Silver Black Velvet: Search for the Perfect Brush

For years, I've been searching for the perfect paintbrush. After the reviews, videos, and blogs reviewing them, I thought it was time to check out these Silver Black Velvet brushes to see if, maybe, they might be "the perfect brush." Find out what I learned!
MUSIC:
“Bibbob Gloosh (instr)” by M.D. Campbell
noisetrade.com/meandboristhebull
© 2018 M.D. Campbell (aka Me & Boris the Bull)
All rights reserved
MY BLOG:
www.markdcampbell.com/the-9-li...
Instagram: mdcampbellart
Facebook: m.d. campbell
GEAR:
• Silver Brush Black Velvet watercolor brushes #2, 4, 6, and 8
• Hand•Book Panoramic Watercolor journal
• Isabey 6223 #10 100% pure sable brush
• Raphael Kaerrel #10 synthetic brush
• Daniel Smith watercolor paints
• Masters brush cleaner & preserver
To learn more about these brushes, please visit my friend's review videos on them. See the links below:
Mind of Watercolor - "A Look at My Brushes"
• A Look at the Watercol...
Teoh Yi Chie - "Silver Black Velvet Brush Review"
• Review: Silver Black V...
Meow Meow Kapow - "Review of the Susan Louise Moyer Set"
• Brush Review- Silver B...
In Liquid Color - "Top 10 Favorite Watercolor Brushes"
• My Top 10 Favorite Wat...
I hope this video was helpful in some way. Please "subscribe" to the channel, and feel free to leave comments, thoughts or questions below. Thank you and cheers!

[@MDCampbell]

For those who are liking this video, I'm grateful and thank you for just checking it out! For those who choose to click the "thumbs down" or dislike it, I understand it may not be what you were looking for. But, it would be helpful to know what it was that you _didn't_ like in the comments, so I can try harder in the future to bring content that is what folks are looking for. And for you, that person who always clicks "thumbs down" without even watching... I know who you are! LOL!! Just joking! Cheers! :)

[@lilpriestess]

After a year? What r her thoughts.... 😬

[@MDCampbell]

@@lilpriestess I continue to use them and they are still a valued part of my brush collection. However, I will say that they are not my go-to brushes, as they did not retain a sharp point, despite fixing them with preserver. Stray and dried bristles can often become frustration when doing more detailed work, even though they are still terrific brushes. Thank you for asking! Stay well! ~ Mark

[@lilpriestess]

M.D. Campbell would love to see a your most used watercolor everything video 😀... and thank you so much for replying!!!

[@MDCampbell]

@@lilpriestess That's a very interesting idea! I will definitely consider that! Thank you! I appreciate that feedback more than you know! Cheers!

[@DebadooCreates]

@@MDCampbell good to know that they didn't hold up after a year. Do you mind saying what your favorite brushes all around brushes are and why? Like someone else mentioned I would also love to see your kind of favorite go to everything's. Great tip about the coffee beans and also the tissue box. But coffee beans really that's sacrilege to not grind brew and drink them LOL use dried beans.

[@moodyroan79]

I still have some of my original Black Velvet's from 4 years ago and they're still going strong! One of my favorites that I reach for again and again!

[@MDCampbell]

That's really good to know! Because these are still so new, it's hard to predict their lifespan. Knowing you've had success makes me happy! Cheers! :)

[@ColoredMud]

That's a really good idea for drying out the brushes, I'll have to give that one a go! Thanks for sharing! :)

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you, MyArtJourney! I have lots of silly ways of doing things that are inexpensive, yet effective! lol! Cheers!

[@confusedcoffee3433]

These brushes look so cool. I've seen other art youtubers review them before, so I was extra excited to see your review. Your reviews are always really helpful 😄

[@chase4326]

Black Velvet brushes are my new favorite brushes! I absolutely love them! ♥️

[@lauradains2734]

The review of the Silver Black Velvet, was, as usual, thorough and concise. I also appreciated the drying rack hack. Thanks for another great video and have a great day.

