Pennelli

Pennelli are tools used to apply paint or makeup. In Italian, pennelli (singular pennello) encompasses brushes employed by visual artists for painting and by makeup professionals for cosmetic application. The term covers a wide range of bristles, ferrules, and handles designed for different media, finishes, and techniques.

Materials and construction: Bristles can be natural or synthetic. Natural bristles include hog bristle for oil painting and finer animal hairs such as kolinsky sable or squirrel used for watercolor and detail work. Synthetic bristles, made from nylon, Taklon, or other polymers, are common for their durability and easy cleaning. Handles are typically wood or plastic; ferrules are usually metal.

Shapes and sizes: Common shapes include round, flat, filbert, angular, fan, and mop. Sizes range from tiny detail brushes to large washes. Special brushes exist for lettering, calligraphy, or cosmetics, as well as for airbrushing when applicable.

Applications: In fine art, pennelli are used across media: oils require stiffer bristles, watercolors demand softer bristles, and acrylics require a balance of stiffness and resilience. In cosmetics, pennelli apply foundation, powder, blush, eyeshadow, and other products, with form and size chosen for facial areas and effects.

Care and maintenance: Clean brushes after use with appropriate cleaners, reshape the tips, and dry bristles pointing downward or horizontally to avoid water seeping into the handle. Store upright or in a protective sleeve to prevent damage.