Brushes with synthetic bristles should have what ends to assure smooth application of paint?

• A. Tapered ends
• B. Flag ends
• C. Rounded ends
• D. Square ends

Answer: (B)

Smooth paint application with synthetic brushes comes from how the bristle tips contact the surface. Flag ends are split tips that fan out and flex as you stroke, increasing surface contact and creating a soft, feathered edge. This allows the brush to lay down paint evenly and without visible brush marks, giving a smoother coat. The split tips also hold more paint and release it gradually as you move the brush, which helps blend strokes rather than leaving harsher lines.

Other end shapes can behave differently: tapered ends tend to be stiffer at the tip and can leave streaks; rounded ends provide a blunt contact that may drag and leave uneven patches; and square ends create a sharp edge that can produce noticeable lines or ticks in the finish. Thus, flag ends are the best choice for a smooth, even application with synthetic bristles.