[@Ieat2much]

I treat my brushes like my makeup brushes - dry them on a makeup brush drying rack ($5 Walmart) ferrule facing down and after cleaning I ‘moisturize’ with pure aloe gel when still wet and shape them ..so they dry in shape. Another great video. Thank you. I stopped buying makeup during this pandemic and now I watch YT and create art with supplies I have at home.

[@MDCampbell]

That's interesting, Tina Ganguly, I never thought to use aloe gel to shape brushes. I did, however, use it with some isopropyl alcohol and lime oil to make hand sanitizer recently! lol! Glad to hear you are making good use of the time at home! Thank you so much for checking this one out and leaving your kind feedback! Stay healthy! ~ Mark

[@Shesvii]

After In Liquid Color's video and yours I'm seriously considering getting one of these brushes. Great review as always, I like how you comment about every feature of art supplies.

[@quinnfitzpatrick7507]

Would love to see your go-to brushes in 2022! Thanks for the great content!

[@wonteatit]

I reeeeeally appreciate the homemade drying rack tip. Thanks for the video!

[@ladyshadow79]

What a great review that was!!! Your videos are always fun and full of useful information.. I own three of their brushes and they are my go to brushes for most of my projects. Thanks for this, and all of your videos. Blessings, Stacy

[@rgrdesigns]

I purchased some of these brushes a few months ago and love them.

[@cheapthrilll6323]

Great idea for drying brushes. I'm doin it!

[@homeschooledaroundtheworld4660]

Wonderful idea on drying the brushes!!!

[@raceface_m2579]

It’s my go-to brush! My absolute favorite

[@lonnieedwards4829]

My first Silver Brush was a medium mop. Great brush and held a lot of paint. After a year or so I noticed a small crack developing in the brush above the ferrule. No big deal. It's still a good brush today. Recently, I bought a 1 1/2" Silver Black Velvet flat wash brush (3014S), and paid $30 bucks at one of the big online art supply stores. Before I used the brush, I cleaned it with Masters and put it up to dry. Next day I noticed several cracks in the paint handle above the ferrule. I wasn't too happy about this, since it doesn't make sense to have a watercolor brush that falls apart when it gets wet. The art store wouldn't give me my money back; said I would have to take it up with Silver Brush; who never answered my email. It is important for me to have my brushes stay in good condition with use, so no more Silver Brushes for me. I use the Escoda line (Perla, Versatil, and Aquario) of brushes and really like them, they look as good today as the day I bought them. I also use Da Vinci and Raphael. Great brushes also. But you can't go wrong with Escoda.

[@ladyhecate9450]

I've read where others have had the same problems. I, too use DaVinci, Raphael, Escoda as well as Princeton Elite. Princeton Elite is my favorite as it keeps a point and springs right back.

[@krystinsawyer]

Great review; thank you! What really made me want to comment is that I’m a 4th-8th grade E/BD SpEd teacher and I love your tissue box brush holder. Art has been an incredible tool for my students and I’m always looking for ways to extend the life of the supplies I purchase (mostly with my own cash) without spending even more. Thank you!!

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you, so much for checking this out and leaving you kind comment, Krystin Sawyer! As a former educator, I totally understand how the cashflow/supplies works. Ouch! I'm happy you found this helpful! Enjoy your summer and best wishes for the upcoming school year ahead! :)

[@essietangle9931]

I have several of these brushes and really enjoy them. Like you I was a little surprised that they hold so much liquid. With time, the tips seem to wear down but I guess I am hard on them. I liked your coffee beans to keep your brushes separated, at the current time I am using polyester batting for mine. It was what I had but it works. I use the same brush cleaner it works well and is great for cleaning up a stained pallet. All videos on products are great and help us all to spend our supply money wisely,, thanks Mark. Take care.

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you, my friend! I really appreciate your words and support, as always. I didn't know to use the Master's to clean a palette! I will try that! But, yes, I totally agree about good product reviews, as they help everybody! Stay well!

[@veragaines1623]

I bought this brush set after watching your video! Very helpful! Thank you!

[@MDCampbell]

Thanks for that feedback, Vera Gaines! Have you used them yet? I was just using mine a few nights ago! I really enjoy them and glad I chose to buy them. Of course, I'm _still_ searching for that "perfect" brush! lol! Cheers! ~ Mark

[@tonymiller1482]

A great review video. I'll be looking at these brushes when I replace my own. I also really appreciated your quick instructional on cleaning the brushes at the end. That's a great use for an old tissue box!

