The Da Vinci Micro Nova Series 170 is a synthetic miniature detail brush, offering precise detail capability at an affordable price. Part of Da Vinci's Nova synthetic range, it uses high-quality synthetic fibres in a compact, miniature-optimised format.
For hobby painters who go through detail brushes regularly — and most miniature painters do — the Micro Nova 170 is a practical choice. It delivers good point retention and control for painting eyes, highlights, and fine detail without the cost of replacing expensive Kolinsky brushes. Many painters keep synthetic detail brushes like the 170 for everyday work and reserve their Kolinsky for the most important pieces.
What makes this brush special
Quality synthetic fibres in a miniature detail format. Good point retention and control for everyday detail work. Affordable enough for regular replacement as tips wear. Part of Da Vinci's well-regarded Nova synthetic range.
Medium compatibility
Acrylic
Best with properly thinned acrylics, especially for detail and glazing.
Miniature Paints
Works well with fluid hobby acrylics for detail, layering and controlled basecoating.
Watercolour
Smooth flow for washes, controlled lines and fine points.
Great for
Everyday detail work on miniatures without risking expensive brushes
Regular replacement detail brush for painters who go through tips
Affordable precision for hobby painting on a budget
Companion to premium sable — synthetics for practice, sable for best work
Technique & use
Detail Work
General Painting
Less ideal for
Matching the flow and feel of premium Kolinsky sable
Very long painting sessions where sable's capacity shines
Painters who only use natural hair
Extreme micro-detail where Kolinsky's natural point is superior
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Units/
Size
Tuft Length
Belly Diameter
Price
Stock
20/0
4.0 mm
0.5 mm
$10.26
In Stock
15/0
4.0 mm
0.55 mm
$10.26
In Stock
10/0
4.5 mm
0.65 mm
$10.09
In Stock
5/0
4.5 mm
0.75 mm
$10.09
In Stock
Brush sizes are not standardised across brands — a Size 1 from one maker may differ from another. These brushes are handcrafted, so individual dimensions may vary by 1–2 mm.
How we measure a brushA visual guide to the measurements shown in the size chart above.
These are the same measurements shown in the size chart above. Brush sizes are not standardised across brands, so use these dimensions when comparing brushes within a series or between manufacturers.
Tuft Length
The visible length of the brush hairs, measured from the ferrule to the tip.
Belly Diameter
The widest point of the brush head. On round brushes, this is the widest part of the belly.
Total Length
The full measurement from the tip of the brush to the end of the handle.
How to care for your brush
Rinse after use, clean with brush soap occasionally. Synthetic fibres are resilient and forgiving. Reshape after washing. Replace when the tip no longer forms a satisfactory point — at this price, replacement is practical.
