Ed’s Favorite Ceramic Brushes: What’s in His Kit (and Why They Work So Well)

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Whether you’re detailing slip work, layering underglaze, or just trying to avoid fuzzy lines and brush streaks, finding the right brush can feel like a lifelong search. I get it. So I’m opening up my own brush roll and showing you exactly what I use in my studio every week.

Spoiler: these brushes aren’t just pretty. They perform.

🎯 Not sure which brush is right for you? Take the quiz below to find your perfect match based on what you’re working on.

The Right Brush for the Job (Studio Edition)

Answer a few quick questions and I’ll match you with the brush that fits your ceramic needs. Whether you’re chasing clean lines or brushing on broad matte glazes, this quiz has your back.

What are you trying to do?

Do you prefer a brush set or single brush?

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy through some links on this page, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Every tool I recommend has been tested in real studio conditions.

What Makes a Great Ceramic Detailing Brush?

A good brush isn’t just about bristles. It needs to:

Hold just enough glaze or underglaze without dripping
Release smoothly (no blobs)
Maintain its shape after cleaning
Feel balanced in your hand

I always look for natural or soft synthetic fibers, medium-short handles, and tip memory that lasts more than a few firings.

Ed’s Brush Picks (and Why I Swear by Them)

1. No. 6 Liner Brush

Split visual showing a Sumi brush with dark brown pointed bristles and a beige handle on the left, and a ceramic pot on the right labeled with texture effects—stippling, dry brush, wash gradients, and thin linework demonstrating the brush’s expressive range for ceramic surface decoration.

“I use this for slip lines, signature detailing, and anywhere I need flow control. Holds a surprising amount of pigment without flooding.”

Long tip for extended strokes
Great for underglaze line work
Keeps a tight point even when wet

🛍️ Get it here

2. Soft Fan Mop Brush

Split image showing a soft fan mop brush with bright yellow bristles and a blue handle on the left, and a dry brush stroke on the right labeled ‘Dry brush,’ demonstrating its effect on a ceramic surface.

*”This one’s my glazing beast. Quick, wide coverage without disturbing the texture underneath.”

Fan spread perfect for layered applications
Soft enough not to lift previous layers
I use this for crackle and ash glazes

🛍️ Get it here

3. Flat Shader Brush

Split image featuring a flat shader brush with orange-brown bristles and a blue handle on the left, and a smooth wash gradient stroke on the right labeled ‘Wash gradients,’ illustrating the brush’s versatility for broad, even applications on ceramic surfaces.

“For controlled base coating. It’s like painting drywall, but on a cup. Smooths right over bisque.”

Broad, even application
Great for layering matte glazes
I prefer the 1″ width version

🛍️ Get it here

4. Sumi Brush (Large Tip)

Split image showing a Sumi brush with a long, pointed tip and beige handle on the left, and a ceramic pot on the right with labeled brush effects stippling, dry brush, wash gradients, and thin linework demonstrating the brush’s dynamic range for ceramic decoration.

“I use this for expressive brush marks, oxide washes, or just when I’m in a flow state.”

Natural hair = superior loading & release
Ideal for washes and spontaneous texture
Holds a TON of pigment

🛍️ Get it here

What’s in the Full Kit?

I bundled my 4 favorites into one easy brush set so you don’t have to guess or experiment.

Includes:

FAQs

Are these brushes good for beginners?
Yep. They’re beginner-friendly but pro-grade. You’ll feel the difference instantly.

Can I use them for both underglaze and glaze?
Absolutely. I do it all the time. Just make sure to clean well between sessions.

What makes these better than a cheap Amazon set?
Control, balance, and quality. The tips hold shape. The application is smooth. They last longer.

What if I just want one or two?
I link to them individually above. Or grab the full set and skip the guesswork.

Final Takeaway

If your brushwork is feeling sloppy, inconsistent, or just “meh,” don’t blame your hands. Upgrade your tools.

👉 Grab my Brush Set Today and take the guesswork out of glaze and detail work.

“Brush quality is next level I use the liner every day for slip trailing.” – Clara W., Artabys reader

These are the brushes I actually use. And now, so can you.

Who’s Ed? (That’s Me.)

Ed Shears Editor and Author at Artabys.com

I’ve been working in the ceramic world for 35+ years. From wheel throwing to underglaze detailing to layering specialty glazes I’ve done it all. And through all those firings, flops, and glaze experiments, I’ve come to trust a small handful of brushes that just get the job done.

If I had to start over tomorrow, these are the brushes I’d rebuy immediately.