[@robinjeree]

brilliant brush drying contraption!

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you, RobinJeree! I have to admit, I was pretty pleased with it when I came up with it many years ago. I've had lots of people comment on it and tell me, "you should get that patented," but no... I like my tissue box dry rack just fine. lol! The best thing is that when it gets too flimsy or the holes get pushed too big, I just take 10 minutes and make another one. Easy, right!? lol! Again, thank you for watching and leaving your comment! Cheers! :)

[@SuperExadidas]

Yes...I fully agree...Silver Black Velvet is really good.

[@aremedyproject9569]

Love the brush hanger idea. Bin feeling guilty for drying them flat lol. Thanks!!

[@JenniferBuayan]

I like the tissue box idea!! Thanks for sharing!!

[@PeppermintCereal]

I'm not much of a painter but watching you paint those cacti is really nice

[@kathrynsloan4694]

Mark, I liked your video. I have Silver Black Velvet brushes and I like them. I still am trying out some others and I to have a lot of old brushes. Thanks for your informative video. I love the idea for drying brushes.

[@brianashmorestudio]

Great review, Mark! I love my Silver Black Velvet brushes and use them all the time. I think your estimation of these is spot-on. I had to laugh when you were talking about everyone having thousands of old brushes around. Ha ha! So true... I can never bring myself to throw them away. I have a huge collection of brushes that are "ideal" for scrubbing and foliage since they no longer hold a point. I probably need about 2.

[@MDCampbell]

Thanks so much, Brian! I've moved a couple of times in the past 20 years, and on my last move I made the old "if I haven't used it in 10 years, it's time to let it go" decision and literally put hundreds of art supply products up for sale at a yard sale. The tubes of W&N paints went quickly, but the brushes were what everyone picked up and played with. I sold every single thing I put out, too, which was great for pairing down and purging, and making room for new stuff. I was surprised that people will buy almost anything, including beat up old brushes, used canvases, and even cruddy jars of ink that even I didn't want to use anymore! lol! I hope all is well on your end and thank you for checking this one out! :)

[@milliemcilvaine3031]

Love these.. My favorite

[@ladeiroses7526]

I love silver black velvet brushes. I found a #4 Silver Black Velvet Pocket brush. It goes everywhere with me.

[@MDCampbell]

That sounds like a great find! I use the DaVinci pocket brushes in my travel kit, but I bet I'd love that #4... will have to look for it! Cheers! :)

[@beccawildel8845]

Thank you for this. While I sketch and draw I am slowly attempting painting but am a fish out of water on what I am doing. I am determined to learn this....but they look more like a grade school project lol. This helps me without having to buy a lot of brushes while I am still learning. Thanks again.

[@MDCampbell]

I'm so happy this was helpful, Becca Wildel and it's sincerely just a matter of time, patience, and a desire to keep at it. We all start somewhere, but by putting our best fin forward, we become a fish IN water and find the swimming to be irresistible! Thank you for watching and leaving your comment! I'm grateful for that! :)

[@dshe8637]

I was pleased that of the other KZbin artists you recommend, two were already in my subscription list😊 I look forward to discovering the other two. I try to use synthetic brushes only, due to animal welfare concerns, and have found some nice ones from Silver brushes. They don't hold as much water of course, and I was interested in your observations on how much more paint they pick up. Not always a good thing. I wonder if it's possible to overcome this by softening the tips of the filaments on sandpaper? Will try it with cheaper brushes first!

[@ajlomas7185]

Hi Buddy, I really enjoy your videos, always useful and informative. I have these brushes sitting in my Amazon basket, 2 sets, but they are expensive, retailing at just under £80 for the two. I will get them, but it will probably be on 2 seperate occasions as they are a considered purchase. And I shall look forward to using them, as and when I buy them. Thanks for a great review, all the best to you buddy.

