I went into a nail and beauty supplier today to buy a new brush.(I'm doing L&P).

The guy asked me which size I wanted and I told him I'm training and wasn't sure. I had been using a size 8 brush which came in my training kit but found it too small so wanted to try a larger brush.

He insisted that I have a size 16 and also to flatten brush with something that looked like a large set of pliers by pinching the metal barrel part of the brush.
Why is this? He reckons that I cant work with the brush if this is not done.

Do beginners need to use larger brushes? and if what he says is true about flattening the brushes; then wouldn't the manufacturers have made the brushes flat themselves?

why don't you have a chat with your educator? they will know what you've been using ,if its your technique or brush causing problems etc.
its an expensive game trying new brushes - i know

def follow Tracy's advice!

in the beginning we're all like *I should get a bigger brush it'll be easier* whereas in fact you need to imporve your product control and brush control, once you "own" these 2 things you can work with whatever size. (obviously you then pick the one that you like most)

I honnestly never tried nor saw a 16... looks more like a make up or painting brush to me lol

Hi
I find that it depends on your personal prefrence as to which kind of brush you use, be it oval or more flat.
I personally find it esaier to work with a flatter brush, I had an oval brush and trained it into being a flat brush by following one of Nailzoo's amazing videos, that way I didnt need to buy another brush (which can be very expensive)
hth's
Stacy

A size 16 is huge, unless you are wanting to stripe your windows.

Some brushes are crimped to make the hairs lie flatter but you can do this with good training too. Best not to do it yourself with pliers unless you know what you are doing. You can ruin a brush by crimping it incorrectly.

It really doesn't matter whether you start out with a large or small brush. One does not make you a better tech than the other and they all require control.

A larger brush does give you certain benefits over a small one.
Better surface smoothness for easier finishing as it covers more area.
More pressure on the product as the brush is heavier.

If you want a great brush try the No 10 Ultra Sculptor from Creative. It is available form Sweet Squared 08452106060.

Thanks Gigi, great advice as always