aware of These Mistakes When Prepping Your Wooden Panel: Mistake #1 - Skipping Surface Prep Before you even start sealing your wooden panel make sure your surface is clean and dry. Give it a good scrub to remove any dust or dirt. A light sanding can help the sealant adhere better, but do note that Trekell panels come pre-sanded. Mistake #2 - Overloading Primer Whether you are using a Non-Absorbent Acrylic Primer or Gamblin Ground Oil Primer for oil painting, an Acrylic Gesso or Matte Medium for acrylic painting, a Watercolor Ground for watercolor canvases, a Pastel Ground for vibrant pastel art or Drawing Ground for anything from pencils to charcoal, ink to mixed media another common mistake is applying the primer too thickly. This can lead to drips, runs, and uneven coverage. Instead, aim for thin, even coats. It's better to apply multiple coats than to try to cover everything in one go. Mistake #3 - Rushing Dry Time Patience is key when it comes to priming. Let the sealant seep into the wood panel and allow it to dry. Rushing this step can lead to adhesion problems and a less durable finish, so walk away if you have to! Mistake #4 - Wrong Sealant Choice Not all sealants are created equal. Protect your artwork with Golden GAC 100, a professional-grade art sealant. Enhance durability, adhesion, and preservation with this versatile sealant. Safeguard your substrates from moisture, dust, and other threats, ensuring your artwork remains vibrant for years to come. Mistake #5 - Skipping Sanding Between coats of primer or sealant, a light sanding can help smooth out any imperfections and ensure a better finish. Use fine-grit sandpaper and light, even pressure to avoid damaging the surface. Mistake #6 - Ignoring Environment Your environment can significantly impact the drying and curing process of primers and sealants. Maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level to avoid issues like wrinkling, blistering, or uneven drying. Mistake #7 - Skipping Final Touches Once your primer and sealant are dry, take the time to inspect the surface for any imperfections. If you notice any blemishes or missed spots, touch them up with additional primer or sealant as needed. This final step will ensure a flawless finish. Preparing a wooden panel for painting is a crucial step that often requires careful attention to detail. By avoiding these common mistakes, you'll be well on your way to achieving a professional-quality finish. Remember, patience, precision, and the right materials are key to creating a lasting piece of art. With Trekell's high-quality sealants and primers, you have the foundation for a successful project. So, take your time, follow the steps, and let your creativity shine.