[@maureenhummel2568]

Thanks for a great review. These brushes are awesome. I really love them for detail work. I have the same recycled jam jar water container. LOL

[@Meow_meowHK]

Thank you very much for your review! It helps alot

[@MDCampbell]

I'm so happy, Alvina Lo! Thank you for taking your time to watch and leave such thoughtful feedback! Cheers! :)

[@jo-yy7ni]

good job on the review, now i’m ready to purchase one😁

[@jenniferburgess6518]

Love these brushes

[@dagoelius]

A fellow artist recommend Rosemary & Co brushes to me a few years ago. Cant speak for the watercolour range but for oils and acrylics they make the finest brushes I've used.

[@richardrosa7321]

Thats funny. You and I use the same exact jam jar, spray bottle, and brush cleaner. Ok back to watching the video!

[@appleknocker56]

For a long time used Zenart brushes but once changed to cotton paper (those couldn’t hold enough water) & only have (so many brushes that just didn’t perform) & then saw these on another YT video and thought why not try them. Been using mine now for 6 months & for wet on wet work so well and paint usually won’t go up into feral spot 🤗! Also try to re-purpose boxes to hold by brushes too! Ty for these videos as helps us beginners!

[@MDCampbell]

That's awesome, @appleknocker56!! Glad you found this video but grateful for your shared thoughts! Cheers! ~ Mark

[@supme7558]

This are the best brushs i love em

[@Megzamani]

Ok I bought some. I hope I love them.

[@gorway7]

Love the idea of the coffee beans but damn... I'd end up grinding and drinking it - bet it smells great.

[@karmadesigns]

I do love my black velvets. I've had a variety of them now for about 4 years. Only issue is that the paint comes off the handle to easily.

[@ozbity3243]

love your videos

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you, ozbity - I love your comments! Cheers! :)

[@dakotahjadee]

Hi! I’m a makeup artist and I’m constantly washing my makeup brushes. I use these brush guards that I got from amazon or the sigma drying rack, which is really helpful in preventing water from lingering in the ferrules and for keeping their shapes. I know they’re not exactly the same thing as paint brushes, but it might be helpful to you if you are interested in another solution 😊. Btw I just got into watercolor painting and your videos are super helpful! Thank you

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you so much for your kind words and generous feedback, dakotahjadee! Makeup brushes, in my opinion, are more vulnerable that paint brushes because they are going onto the skin and must retain their softness, luster, and bounce resiliency. The Sigma Dry & Shape Tower is a great brush drying rack, except that it won't hold some of my thicker or longer brushes. But, on average, it would definitely be to an artist's advantage, especially watercolorists, whose brushes tend to be in the 0-8 size range and that Sigma would be terrific! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and I hope others read this info!! :)

[@cthepower]

I really appreciate you sharing your friends channel links. I enjoyed your presentation very much, and have found some new and interesting channels .❤

[@MDCampbell]

thank you for checking this one out and for taking the time to share your feedback. I'm thrilled you enjoyed this! cheers! ~ Mark

[@cthepower]

@@MDCampbell i’ve been watching KZbin to learn new things for many years. When I appreciate that the art community is that they actually respond to messages, questions, and comments. Thank you so much.💕 blessings to you

[@MDCampbell]

@@cthepower yeah, it's too bad that a lot of folks, especially the larger channels, don't respond to viewer comments. I've met some amazing people through this social media format, but I've also encountered a lot of people who just don't remember to engage their followers. It's a shame, but it's also why I'm so humbled that anyone would not only watch something I posted, but actually enjoyed it. Enough to leave a comment, no less!! I try hard to respond and if I don't, then shame on me too! lol! Thank you for taking your time to comment. It truly means a lot! Blessing back to you, too! ~ Mark

[@cthepower]

@@MDCampbell ❤️

[@jl4643]

Great review! The black velvet by Silver are my favorite brushes. I’ve tried Princeton and Davinci plus many cheap ones but these are the ones I reach for most often. It’s true about how much water they hold & I solve it like you said, dabbing some off onto a paper towel. I don’t mind it though because I have the option. I recently bought a set of detail brushes on Amazon dirt cheap and several of those are really impressive. If I don’t want a lot of water, I tend to reach for those. Like you, I love a good bargain. But performance is key too.

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you for such great feedback on these, J L. I agree with your last statement about bargain vs performance. I have cheap brushes that are exactly that - they just perform really well! Cheers to you!

