Best Paint Brush for Skirting Boards: 2025 Expert Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Proprietor
Fitting skirting boards is arguably one of the most satisfying parts of second-fix joinery. It frames the room and hides the expansion gap between the floor and the wall. However, I often see good joinery let down by a poor paint finish. Brush marks, loose bristles, and uneven coverage can make even expensive hardwoods look cheap.
In York's older terraced properties, skirting boards are rarely just flat planks. We deal with Ogee, Torus, and bespoke moulded profiles that demand a brush capable of holding paint without dragging. Unlike structural carpentry, where strength is key, finishing joinery is all about the aesthetic detail.
Whether you are oiling a solid Oak board or applying satinwood to primed MDF, the brush you choose matters. In this review, I've selected three brushes that handle the intricacies of skirting boards, suitable for both the professional decorator and the keen DIY homeowner.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "One Brush Does It All"
"Marketing often claims a standard 2-inch brush applies to walls, ceilings, and trim equally well."
Trying to cut in the top edge of a skirting board with a wide wall brush is a recipe for paint on your plaster. You need a dedicated, smaller brush for trim work.
The Spec: "Natural vs Synthetic Bristles"
"Old-school painters swear by natural bristles for oil-based gloss."
Modern synthetic filaments have improved drastically. They hold their shape better in water-based paints (which are now standard for skirting to prevent yellowing) and don't swell up like natural bristles.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
Harris Trade Fine Tip Emulsion & Gloss Paint Brush 1"
Harris
This is a 'Trade' rated brush at a DIY price point. The 1-inch width is narrower than standard wall brushes, making it ideal for the delicate top edge of skirting boards where they meet the wall. The fine-tipped synthetic filaments reduce brush marks significantly.
The Good
- Excellent price for a trade-rated tool
- Fine tips minimise brush streaks on smooth gloss/satin finishes
- No bristle loss, keeping your paint job clean
The Bad
- Too small for painting large, deep skirting boards efficiently
- Handle is standard timber, not ergonomic soft-grip
Installer Tip:
Use this specific brush for the top edge of the skirting and the scribe line at the floor. Don't use it for the main face; you'll be there all day and likely create 'lap marks' where the paint dries too fast.
Priced at £2.34 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonHarris Essentials Walls & Ceilings Paint Brushes, 3 Brush Pack
Harris
For a complete skirting project, you often need variety. This set offers great value, providing a 2-inch brush for the main flat face of the board and smaller sizes for the edges. Whilst labelled 'Essentials', the synthetic bristles work well with modern water-based satinwood paints.
The Good
- Great versatility with three sizes included
- The 2" brush covers deep Victorian skirting boards quickly
- Easy to clean synthetic bristles
The Bad
- Coarser bristles than the Trade range, so watch for brush marks
- Designed primarily for emulsion, so take care with thicker gloss
Installer Tip:
If you are fitting primed MDF skirting or softwood architrave that requires an undercoat, use the larger brushes in this pack for the primer/undercoat stages to save your premium fine-tip brushes for the final top coat.
Priced at £5.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonHarris 21mm Seriously Good Woodwork Gloss Round Brush
Harris
This is the 'secret weapon' for heritage joinery. Many properties in York feature complicated skirting profiles like Ogee or Torus. A flat brush often bridges across the grooves, leaving drips or missed spots. This round 21mm brush follows the curve of the wood perfectly.
The Good
- Round profile allows perfect control on curved mouldings
- Holds a surprising amount of paint for its size
- Excellent for painting intricate architraves without overlap
The Bad
- Requires a bit more practice to use effectively than a flat brush
- Not suitable for large flat areas
Installer Tip:
When painting a moulded profile, don't overload this brush. Use a 'twisting' motion with your fingers as you drag the brush along the detail; this releases the paint evenly into the grooves of the skirting without pooling.
Priced at £3.23 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Should I paint skirting boards before or after fitting?
What is the best paint for skirting boards?
How do I stop paint getting on my carpet?
Is it worth buying expensive brushes for skirting?
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