For mixed media artists, “the world is our canvas” translates to “We use ANYTHING that can be painted, textured, layered, sprayed, stamped and waxed no matter its shape or form.”
Decorated paintbrushes have been around for a few years. I’ve wanted to make one, but really didn’t know where to start. After wasting a fair bit of time, it occurred to me, the same principle applies to starting and creating any project; create one layer at a time.

This brush started out as a cheap dollar store paintbrush. Because the handle was some sort of plastic composite, a good coat of white gesso was in order. Gesso is the base coat for most art projects and helps paints and sprays stay put instead of rolling off. When using gesso, make sure you place a good coat on the bristles. The gesso will hold the bristles together as well as create a good base coat for paints and sprays.

My newest love is using polymer clay and Prima Marketing moulds (molds) to make embellishments. I used the moulds to make the face, wings and ornamental leaf.
To add color and glimmer, I used Lindy’s Stamp Gang sprays and then slathered some gold crackle paste on the handle for more texture. Of course I had to use the new Finnabair waxes to add some highlights. Added small beads to give the look of dripping black paint. The focus piece on the leaf came from my stash of old jewelry.
Thanks for looking. Let me know if you want more information such as a full product list with colors or more details.
I’m entering this piece in the Re-purpose, Re-use, Recycle challenge on the Frilly and Funkie Blog.
Another unique creation, Judy.
Thanks Reva. Appreciate you having a look and your support!
https://welove2create.blogspot.com/
Lovely project, what a fab idea to turn a brush into your project. Thank you for sharing with the DT from We Love To Create, Hugs Terry (DT) xxx
Love your altered paintbrush! Those molded pieces look fabulous on there and the beads is such a unique twist! I am tickled pink you made this beautiful artwork for our Re-Purpose, Re-Use, Recycle Challenge at Frilly and Funkie! Hugs!
Lovely altered paintbrush! Awesome job with the moulds too. Thanks so much for joining us at Frilly and Funkie.
Thank you so much. I’m enjoying all the inspiration from the design team!
Awesome re-cycle of a paint brush. So many beautiful rich texture and colors you incorporated and the mould is beautiful. Thanks for playing along in the Re-Use, Re-Purpose and Re-Cycle challenge at Frilly and Funkie!
Thanks so much for your compliments. I’m enjoying the challenges.
Great idea and design. Thank you for joining us at Love 2 Create challenges.
Thanks for making me feel welcome!
Oh Judy that’s gorgeous!!! The bejewelling and opalescent colours give this such an opulent look. Thank you for joining us for this challenge at Frilly and Funkie xx
Thank you so much for the encouragement.