Some people might find that holding a paint brush comes naturally to them, and others might find that they’re always wondering why achieving certain types of brush strokes might be difficult. This is because that the way in which you hold your paint brush will determine the level of control you have over your brush strokes. Try to grasp the handle of the paint brush in the same way you’d hold a pencil for the most comfortable and secure grip.

When you hold the paint brush near to the bristles, you’ll have better control, this will allow you to make strokes that are more precise and specific. If you want to extend your reach, hold the paint brush higher up the handle than you normally would. 

When you move, be careful to do it using your shoulders and not your wrists. Scumbling and dry brushing are both made easier by holding the brush in a flat position to the canvas. If you hold the brush vertically, you’ll create very fine brush strokes. On the other hand, if you hold the brush at an angle, you’ll create brush strokes that are more expansive. If you hold the paintbrush in a variety of ways, you’ll get a range of distinct strokes.
Looking for more? Check out some cool tricks you can do with your paint brush here (brush techniques) or check out more of our handy how-to videos.

Notes:
−    How you hold your paint brush will give control over the paint strokes 
−    The easiest way to hold a paint brush is to try gripping it like a pencil 
−    Holding the brush close to the bristle will give you more control
−    Hold brush handle further back for more reach
−    Use your shoulder to move not your wrist 
−    Holding the brush flat to the canvas makes it easier for techniques like scumbling and dry brushing
−    Holding a brush vertically gives very thin brush strokes
−    Holding at an angle can give broader strokes 
−    Vary the hold to get the different strokes