[@EveBolt]

My closest-to-perfect brush, so far, is the Escoda Ultimo. It's a nice fake squirrel brush with the perfect balance of water retention and spring. I love them a lot :D I have a Silver Black Velvet but I find it a bit too soft and thirsty for my current level of skills

[@ybe7011]

I think paint brushes are such a personal preference and depend on getting used to the nuances of the brush and the technique you need it for. I use stiffer synthetic brushes for most of my work on animal vellum, I need much less water than on cotton paper. And I need a precise line. But those brushes don't do what I need on watercolor paper. I remember when I got my first sable brushes, I was thinking what's all the hype here? These are a pain! They don't hold up their shape and flop around. But I was trying to use them just like a synthetic brush... Disappointed to say the least, you have to go about it differently with those, a lighter hand and more water to keep the shape. These silverbrushes are somewhere in between. Thanks for the video.

[@alessandrasmota]

Great idea for the upside-down brush hanging, I use silly putty to put them upside down on my pegboard.

[@MDCampbell]

I love that idea! Does the silly putty ever dry out?

[@Paputsza]

I feel like cheap less absorptive brushes are better for picking up and mixing colors and the more absorptive brushes are better for blending once the colors are on the paper.

[@c8Lorraine1]

Thank you for the demo as ell

[@basrahg.250]

Thank you love this 🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@SteelPhoenyx]

Great review! I'm wondering how well they would work for brush inking. I've been using the Winsor & Newton Series 7 brushes for inking.

[@LillenArt2]

I've only heard good things about Black Velvet brushes but I haven't gotten a chance to try them yet.

[@kellywilson2147]

Great review, Mark!

[@SharonNolfi]

Thanks for this review. I've watched the other reviews (your friends seem to be the same as my friends) and have sometimes thought of buying these. My only reservation is that I don't like using animal products for something as non-essential as a paintbrush. Do you think natural hair is superior to the best quality synthetics? Curious about your opinion.

[@juliebergacker5680]

Great thanks

[@Megzamani]

What do you use the pipettes for

[@jefffawver3389]

Thank you

[@annaolegovna1910]

Every review of these brushes I saw was positive but it was your review that was the last straw that broke my willpower... next paycheck these babies will be mine

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you, Anna Olegovna! I continue to put them to the test and the more I use them, the better I like them. They do take time to get used to, but once you do... they're really good balanced brushes! :)

[@ann-marielofberg1159]

👍🏻👊🏻 supergod and helpful video!

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you, Ann-Marie Löfberg! I'm happy you enjoyed this one! :)

[@robindanette1206]

You have quickly become one of my fav On KZbin. I love your voice and teaching style and I can tell you absolutely love creativity for yourself and others. Because of this I want to ask you a question. Do you think there is a enough knowledge from online videos and places like the library, craft fairs museums and exhibits. That it is possible to become a Artist or a “self taught” Artist. I’m aware it takes time, but is there anything else a person could do to become a watercolor artist. I spend a lot of time trying duplicating art I see online and attempting to replicate that technique. I read and try to learn every thing I can from color theory/mixing to history. Basically I’m just asking do you believe that it’s possible for someone to become a Artist or self-taught artist without a formal education with the amount of knowledge there is available for free . By the way I am all for education... its just that at my age right now formal education is not possible or affordable.

[@arrogantebitch]

Since I'm doing the same as you described, I'd say yes, it is possible. Don't give up and don't stop doing what you are doing. ♡

[@geslinam9703]

I do like the Silver brushes, I think they are a good value....but, I’m trying to find synthetic (cruelty free) alternatives....a few weeks now I’ve been using the DaVinci Casaneo quill style brushes, and I am really impressed.

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you for your feedback, Geslina M! I appreciate that. In the next week or so, I'll be posting another "Search for the Perfect Brush" video reviewing the Black Tulip synthetic watercolor brushes. I'm excited to see if they hold up to my needs! Cheers! :)

[@geslinam9703]

M.D. Campbell never heard of Black Tulip brand. Looking forward to the review. Try out the DaVinci brush I mentioned, they are really good and I’d like to see more people learn about them. I admit, I love natural hair brushes, but I think synthetics are getting better and better.

