CraftKilnTested Craft Supplies
Paint BrushesPrinceton

Princeton Velvetouch Brush Set

The Princeton Velvetouch brush set is a strong, versatile choice for artists who want one brush family capable of handling watercolor, acrylic, gouache, and oil work without constantly switching tools.

The verdict

The Princeton Velvetouch brush set is a strong, versatile choice for artists who want one brush family capable of handling watercolor, acrylic, gouache, and oil work without constantly switching tools. Its blend of softness, spring, and paint-holding capacity makes it a reliable studio staple for hobbyists and professionals alike.

Quality94
Value95
Ease of use84

Key features

  • Synthetic Velvetouch fiber blend for softness and control
  • Assorted brush shapes: round, filbert, bright, and fan/angular
  • Seamless nickel-plated ferrules resist corrosion and loosening
  • Long, comfortable handles balanced for extended painting sessions
  • Works with watercolor, acrylic, oil, and gouache
  • Holds a substantial paint load for fewer reloads

What we liked

  • Versatile across multiple painting mediums
  • Excellent snap-back and point retention
  • Smooth, soft feel without sacrificing durability
  • Attractive, easy-to-identify handle design
  • Good value compared to natural hair brush sets
  • Suitable for both beginners and experienced artists

Worth noting

  • Fan brush in some sets feels flimsier than the others
  • Synthetic fibers can wear faster with heavy oil painting use
  • Limited larger sizes included in the standard set
  • Color of handle paint may chip with heavy use over time

Our review

The Princeton Velvetouch brush set brings together a synthetic blend of velvet-soft fibers designed to handle watercolor, acrylic, oil, gouache, and mixed media work with equal ease. Each brush in the series features a proprietary blend combining natural hair-like softness with the durability and spring of synthetic filaments, giving artists a versatile tool that holds its shape wash after wash. The signature deep purple handles and rich copper ferrules make these brushes instantly recognizable on any studio table or in any travel case. What sets Velvetouch apart is the unique fiber taper that allows for both fine detail work and broad wash coverage from the same brush. The synthetic blend is engineered to hold more paint than typical synthetic brushes, reducing the need for constant reloading and allowing for longer, smoother strokes. Whether you are laying in soft watercolor washes, blending oils, or building acrylic textures, the Velvetouch line responds with a snap-back resilience that keeps tips crisp even after repeated use. This set typically includes a curated mix of shapes—rounds, filberts, brights, and a fan or angular shader—so artists can move between techniques without switching brush lines. Seamless nickel-plated ferrules resist loosening and corrosion, while the double-crimped construction keeps bristles secure through vigorous scrubbing or lifting techniques. It is a favorite among watercolorists and mixed media artists who want one brush family to serve multiple painting styles.

Specifications

Brush Count
6-piece set
Fiber Type
Synthetic Velvetouch blend
Ferrule Material
Nickel-plated brass
Handle Length
7.5 inches
Recommended Media
Watercolor, acrylic, oil, gouache

What reviewers say

MMarla Jensen2024-02-14★★★★★

My go-to watercolor set now

I switched from natural hair brushes to this Velvetouch set and honestly don't miss them. The rounds hold a great point and the paint flow is smooth and consistent.

DDevon Okafor2023-11-02★★★★★

Great for mixed media

I use these for acrylic and ink work. The filbert and bright shapes are fantastic for blending. The fan brush included feels a bit weaker than the rest of the set though.

PPriya Chandran2024-05-30★★★★★

Excellent value

These perform like much pricier natural hair brushes. I've had mine for months of regular use and the tips are still crisp and springy.

TTom Reilly2023-08-19★★★★★

Solid all-purpose brushes

I mainly use these for oils and they hold up well, though I do notice a bit more fraying compared to my hog bristle brushes after heavy impasto work.