Choosing the Right Trekell Brushes for Details

It’s All in the Details As an artist, your tools are just as important as your talent. And one of the most important tools in your arsenal? Your brushes! The right brush can make a world of difference in your artwork, helping you achieve those super-detailed, precise strokes. Small brushes are your secret weapon for intricate details. Their smaller size allows for greater control and precision, making them ideal for delicate lines, fine textures, and tiny elements. However, while small brushes are indispensable for intricate details, they might not be the most practical choice for larger artworks. So make sure you consider the size of your canvas when selecting brushes. For larger pieces, you'll likely need a combination of larger and smaller brushes to achieve both broad strokes and fine details. Remember, the best brush for a particular task depends on the specific details you want to achieve. Experiment with different brush types and sizes to find the ones that work best for you. No matter your painting technique or mark-making preference, we, here at Trekell, have a wide selection of brushes perfect for your detail needs. SMALL ROUND When people think of a fine art brush, they picture a round. The iconic, rounded shape is versatile, allowing artists to lay down washes, fills, and lines of all sizes. These versatile brushes are perfect for creating smooth lines, blending colors, and adding details to your artwork. LINER The liner brush is similar to the script brush, just with a smaller, narrower shape. If a project calls for deft control, such as lettering or tight outlines, a liner brush is a smart right choice. These brushes have a long, thin tip, making them perfect for creating fine lines and intricate details. SCRIPT/RIGGER Speaking of hair, the script brush's long hairs are formed into a narrow point. Tasks requiring delicate details, such as highlighting, outlining, and lettering, are where the script brush has made its name, though its paint-carrying capacity also allows for long, unbroken linework. FLAT With medium-to-long bristles that form into a chisel-esque end, a flat brush is made to be maneuverable over large surface areas. Flat brushes are ideal for producing fluid streaks or long fine lines. BRIGHT The shorter, evenly shaped hairs of bright brushes are ideal for easily controlling heavy and thick applications of paint with succinct strokes. If you're planning on laying paint on top of paint in terse bursts, these brushes are a must. FILBERT The filbert's medium to long hairs form a soft oval that's tapered at the end, a perfect shape for figurative blending and working within tight areas. The filbert is also a master of flow, making flat lines look rounded. CAT’S TONGUE The cat's tongue is a utility brush, performing many techniques well. Its triangle tip is for delicate lines, the edge for medium-sized strokes, and the flat side for bold lines and confident washes. A growing favorite among watercolorists, though it works well with most media. All of these brush shapes can be found in the following lines: Golden Taklon, Crimson Taklon, Spectrum, Legion, Opal, Hog Bristle, Sienna, Onyx, Protégé and Protégé Plus. Last, but certainly not least, we would be doing you a great disservice if we didn’t point out one final set to you. MIDZ DETAIL BRUSH SET The Trekell MIDZ Detail Brush Set stands out as a premium collection for the artist who requires precision and versatility in their work. Comprising of a #2 cat's tongue, #5/0 round, and a 5/0 liner, each brush is crafted with golden taklon fibers, renowned for their resilience, durability, and fine tip retention. Perfectly suited for all media types, be it watercolors, acrylics, oils, or inks, these brushes guarantee smooth application and impeccable control. With Trekell, artists can trust that even the tiniest details of their masterpieces will be executed with the utmost accuracy. At Trekell, we believe that every stroke counts, and having the right brush in hand can make all the difference. Whether you're refining the smallest details or making bold moves across a large canvas, our wide selection of precision brushes has you covered. From versatile rounds to fine liners and specialized shapes like the cat's tongue and filbert, you'll find the perfect tool for every technique.Ready to take your work to the next level? Explore our collections, including the standout MIDZ Detail Brush Set, and discover how the right brush can transform your art. With Trekell, every masterpiece is within reach, one stroke at a time.

