ESCODA Ultimo (1526) Synthetic Squirrel Watercolour Travel Brush - Round - Size 16 (9.7 x 40mm)

The softest, thirstiest travel brush from Escoda

A brush for loose washes, expressive skies and flowing colour. Made in Spain from Escoda's premium Tendo synthetic fibre, it closely mimics natural squirrel hair while remaining completely vegan. The result is exceptional water holding capacity combined with a surprisingly fine point for controlled brushwork. The clever travel design keeps the brush protected in your sketch kit. 

What sets it apart

• Holds an exceptional amount of water for large washes
• Ultra soft synthetic fibres that perform like natural squirrel hair
• Fine point allows surprisingly delicate detail
• Protective travel handle keeps the brush safe in your bag
• 100% vegan synthetic fibre
  

Feel in the hand

It feels clever. Reverse the handle to form a full length professional brush, then cap it again when you're ready to move onto the next location.

Who it's for

• Plein air painting
• Watercolour landscapes
• Large washes and skies
  
• Artists who prefer soft, flowing brushstrokes
• Artists looking for water holding capacity

Not for

• Artists needing control
• Subject matters requiring detail
• Those who expect a springy brush like Verstail
• Miniaturists
  

Practical tips

This brush is the wash specialist, and in the larger sizes the point is also good enough to complete a whole painting. Escoda sizes run one size smaller than most other brands.

FAQs

How is Ultimo different to Versatil?
Ultimo uses the soft Tendo fibre, designed to mimic the softness of squirrel, whereas Versatil has more spring and responsiveness, making it better suited to precise strokes.

What size brush should I choose?
For travel sketching we recommend Size 6, 8 or 10 to avoid flooding the sketchbook page. Larger sizes are obviously needed if you are painting lots of washes or using paper larger than A4. The size measurement included in the title is the brush head diametre x brush length (mm).

How do I clean the brush?
Avoid getting pigment or water inside the ferrule. Wash the brush promptly after use, reshape the tip to insert it back into the handle without catching any fibres. A hole in the end of the tube lets air in to help finish the drying.

Specifications

• Brand: Escoda
• Series: 1526
• Brush Shape: Pointed Round
• Brush Fibre: Tendo Synthetic (Synthetic Squirrel)
• Handle: Reversible travel handle with protective cap
• Suitable for: Watercolour, gouache and ink
• Made in: Spain
• Sizes: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 16 (size 10 shown in image).

Perfect for the closest synthetic experience to a traditional squirrel mop, without using natural hair.