Kwast

Kwast is the Dutch word for a brush, a hand-held tool consisting of bristles or filaments anchored to a handle. Brushes are used to apply liquids or powders, such as paint, glue, or cosmetics, and for cleaning, smoothing, or texturing surfaces. The term covers a wide range of implements, from artistic paintbrushes to makeup brushes and household scrubbing brushes.

Brushes designed for painting come in various forms: flat brushes with a square edge for broad strokes, round brushes for detail, filbert (oval) brushes for intermediate shapes, and fan brushes for blending. The bristles can be natural (hog or other animal hair) or synthetic (nylon, polyester), and the handles are often wood or plastic. Makeup brushes include powder brushes, foundation brushes, eyeshadow brushes, and eyeliner or angled brushes; cleaning brushes focus on scrubbing power, with stiff bristles and ergonomic handles.

Material and care: Natural bristles are valued for certain textures but require careful cleaning and drying; synthetic bristles are generally easier to maintain and may be more vegan-friendly. After use, brushes should be cleaned with appropriate cleaners, rinsed, gently squeezed and dried with the bristles pointing downward to prevent water from seeping into the handle. Storing in a dry, ventilated place extends lifespan.

History and manufacturing: Brushes have been used since ancient times to apply paint and for grooming. The modern production of standardized brushes began in Europe in the 18th and 19th centuries, with mass-produced bristles and handles enabling broader availability across crafts and cosmetics.

See also: Paintbrush, Makeup brush, Cleaning brush.