brush
An implement used for the application of paste.
glue, or other adhesive liquid, powder, glair,
etc., to the surface of paper, board, cloth,
leather, or other material. A brush is composed of
a gathering of hair or bristles (natural brushes),
or some synthetic material. secured in a plastic
compound and held in a metal ferrule which is
crimped around a handle. A high quality brush
always has the natural tips of the hairs or
bristles. The various shapes of brushes are
achieved by cutting, trimming, and fashioning the
root (butt) ends of the hairs. A pointed brush,
for example, is shaped by inserting the hairs,
tips downward, in a brass "cannon," in the size
and shape made for the purpose, and trimming them
at the root end. Very superior brushes have a
considerable hold of hair within the ferrule,
sometimes as much as is seen beyond the ferrule,
while cheaper brushes have but little hold. (66 , 233 )
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