A cutting-in brush is used by pressing the filaments (bristles) into the wall to make them fan out, and then making a long, smooth stroke when cutting in around trim. This technique is called "blooming."
Here's a more detailed explanation:
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Load the Brush: Dip the brush into the paint, but don't overload it. Too much paint will drip and make it difficult to control. Aim for about 1/3 of the bristle length.
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Tap off Excess: Gently tap the brush against the inside of the paint can or use a damp cloth to remove excess paint. This prevents drips and splatters.
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Blooming (Fanning Out): Gently press the filaments of the brush against the wall near the edge you want to paint. This action spreads the bristles out slightly, creating a controlled "fan" of paint. This "blooming" allows for a precise application.
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Smooth Stroke: Once the bristles are bloomed, bring the brush in line with the corner or edge you're cutting in. Then, make a long, smooth, and even stroke along the trim or edge. Maintain consistent pressure.
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Reload and Repeat: Reload the brush as needed, repeating the steps above to continue cutting in.
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Overlap Slightly: When making subsequent strokes, slightly overlap the previous painted area to ensure consistent coverage and avoid any gaps.
By using the blooming technique and making smooth strokes, you can achieve a clean and professional-looking cut-in line.
