The Painter's Toolbox

The painter relies on several tools to produce works of art. One primary tool is the brush--the traditional means of applying paint to a surface. In early times, animal hair was used to form the brush (and some brushes today are still made of animal hair); however, modern technology has also enabled the production of brushes made of synthetic fibers.

Another tool is the palette—a tray on which paint can be mixed and kept for easy access. Modern palettes often have recessed areas for the different paint hues.

The easel is a stand to hold the artist’s canvas, or other painting surface, known as a support. Most easels permit adjustment in height and width for a comfortable working area.