The history of brushmaking – from artists' craft to a traditional trade

When artists made their own brushes

Until the end of the 17th century, making artist brushes was simply part of every painter's work. Anyone who wanted to paint had to make their own brushes and carefully select the right materials. Even then, a brush's quality determined precision, paint retention, and the expressive power of a work of art. Knowledge of brushmaking was therefore an essential part of artistic practice.

As demand for high-quality artist brushes grew, brushmaking evolved into an independent craft during the 18th century. Specialized brushmakers produced brushes with ever-greater precision, making professional-quality art materials accessible to an increasing number of artists.

Nuremberg – How brushmaking earned worldwide recognition

The historic trading city of Nuremberg played a defining role in the history of brushmaking. Here, the production of premium artist brushes developed into a renowned craft that gained recognition far beyond Germany's borders. Brushmakers from Nuremberg became synonymous with exceptional quality, skilled craftsmanship, and innovative manufacturing techniques—qualities that continue to shape the region's reputation today.

The pride in this profession was remarkable. Even around the turn of the 20th century, many Nuremberg brushmakers arrived at work wearing frock coats and bowler hats. Their elegant attire reflected their identity as highly skilled craftsmen and highlighted the prestige of traditional brushmaking.

Brushmaking today – Tradition with a future

Today, brushmaking remains a demanding and increasingly rare craft. At da Vinci, this expertise has been preserved for generations and continues to be passed on to the next generation. Those wishing to become a brushmaker complete a three-year apprenticeship that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern production techniques.

During their training, apprentices learn to work with a wide variety of natural hairs and synthetic fibers, master the precise shaping and tying of brush heads, and process every component with expert care. Every single step requires dexterity, experience, and exceptional precision—the qualities that still define premium artist brushes today.

Although modern machinery now supports certain production stages, many premium artist brushes are still crafted by hand. In particular, shaping, quality inspection, and finishing remain the work of experienced brushmakers. This is how da Vinci creates durable artist brushes that are valued around the world for their quality, precision, and reliability—made in Germany and rooted in a craft that has endured for centuries.

A look inside our brush workshop: