Selecting the right brush depends on the type of paint you're using and the size of the surface you'll be painting. Using a variety of brushes throughout different areas of a space will ensure a clean and crisp application.

Natural-bristle brushes made with animal hairs are used for applying oil base paints, varnishes, shellac, polyurethane and other oil base finishes. The natural "flagging" (splitting or fuzzy tips) of these brushes creates split ends in the bristles that hold more paint and help assure a smooth paint release and finish.

Blended nylon/polyester brushes are easy to clean and work well with all types of latex paints. The combination of nylon's durability and polyester's shape retention is the mark of a high-quality brush — one that also produces a high-quality paint finish. 

These durable paint brushes are built to handle numerous projects. So, with proper care, nylon/polyester brushes should last for years.

Polyester brushes are best for latex paints. These brushes hold their shape and stiffness in any paint and apply paint smoothly and evenly.

Sherwin-Williams paintbrushes are available in widths from 1 to 4 inches. The size you select is up to you, but a good rule of thumb is:

• 1" to 2" for windows and other small trim
• 3" for glossy paints on doors and cabinets
• 4" for large, flat areas
  

Chisel trim brushes have slanted bristles that produce a good, straight line for trimming in corners and edges.

Square trim brushes have bristles that are cut square and used primarily for applying paint over flat areas.

Angled brushes have bristles that are cut to make it easier to apply paint to window trim.

Thin angle sashes have slanted bristles and a thin profile produce a good, straight line for trimming in corners and edges.

Angle sashes feature slanted bristles and holds more paint than its thin counterpart. Excellent for cutting in at the ceiling or painting trim.

Flat sashes have bristles that are straight across and used primarily for applying paint over flat areas.

Trim is a flat brush that is excellent for painting large flat surfaces, especially exterior siding.

Wall is a thick flat brush that holds a larger amount of paint. Excellent for painting larger surface areas.

Browse our paint brushes online.

Rollers can paint large, flat surfaces in much less time than it would take using a brush. Sherwin-Williams Roller Covers are available in multiple fabric types (synthetic, natural or blend) to match the type of paint used and in several pile depths appropriate for different surfaces.

Synthetic covers (nylon, dacron or polyester) is ideal for most latex paints.

Natural covers (mohair or sheepskin) should be used with oil-based paints. If used with latex paints, the water in the paint may swell the fibers, causing them to become matted.

Blended covers (polyester / wool blend) combines the extra pickup of wool with polyester for longer life. They can be used with all paints.

Pile depth refers to the thickness of the roller cover's fiber nap. It's essential to choose the right pile depth for the surface you're painting. Sherwin-Williams offers six pile depths to meet almost any painting project:

• Very smooth for metal doors and plaster
• Smooth for drywall
• Semi-smooth for drywall
• Semi-rough for rough wood and acoustic tile
• Rough for textured ceilings and stucco finishes
• Very rough for concrete block, brick and fences

Use a thinner nap of ¼" or ⅜" when painting a smooth or slightly textured surface.

Use a thicker nap of ½" or more when:

• The surface you’re covering is porous like masonry, textured like stucco or a stippled ceiling, or has nooks and crannies like brick and mortar.
• You're applying a thicker paint or a heavier coating to any surface.

Thicker naps hold more paint so that it will spread more evenly and reach deeper into these types of surfaces. 

Pad applicators are versatile enough for use inside or outside your home. These painting tools are ideal for exterior siding, concrete block, shakes, shingles and fences. They also work well on interior walls, ceilings, floors and doors.

Pad applicators are perfect for latex or oil base paints, stains, sealers or wallpaper paste. Pads produce a smooth paint finish without the spatter that rollers sometimes cause.

Paint edgers are a version of pad applicators that eliminate the need for masking. They're designed for use on ceilings, doors, windows and baseboards.
Tip: For greater reach on walls and ceilings, attach your roller to an extension pole. Most rollers screw easily onto the pole just like a push broom.

Browse our paint roller covers online.

Click here for a printable tip sheet on roller cover and brush selection.