Best paint brushes

Start with the Purdy XL Elite Dale 1.5" angle sash — a pro-grade brush that holds a sharp edge for cutting in along trim and ceilings, and it's the one most painters reach for first. Pair it with a wider flat brush for walls.

Who the others suit:

• Purdy White Bristle Sprig flat — natural bristle for oil-based trim and doors, where synthetic brushes splay.
• Purdy Pro Extra Glide — a wider brush for latex on big wall areas; fewer passes, smoother lay-off.
• Linzer GOOD 3-piece set — a cheap starter trio (flat plus two angles) for touch-ups and small jobs.
• ARTIFY 25-piece set — if you meant art brushes: a broad synthetic set for acrylic and watercolor.
• Royal & Langnickel 25-piece — the budget pick for beginners and craft projects.

Skip the 16-piece decor set and the odd "Pro-Ergo" listing — neither is a real painting brush.