A kolinsky sable-hair brush is a fine artists' paintbrush. The hair is obtained from the tail of the kolinsky, a species of weasel rather than an actual sable. The "finest" brushes are made from the male hair only, but most brushes have a mix of about 60/40 male-to-female hair.

What is sable brush used for?

Kolinsky sable brushes are used for watercolor, acrylic, and oil paint and are a great choice for detail work, thanks to the fineness of the bristles. See the best brushes below.

What is a sable brush?

A kolinsky sable-hair brush (also known as red sable or sable hair brush) is a fine artists' paintbrush. The hair is obtained from the tail of the kolinsky (Mustela sibirica), a species of weasel rather than an actual sable.