I made a purchase I thought I’d most likely regret.
But for $12.99 I was willing to take the risk!

Watercolor Brushes
I’ve been using and recommending the Rekab 320s #2 squirrel watercolor brush for 20+ years. Many of my Art Basics, watercolor posts have the brush mentioned, frequently.
New Brush to Try
A local art store has just released a watercolor brush ‘Holcroft Sapphire synthetic’ watercolor brush. (Riot Arts and Craft, in Perth Australia)
I had a look. A second look. And decided to try it.
Perhaps it might be a useful brush if students wanted to wait a bit to purchase the $28- $30 Rekab. It was worth a test. So I made the purchase.
Thoughts on Holcroft #2
After a few experiments with the new synthetic Holcroft I have a few thoughts!
- For the $12.99 it is a decent brush.
- The brush has quite a delicate fine tip, which I like.
- Its carrying capacity, ability to hold lots of paint – is decent.
- This means, there is NO ‘dobbing’ of the paint.
- The paint brush stroke is Long, fluid and flowing.
- I’m able to come close, to what I can achieve with the Rekab.
- Not 100% but maybe 80% which is pretty good for a synthetic.
- Its long handle, has a good feel – sensitive.
- Not clunky.
- Acrylics in a wet, fluid form can be used with the brush.
- Make sure though, to keep the brush rinsed clean, constantly.
I can recommend this brush.
But, I honestly still…. prefer the lovely sensitivity of the Rekab 320s better.
Its great to have options. $12.99 as a ‘tide me over’ and $28 as a ‘special birthday gift’ Sounds reasonable to me!
Good post I am with you though I rather go with the Rekab 320S brush, if I can find it, that is! I was in town today just looking at brushes but their selection was hardly anything worth while. I hate shopping for brushes on line because I have no clue on the size and the feel.
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I’m sure you could turn out beautiful artwork no matter which brush you use, but you deserve to have something that makes you happy. Go for it.
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Good info, I just bought my children some brushes.
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thanks!!
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Great post, Debi! Love your review of this brush. I’ve stayed with my Escoda, but have wanted to try the Rekab for quite some time now. Sounds like a perfect birthday gift to request in April! 😉
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thanks Charlie, glad you enjoyed this!
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