Van Gogh round watercolor brush, Toray fiber, No. 8

"Toray" brushes are very popular among artists for their softness and excellent paint retention; they offer a fine, soft tip, ideal for wet techniques. In its round shape, it is, in my opinion, the most versatile for any painting subject. Toray fiber is a type of premium synthetic for brushes, while natural hair (such as sable, goat, or hog) comes from animals. Toray fiber absorbs and retains watery paint well, being similar to natural sable hair, but without degrading over time. Toray resists wear better, does not lose its shape or shed bristles, and is more economical and vegan. Natural hair is damaged by intensive use, requires careful cleaning to prevent mold, and is more expensive.