Found out most digital artists only use 3 brushes 90% of the time

I was scrolling through an art stats site last week and saw this survey from 400 pros... turns out they all just stick to a round, a flat, and maybe a texture brush. Got me thinking about how much time I waste hunting for new brush packs when I could just master the basics. Has anyone else noticed their workflow getting simpler the longer they draw?

3 comments

3 Comments

rose_reed1mo ago

Didn't that survey also mention they use like 30 brushes total from big sets, not counting the custom ones they made themselves? I know a few illustrators who swear by having at least 5 go-to brushes for different textures.

wesleyb201mo ago

Yeah, the "30 brushes total from big sets" bit really stuck with me. It's like how people buy big tool kits with a hundred screwdrivers but end up only using the Phillips head and a flathead for everything. We all fall for this idea that more options means better results, when really having a few things you know inside and out is way more useful than drowning in choices.

tara6421mo ago

Honestly I used to think more brushes meant more creativity but this totally changed my mind.