How to Clean Chinese Calligraphy Brushes: Water-Saving Method That Keeps Your Sink Clean
How to clean calligraphy brushes? This is a problem many people face. You might have searched online for brush cleaning tips, but most methods waste a lot of water and make a mess in your sink. Today’s article introduces a new way to clean brushes that I hope will help everyone!
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Ever since I started practicing calligraphy, cleaning brushes has been my biggest headache. Properly cleaning brushes after use extends their lifespan, but the cleaning process itself is frustrating.
I used to rinse brushes under the faucet, which took more than ten minutes each time. I had to keep running water while gently squeezing and straightening the brush tip with my hands. After cleaning one brush, my hands and the sink would be splattered with inky water marks. Then I’d have to clean the sink and wash my hands again – such a hassle!
The sink gets dirty every time after cleaning
After countless experiments over several years, I’ve finally discovered a great method:
Fill a drink bottle halfway with water. Put the brush in the bottle, positioning it close to the bottom but not touching it (touching the bottom will damage the brush). Hold it steady with your middle finger and shake it back and forth.
After about ten shakes, the water becomes dirty. Lift the brush tip to the bottle opening and scrape it gently to remove as much inky water as possible. Then pour the dirty water slowly into the drain – your sink stays completely clean!
Repeat this process 4-6 times total, and your brush will be completely clean.
You’ll find that your brush, hands, and sink are all spotless, and you’ve saved a tremendous amount of water.
I’m sharing this great method with fellow calligraphy enthusiasts. When you or your children practice calligraphy and need to clean brushes, give this method a try.
If you found this article helpful, feel free to share it. Qi Ming regularly updates articles about calligraphy and traditional writing supplies. Everyone is welcome to visit often!
Here are some other articles you might find interesting:
Brushes: Top 10 Chinese Calligraphy Brushes: The Ultimate Guide to Selection and Care
Ink: The 5 Best Chinese Ink Brands: Properties, Selection Criteria & Care Guide
Paper: Top 10 Chinese Xuan Paper Brands: Selection Guide & Care Tips
Ink Stones: What are the four famous inkstones and Top Ten Inkstones
