Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What are the differences between Monarch Elite & Pro-Extra Monarch brushes?

    Professional users have individual likes and dislikes when it comes to tools. Many prefer the Monarch Elite for best work whilst the extra stiffness and paint carrying ability of the Pro-Extra is preferred by others.

  2. Do you recommend any particular paint to achieve the best results with a Purdy?

    Purdy synthetic filament brushes are suitable for use with all paints, stains and varnishes. We regularly test brushes with all types of paints to ensure the best performances are achieved..

  3. What is the best brush to select for a fine finish when using varnish?

    Purdy Syntox is recommended for the application of stains, varnishes and polyurethanes, where a mirror like finish is required with no brushmarks..

  4. Why don't you paint your brush handles?

    Purdy brush handles are made from Alderwood, a natural lightweight hardwood. If brushes are stored in water the wood quickly expands to almost eliminate any seepage within the ferrule. If the handles were painted or were plastic, they would be less effective. Unpainted handles are also very comfortable to work with.

  5. Why are Purdy brushes so expensive?

    All Purdy paintbrushes are hand made by our dedicated and experienced brush makers. Purdy synthetic brushes are guaranteed against bristle loss and guaranteed to outlast any natural bristle brush by at least 5 times. Probably the best business investment you could make.

  6. I use my Purdy synthetic brushes for water based paints but I was told that I can also use them with oils. Is this correct?

    All Purdy Elite, Pro-Extra and XL brushes can be used equally well in both water-borne and solvent based paints.

  7. I have tried using synthetic brushes with oil paints but don't get the same result as with my natural bristle brush. Am I doing something wrong?

    As synthetic don't wear down in the same way as natural bristle, the technique is slightly different. Try loading the brush deeper and with more paint. Also do not apply as much pressure to the substrate as you would do when using your bristle brush.

  8. Why are synthetic filament brushes superior for use with water-borne paints than natural bristle brushes?

    Purdy synthetic filament brushes will not absorb large amounts of moisture and go floppy like natural bristle. Additionally they will virtually eliminate tramlines in quick drying paints.

  9. I use my Purdy synthetic brushes for water based paints but I was told that I can also use them with oils. Is this correct?

    All Purdy Elite, Pro-Extra and XL brushes can be used equally well in both water-borne and solvent based paints.

  10. Will Purdy synthetic filament brushes require breaking in just as natural bristle brushes do?

    No. All Purdy synthetic filament brushes will "cut in" from new and require no breaking in at all.

  11. Do Purdy sell natural bristle brushes?

    Purdy has an extensive range of styles in both natural Black and White China bristle. White bristle is softer and both are suitable for use with oil based coatings.

  12. Why do synthetic filament brushes sometimes curl when used on hot radiator pipes?

    The heat of the pipes has caused the brush head to become effected by the heat. Excessive heat or boiling water cans have an adverse effect on the brush. As a general rule if you can safely place your hand on the pipe or in the hot water the brush should be unaffected.

  13. I left my synthetic brushes in a pot and the tips have curled. What can I do?

    Dip the brush head in hot, but not boiling water, a number of times until the filaments become limp. Immediately hold the brush directly under a cold running tap.

  14. I left my synthetic brush standing in pot and it's gone out of shape. What can I do?

    Dip the brush head in hot, but not boiling water, a number of times until the filaments become limp. Immediately hold the brush directly under a cold running tap. This will restore some or all of the shape.

  15. How do I clean my synthetic filament brush out after use?

    Immediately after use, clean the brush in the appropriate solvent - water for water-borne coatings and Turpentine or White Spirit for oil based coatings. Avoid excess soaking of the brush.

  16. My brush is blowing out at the stock and the brush will not point at the tip any more. What can I do?

    This is most likely due to a build up of hardened paint residue in the brush. Use a brush comb to break up and remove the residue.

  17. Can I use a wire scratch brush to clean my synthetic filament brush?

    No - never. This can damage the filaments beyond repair.

  18. I have never used a brush comb. What is it used for?

    For best results clean both the edge and centre of the brush with the Purdy Brush Comb. This will prevent paint build up during use and extend the life of any brush.

  19. Should I store the brush in the keeper it was supplied in?

    This is always a good idea. After cleaning store it in the re-usable keeper to maintain its shape and to prevent damage. Once your keeper becomes worn, Purdy will issue new ones free of charge.

  20. Can Purdy brushes be stored in a Brush Storage System?

    All Purdy brushes with a stainless steel ferrule can be successfully stored in a Brush Storage System.