not conducive to the moral, mental, or physical condition of the painter. If this fact be considered and estimated in the cost, to expense of a good brush will be more than counterbalanced by the comfort and convenience in its working qualities ; and is not what may seem to the inexperienced and excessive or unnecessary expenditure.
A few Brushes, provided they are of the right kind, are sufficient for almost any kind of work. They can instantly be cleansed in alcohol, and be used freely to apply several successive colors.
It is advisable to use a large a brush as can be conveniently handled. A beginner's timidity induces the selecting of too small brushes, but it is better to become accustomed to large brushes in the very beginning. If the handling of a large brush is under control, a small one is easily managed ; but if, on the contrary, only small brushes are used, when it becomes necessary to use a large one, it will be awkward and unmanageable, and give more or less trouble.
Those who have never handled brushes before will find it just as easy to acquire the use of a large one as a small one ; those who have become habituated to the use of Small brushes cannot discontinue the practice too soon. Paint may be laid on more quickly and more smoothly by the large brush.
It is impossible to lay a uniform tint or a grad-
