The Princeton RealValue Brush Set is a four-piece collection of natural-hair brushes with dark blue handles, aimed at artists who need a basic set without spending much. It includes a flat, a bright, a round, and a filbert—shapes that cover most foundational techniques in acrylic and oil painting. The brushes are made with natural hair, likely a blend of hog bristle or similar, which gives them stiffness and spring. The handles are lacquered dark blue and feel solid enough for regular use. Ferrules are seamless and double-crimped, which helps prevent shedding and corrosion. Overall, the set is utilitarian: it does what it says, but it doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not.
In practice, these brushes are best suited for acrylics and oils, where their stiffness helps move thick paint. The flat and bright are workhorses for blocking in shapes and applying broad strokes, while the round and filbert handle details and blending. The natural hair holds a decent amount of paint, but it can be a bit coarse, leaving visible brush marks—something to keep in mind if you prefer smooth blends. For watercolor, they’re less ideal: natural hair tends to be too stiff and absorbent, and the brushes may not point as sharply as synthetic alternatives. They also require more careful cleaning, as natural hair can be damaged by harsh solvents or leaving paint to dry in the ferrule.
One limitation is the lack of size variety: the four brushes are all around size 6–8, which means you’ll need to supplement with smaller or larger brushes for finer details or large washes. The handles are also on the shorter side, which some artists might find less comfortable for long sessions, especially when working on a large canvas. Additionally, natural hair brushes can shed occasionally, particularly when new, so you might find stray hairs in your paint. The set is not intended for heavy-duty use; the bristles may splay over time with aggressive scrubbing.
Compared to synthetic brush sets in the same price range, such as those from Royal & Langnickel or Arteza, the RealValue set offers a different experience. Synthetics tend to be more durable and easier to clean, and they hold their shape better for detail work. However, natural hair provides a traditional feel that some painters prefer for oil and acrylics, especially when using thicker paints. If you’re looking for a set that will last through years of daily painting, this might not be it. But for occasional use or for trying out natural hair brushes, it’s a reasonable entry point.
Who is this for? Beginners or students who want to experiment with natural hair brushes without committing to a high-end set. It’s also suitable for hobbyists who paint occasionally and need a basic set for acrylic or oil projects. It is not for professional artists who require precise control and longevity, nor for watercolorists who need soft, absorbent brushes. Those who prefer vegan brushes should look elsewhere, as this set uses animal hair. Also, if you frequently work with heavy-body acrylics and need brushes that can withstand rough handling, synthetic options might be more practical.
In terms of value, the Princeton RealValue set is priced affordably, often under $15. For that, you get four brushes that perform adequately for basic tasks. They won’t rival artist-grade brushes, but they don’t claim to. The dark blue handles are a nice touch, making them easy to spot in a jar. The set is also easy to find online and in art supply stores. However, consider that you might outgrow them quickly if you paint regularly. The lack of a size range means you’ll likely need to buy additional brushes soon. Also, natural hair brushes require more maintenance: clean them thoroughly after each use with mild soap and water, reshape the bristles, and store them flat or upright to avoid water seeping into the ferrule.
Overall, the Princeton RealValue Brush Set is a straightforward, no-frills option for those testing the waters with natural hair brushes. It has its place in a beginner’s toolkit, but it’s not a long-term investment. If you’re looking for a set that will grow with you, you might be better off spending a bit more on a synthetic set with a wider range of sizes or a higher-quality natural hair set from a brand like Rosemary & Co. But for the price, it’s hard to complain.