If you dread spending hours taping off trim or doing frustrating touch-ups while painting, it’s likely because you don’t have the right brush. An angled brush specially designed for cutting in can transform the way you paint, saving you time, effort and money.
We’ll review the top-rated brands on the market and provide tips for choosing the perfect brush for your next project.
How Angled Brushes Help You Cut In Like a Pro
Cutting in refers to the technique of painting clean, defined edges where two different colors meet, like where a wall joins the ceiling or trim. An angled brush tapered to a fine edge is ideal for this detail work.
The angled shape and tapered bristles allow you to precisely trim borders and easily maneuver into tight corners. This gives you straight edges without the paint bleeding onto adjacent surfaces. A quality angled brush means perfectly crisp cut in lines without having to meticulously tape off edges or do extensive touch ups.
Advantages of Angled Brushes
- Reach tight corners and cut in edges with ease
- Create defined borders between colors or surfaces
- Trim detail areas like moldings and trim work
- Maneuver well for edging, sash windows, and other tasks
- Reduce time spent taping off surfaces
- Minimize painting mistakes and touch ups
With an angled brush designed for cutting in, you can save significant time prepping surfaces and achieve professional looking results. The right brush gives you expert level cutting in skills.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for the best angled brush for cutting in, there are a few key features to evaluate:
Bristle Type
The ideal bristle for cutting in is soft enough for control yet stiff enough to hold its shape. Look for brushes with a blend of soft and stiff bristles. Synthetic bristles are a good option since they can be used with both latex and oil paints.
Bristle Stiffness
The stiffness of the bristles affects the finish of your cut lines. Softer bristles flex to surfaces for a smooth finish. Stiffer bristles hold their shape but can leave more visible brush marks.
Brush Head Shape
An angled brush head tapers to a fine edge or tip. Some have curved edges to better contour around moldings or irregular surfaces. Choose a shape suited to your project.
Handle Length
Shorter handles allow you to easily maneuver into tight spaces while painting. Longer handles give you more leverage and control on broader surfaces.
Weight
Lighter brushes offer precision but don’t carry much paint. Heavier brushes hold more paint but aren’t as nimble.
| Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Soft flexible bristles | Conform to surfaces for smooth finish |
| Stiff bristles | Maintain shape and offer control |
| Angled brush head | Tapers to fine tip for precision |
| Shorter handle | Easy to maneuver in tight spaces |
| Longer handle | Provides leverage on broader surfaces |
| Lightweight brush | Improves nimbleness and accuracy |
| Heavier brush | Holds more paint for less dipping |
Price
Higher quality brushes cost more but can save effort and hassle by getting the job done faster. There are also good options under $15 if you’re on a tight budget.
Other Considerations
Also look at the warranty, customer service, comfort features and whether eco-friendly materials were used. An ergonomic handle can help reduce fatigue.
Reviews of the Top Cut In Paint Brushes
Now that you know what to look for, here are reviews of top choices:
Purdy Clearcut
Purdy’s Clearcut brush is consistently rated the best for cutting in walls and ceilings. Its fine angled edge provides precision trimming. Stiff nylon and polyester bristles give a smooth finish. The short handle offers control.
Wooster Pro
This Wooster brush excels at trim and edging work. The beveled tip shapes to edges nicely. Softer polyester bristles provide a consistent finish. It has a comfortable cork handle and lighter weight.
Shur-Line Edger
If you’re on a budget, Shur-Line makes a quality angled edger brush for less than $10. It has a chisel edge and decent bristle blend. The handle is short for easy maneuvering.
| Brand | Price | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purdy Clearcut | $$$ | Ceilings, walls | Precise angled edge, stiff bristles, short handle | On the expensive side |
| Wooster Pro | $$ | Trim, edges | Beveled tip, soft bristles, cork handle | Bristles can wear quickly |
| Shur-Line Edger | $ | Budget choice | Chisel edge, decent quality, maneuverable | Won’t last as long as pricier brushes |
Cutting In Techniques and Tips
Choosing the right brush is the first step. Proper technique is also key for flawless cutting in results.
Hold the Brush at Approximately 45 Degrees
Holding the brush at a slight angle allows you to just skim along the edge of surfaces for fine lines. Don’t press too hard or drag perpendicular to the surface.
Use Short, Overlapping and Parallel Brush Strokes
Use short 1 to 2 inch strokes following along the edge. Overlap strokes for complete coverage without gaps. Parallel strokes result in straighter edges.
Consider Using a Mahl Stick
A mahl stick helps brace your painting hand for steadier strokes and cleaner cut in lines.
When to Tape vs Cut In Freehand
Tape sensitive surfaces, but cut in freehand once you’ve developed the skill. Taping takes time.
Achieve a Professional Finish
Take your time, don’t overload the brush, gently feather out edges and use a light touch. Patience and practice lead to expert results.
An angled brush designed for cutting in trim, edges and borders makes all the difference when painting. Choosing a brush with an optimized shape, bristle type and thickness tremendously simplifies the process. Look for tapered bristles with a blend of softness and stiffness.
The time savings add up across large painting projects. And you’ll eliminate the frustration of excessive touch ups or uneven lines. Be sure to pick a width suited to your needs. A quality angled brush like the Purdy Clearcut enhances your skills so you can achieve professional looking results.
With some technique practice and the right cutting in brush, you can paint. Investing in the proper tools pays off in time and hassle saved. Your inner professional painter will shine through with perfect cut in lines and minimal touchups. The next time you paint, cut hours from your prep time with a top-rated angled brush designed to help you cut in fast.