[@MDCampbell]

@@geslinam9703 thank you! I actually have several of the DaVinci Cosmotop brushes and really enjoy them, too. I'll look into that Casaneo quill style! Thank you for that! ~ Mark

[@geslinam9703]

M.D. Campbell I have one Cosmotop...it’s good for small washes, but it never really had much of a point, which is why I don’t use it often. I paint small, lots of detail, so I usually use a 4 or a 6 and the brush must have a good point, which I have found difficult to find in a synthetic. The Casaneo brushes aren’t as soft as squirrel quills, but still hold a lot of water if you need them to...and have a beautiful point. I hope you will get one and do a review. Thanks for your reply!

[@basrahg.250]

Thank you thank you thank you 🌷 from Saudi Arabia🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@denisestover2416]

Hi! It's been almost 16 months since you bought and tested the Silver Brush Black Velvet. After a year of extensive use how has it fared? Thank you! God Bless!

[@denaheck1506]

Like you already. I am a coffee fanatic, having lovely smelling coffee beans in your paint brush holder. OMG. Also just purchased these brushes. I have trouble getting the belly of the brush. The tips are great but they do get too much water I find I have dab on cloth before using. Nice video.

[@MDCampbell]

Pretty much everything you wrote is just like me! lol! From the love of coffee to the dabbing on the cloth! Thank you for checking this out, Dena Heck, and leaving your kind thoughts! Happy painting! :)

[@ConsHime]

Which Silver Velvet Brush number is good for details?

[@KarijnsWatercolors]

I have heard so much about these brushes that I fear I'll have to give up and just buy one the next time I purchase something at Jackson's. :P

[@ybe7011]

I got mine at Jackson's during their brush sale. Go for it!

[@gab_m_mad]

I can’t find them on Amazon UK 😩

[@ivyseabreeze]

For old paint brushes, public schools are always in need to painting supplies. You could call a local school and inquire with the are teacher. Just a suggestion to donate for reuse at a school or public library. Public libraries have craft programs that could also use donations to help with their kids craft programs.

[@MDCampbell]

Yes, definitely. I've been working closely with schools for years and donate all kinds of wonderful supplies to them. They are always grateful! :)

[@grazielafreitas5084]

Good evening, I live in Brazil / São Paulo. Could you tell me a store where to find to buy via the Internet, the Silver Black Velvet brushes? Thank you.

[@ciannacoleman5125]

Sigh, I’ve been using inexpensive multipurpose brushes the entire 15yrs I’ve been using watercolor, I really want these brushes now. Why are good supplies so expensive?

[@dezfraser]

How are these brushes holding out a year later. I'm looking into purchasing them?

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you for asking, Desiree Fraser! I admit, I still use them on a regular basis, but I also am a fanatic about keeping them clean, using a preserver when I store them, and keeping them within reach. With all the brushes I have, these are 100% in full rotation, which I'm glad to say. I'm pleased with my purchase and despite a few stray hairs (which I use a lighter and burn off, as opposed to cutting), here and there, they've been more than reliable. :)

[@travelvibes3656]

Hi, don’t know if you will see this as it’s an older video.... i am new to watercolour and I am waiting for a set of three of these I just ordered and can’t wait. I currently own a handful of brushes ( cheaper/poorer quality) and lay them flat to dry. I am wondering if this will damage my brushes. Is it better to hang them? I use to store them upright until I heard that water will flow to the ferrule, yikes. Thanks, you have yourself a new subscriber!!

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you so much, TravelVibes365! I'm so glad you enjoyed this one. I just started a new project yesterday and when I was choosing brushes, I chose three and one of them was a Black Tulip. I don't use them exclusively, but now that I know them well enough, I know what their strengths are and I know what I don't like them for - which might be more important. I use them mostly for larger areas and not for fine details. I now have too many brushes I love, but more that are just okay. These sit more in the "love" category. lol! I hope you enjoy them! Best wishes ~ Mark

[@chelseasanroman6647]

Are the travel brush version the same quality as these?

[@MDCampbell]

I haven't tried the travel brush version, so unfortunately, I can't comment on them. Sorry.