A Guide to Acrylic Paintbrushes

Choosing the right acrylic paintbrush can significantly affect painting quality and your artistic technique. Learn more about different brush types, what they are used for and how you can maintain them to protect their performance and longevity. Types of Acrylic Paintbrushes All paintbrushes are made up of the same components: Bristles, or hairs The ferrule, which connects the bristles to the handle The crimp, which secures the ferrule to the handle The handle The types of paintbrushes for acrylic painting come in a range of shapes to suit different techniques and strokes. They can create various textures to accomplish your artistic vision. Flat Flat brushes are square-shaped with flexible ends. Their broad design and ability to hold a lot of paint makes them ideal for covering large areas, painting washes and creating an impasto painting. You can also use them along their edge to create fine lines. Round Round brushes are versatile. They have large centers that taper to a fine point, allowing you to create lines of various thicknesses depending on how much pressure you apply. You can use a round brush for broad strokes and detail work. Filbert A filbert brush is a combination of flat and round brushes. Its rectangular shape allows it to cover large areas, like a flat brush. Like round brushes, filbert brushes also have rounded tips that enable them to create finer details. They can blend colors and form soft, rounded edges. They're especially ideal for painting nature scenes. Fan Fan brush bristles are thinly splayed out, creating unique textures and special effects. They are ideal for painting natural elements, blending colors and building up paint. Acrylic paint is heavy, so an acrylic fan brush needs durable bristles to withstand clumping. Other Brush Shapes Paintbrushes also come in these shapes: Bright: This brush is flat with curved edges, making it ideal for short, controlled strokes. Pointed round: Narrower than a round brush, a pointed round brush assists with fine details and delicate areas. Detail round: A detail round brush helps with precision. Angular flat: As a flat brush with an angled edge, this brush covers lots of space and reaches small areas. Synthetic vs. Natural Brushes Synthetic bristles are durable and long-lasting. They can handle acrylic resin and provide a consistent performance while withstanding the moisture associated with cleaning acrylic brushes. Because synthetic bristles are less likely to become damaged over time, they are a cost-effective option. Natural hair brushes offer a natural spring and paint-holding capacity. Their natural split ends and rough, stiff texture make them ideal for heavy textured strokes. Water can be harsh on natural hair bristles, so they require quick cleaning and extra care to ensure their longevity. Brush Handles Brush handles come in two sizes — short and long. Short handles are better when working close to your canvas. Long handles are ideal for easel painting, as they allow you to paint from a distance and see the whole piece at once. Brush Cleaning and Maintenance Once you've finished painting, follow these steps to clean your acrylic brushes: Gently squeeze out excess paint with a rag or paper towel. Stir the brush in your water cup, gently shake off the water, then pat dry on your rag or towel. Place a small bucket or bowl in the sink to catch the acrylic paint you will wash off. Rinse your brush under a small stream of water, being careful not to overfill the bucket or bowl. Use a gentle artist soap or hand soap to dislodge any leftover paint, and rinse well. Shake the brush to remove excess water. Let the brush dry horizontally. Dispose of the water in the bucket or bowl. We recommend not pouring the water down the drain. You can protect your investment by taking proper care of your brushes. Here are some general maintenance tips to keep in mind: Acrylics dry quickly, so clean your brush immediately after use to preserve the bristles. If you plan to use more than one brush at a time, keep the brushes moist to prevent the paint from drying. Rest your brush on the water cup rim rather than down in the water cup to avoid bending and fraying the bristles. Lay brushes horizontally and let the water drip away from the ferrule to prevent damage to the brush. Be careful not to get paint on the ferrule, as paint can cause the bristles to spread and fray. Storing Acrylic Paintbrushes Proper storage is critical to ensuring your paintbrushes maintain their shape. If the tips are bent or crushed, they can become frayed and deformed. If you have a dedicated workspace, you can lay your brushes on the table horizontally or stand them up vertically in a brush holder. If you need to transport your brushes, use a long rectangular box, such as a shoebox, a plastic container or a dedicated paintbrush holder. If the container was not designed to hold brushes, take care to protect the bristles. Benefits of Quality Brushes Investing in the best paintbrushes for acrylic painting enhances your painting experience and makes it easier and more enjoyable. A quality brush offers: Longevity: Paintbrushes made out of quality materials are durable, meaning they can last a long time, even with continual use and cleaning. Optimal performance: A quality paintbrush will provide the smooth strokes and sharp edges you expect it to. Better bristles: A quality brush holds onto bristles better, and the bristles are less likely to curl or develop split ends. Frequently Asked Questions Learn more about selecting and caring for acrylic paintbrushes. Does Acrylic Paint Wash Off Brushes? Yes, acrylic paint does wash off brushes, as long as you follow proper cleaning procedures. Acrylic dries quickly, so you must wash the paint off the brush as soon as possible to prevent it from drying and sticking to the bristles. How Do You Choose an Acrylic Paintbrush? Finding the right acrylic paintbrush for your needs will depend on factors like: Brush size and shape. Bristle type. Handle length. These paintbrush components help you accomplish different techniques and effects. Think about what you want to achieve, and select the brush that accomplishes your vision. Purchasing a pack of paintbrushes gives you an opportunity to try out different brushes to find the right fit for your project. What Is the Difference Between Acrylic Brushes and Other Brushes? A brush used for acrylic painting needs to be adequately chemical resistant. Acrylic paint can damage natural hair brushes, leading to streaking and a shorter brush life span. Synthetic brushes hold up better to acrylic paint, so you can create smoother strokes while enjoying brush durability and longevity. What Are the Best Paintbrushes for Acrylic Painting? The best paintbrush for acrylic painting depends on your goals. If you want to cover large areas, a flat brush is ideal. If you plan to do a lot of detail work, a rounded brush might be best. If you are doing a combination of bold and fine strokes, a filbert brush may fit your needs best. Find the Best Acrylic Paintbrushes for Your Next Project at Trekell Art Supplies Trekell Art Supplies is proud to offer a variety of quality acrylic paintbrushes to help enhance your painting experiences. Browse our online selection today, or find a store near you to view options in person!

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