FAQ-brush

Who is Chiyomi Tanaka, and what makes her brushes different?
August 15, 2026

Who is Chiyomi Tanaka, and what makes her brushes different?

Chiyomi Tanaka is a brush craftswoman based in Nara, Japan, who handcrafts each brush herself...
Can I use these brushes with both liquid ink and ground sumi ink?
August 15, 2026

Can I use these brushes with both liquid ink and ground sumi ink?

Yes — our brushes work well with both. Just note that liquid ink and freshly...
How should I clean and store my brush after use?
August 15, 2026

How should I clean and store my brush after use?

Use only water to clean the brush. Since the bristles are made from animal hair,...
How do I prepare a new brush before using it for the first time?
August 15, 2026

How do I prepare a new brush before using it for the first time?

New Japanese brushes arrive stiff, coated in a water-soluble sizing that protects the bristles' shape...
How do I read the size markings on a Japanese calligraphy brush (号, 大, 中, 小)?
August 15, 2026

How do I read the size markings on a Japanese calligraphy brush (号, 大, 中, 小)?

Japanese brushes are traditionally labeled with kanji rather than simple size numbers. 号 (gō) indicates...
What does "kenmo" (mixed-hair) mean, and why do so many brushes combine multiple types of hair?
August 15, 2026

What does "kenmo" (mixed-hair) mean, and why do so many brushes combine multiple types of hair?

Kenmo (兼毛) means "combined hair" — a brush built from two or more hair types...
What's the difference between brushes made from weasel, goat, horse, and raccoon dog (tanuki) hair?
August 15, 2026

What's the difference between brushes made from weasel, goat, horse, and raccoon dog (tanuki) hair?

Each hair type brings a different character to the brush. Weasel hair is soft yet...
Should I choose different brushes for calligraphy versus sumi-e painting?
August 15, 2026

Should I choose different brushes for calligraphy versus sumi-e painting?

Generally yes, though many brushes can do both. Calligraphy brushes (shodō fude) tend to have...
Which brush is best for beginners?
August 15, 2026

Which brush is best for beginners?

According to 🔗Chiyomi Tanaka herself, there is no such thing as a "beginner" or "professional"...