The Series 88 rigger shape is similar to a Pointed Round, but with much longer hair, also referred to as a 'script' or a 'liner' brush. These are ideal for long, continuous strokes and have a large More Info. The Series 88 rigger shape is similar to a Pointed Round, but with much longer hair, also referred to as a 'script' or a 'liner' brush. These are ideal for long, continuous strokes and have a large More Info. Round brush - this is the most versatile shape of brush for painting. Rigger brush - these have extra long hairs with a fine point. Good for continuous lines because they hold water well. Filbert brush - this is a flat brush with an oval shape. Good for blending because the hairs hold together when wet, but not commonly used for watercolors.
Uses
Script or liner brushes are small round brushes that are used for the creation of lettering or thin lines. The similar rigger brush was initially developed to paint the rigging in sail boats…hence the name. Script, liner and rigger brushes are sometimes considered the same; however, the rigger brush’s bristles are substantially longer. When painting a long thin line, it is often problematic to run out of paint half way through the stroke. It is very difficult to reload the brush and continue the line without creating a noticeable juncture of the two strokes. The long bristles of a rigger brush have the capacity to hold enough paint to make a seamless stroke in one motion.
Rigger Paint Brush
A key component of making a long consistent-width, thin line with the rigger or liner brush is controlling the paint consistency. With watercolors and acrylics, the paint can be thinned with water. In the case of oils, a medium is used to thin the paint. Thick paints will not give you the effect of a thin line. Other factors will also contribute to the overall appearance of the stroke as well. When fine detail work is desired, a smoothly-prepared support will yield a better results compared to a support with a rough texture, such as, a rough canvas. Lastly, the amount of pressure applied to the brush will effect the width of the line. Applying more pressure will cause the bristles to spread out and create a wider line.
Paint Brush Drawing
Summary
The script, liner and rigger brush can create very thin lines used in the creation of lettering, ship rigging, vegetation, etc. However, the brush is only part of the equation. Paint consistency, support surface texture, and application pressure also contribute greatly to a successful stroke. As always, this technique requires practice to perfect. Please be sure to read about other paint brushes and their uses here.