The process of restoring a brush caked with hardened pigment involves dissolving the hardened material and restoring the bristles to a usable state. A common scenario might involve a brush left unattended after a painting session, resulting in a solid mass of acrylic or oil paint within the brush head.
Proper maintenance of painting tools extends the lifespan of these implements, saving resources and minimizing waste. Historically, methods for brush restoration have evolved alongside paint technology, from simple turpentine soaks to modern enzyme-based solutions. Effectively salvaging brushes represents a cost-effective and environmentally sound practice for artists and craftspeople.