[@robinjeree]

I have a question for you Mark, or anyone with a tip for me -- *My hand/fingers keep slipping down, over the ferrule towards the bristles on these brushes. Am I holding them incorrectly (developing some bad habit?) or is there a better brush design for me? Or something I can fit over these to make them more comfortable? Thanks for the help!

[@MDCampbell]

Honestly, RobinJeree, I don't think there's any right or wrong way to draw or paint. My perspective is that if the way you hold the tool is comfortable, works well, and you get the results you want, then there's no issue. However, it's actually kind of fun trying different positions on the brush or pencil, like holding it close the ferrule or holding it far from the ferrule. Like when you hold a pencil by the eraser with your index finger and thumb. I wouldn't use anything to fit over a brush, myself, but if it works for you, go for it! Anyhow, thank you for watching and again, hope this was a little helpful! Cheers! :)

[@jennifer_mertens]

I know this is an older comment, but I also had the same problem. Through trial and error, I realized I was holding the brush too low and gripping too hard. It's hard to break the habit of holding it like a pen or pencil. Just slightly loosening my grip and holding it about an inch higher almost solved my "slipping" problem immediately. I know your comment is 11 months old, but I thought I would share my experience, as it's sounds similar to your dilemma🙂.

[@elois367]

Thanks for the drying tip lol

[@jenniferburgess6518]

They last too !!!!

[@supme7558]

All naturals are my other favorite

[@hoya1894]

Do you have a link where I can buy it from?

[@MDCampbell]

I just bought them from Amazon, really. Here's the website of the company, though: www.silverbrush.com/3000s-black-velvetreg-series.html

[@snowball_from_earth]

I am desperately looking for an affordable synthetic watercolour brush that holds water well. Are there any suggestions you may have for me?

[@MDCampbell]

Hi Snowball! I find that, for me, the Grumbacher Goldenedge brushes and the Escoda Versatil brushes are extremely reliable and my regular go to brushes. After using the Silver Black Velvet brushes for a while, now, I still enjoy them, but find they are not my go to brushes. Just my 2¢. Hope it's helpful! :)

[@snowball_from_earth]

@@MDCampbell thank you very much!

[@kaitlinnichols3268]

Five years later - how have they held up?!

[@MDCampbell]

Has it been five years already? Wow. But you know what - they're still working like the day I bought them. Not my #1 brushes, but definitely right here next to me in my travel pouch. Bristles still form to a point, ferule still holds everything in place. Can't ask for much more!! Thank you for asking! :)

[@kaitlinnichols3268]

@@MDCampbell that’s awesome! I may have to invest in these at some point if they last that long! Thanks for the video

[@MDCampbell]

@@kaitlinnichols3268 yes, but I don't want to mislead you - I don't use them everyday or even as my go-to brushes. That said, they still work well for me and my needs. I never like to push products on others, but rather just share my impressions in the environment I work in. Again, I like them and if you decide to pick them up, I only hope you enjoy them too! ~ Mark

[@user-wickedflower]

Brushes do not follow a standard size so you cant say a size 10 silver brush is the same as a princeton neptune, they all size differently

[@hookedANDyarned]

in pretty sure some of those jar skidded off the camera 😂 tnx for the vid

[@UsmanQureshiNMC]

llooolll I love it COFFE BREAK

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you, Usman Qureshi! I admit... I do too! lol! :)

[@erosangelos9422]

Hi ,great video ,after the coffee break your voice volume went too far ,maybe coffee was too strong )), but like the video and very helpful ,thanks a lot for sharing with us) appreciate!

[@Lala_B]

Wasting coffee in that vase, use cheap beans or rice. lol

[@MDCampbell]

LOL!! But honestly, the smell in my office - even after all this time - is great! And about once a year, I remove the beans and heat them up so that the smell is as fresh as day one! lol!

[@Lala_B]

@@MDCampbell Hmmm… That actually does sound pretty fabulous. I take it back and heartily endorse your technique!😜😘

[@MDCampbell]

@@Lala_B sweet!!! Thank you! lol! :)

[@raquelalmeida9002]

Loved your 'drying box' idea! I have been strugling to do that effectively, thank you!